Schmierpunkt

Schmierpunkt, also known as a "grease spot" or "grease point," is a term used in the field of tribology, which is the study of friction, lubrication, and wear. It refers to the specific point on a lubricant's viscosity-temperature curve where the lubricant transitions from a Newtonian fluid to a non-Newtonian fluid. At this point, the lubricant's viscosity begins to decrease significantly with increasing temperature, which is crucial for its performance under high-temperature conditions.

The Schmierpunkt is an important parameter in the selection and application of lubricants, particularly in high-temperature environments such as engine oils, gear oils, and hydraulic fluids. The temperature at which the Schmierpunkt occurs is often referred to as the "Schmierpunkt temperature" or "grease point temperature." Lubricants with a higher Schmierpunkt temperature are better suited for applications where high temperatures are expected.

The Schmierpunkt is determined through various tests, including the High-Temperature High-Shear (HTHS) viscosity test and the High-Temperature Low-Shear (HTLS) viscosity test. These tests help engineers and lubricant manufacturers understand the lubricant's behavior under different temperature and shear conditions, ensuring optimal performance and longevity of mechanical systems.