Originally Posted by apollo18
my real question is that why do we take the cold flow test with a grain of salt? is it not an important factor?
i know of no one doing such a thing, but here is some background info on three cold temp tests:
Cold Cranking Simulator Apparent Viscosity (ASTM- D-2602)
Viscosities that are reported using the kinematic viscosity glass capillary test method do not adequately represent how a motor oils performs under cold cranking conditions. Therefore the Cold Cranking Simulator (CCS) test was developed in order to predict the cold cranking properties of oils used in automotive and truck crankcases. A 5 ml sample of oil is placed in the shear zone of the CCS test machine at room temperature. The shear zone consists of a rotor and stator. Coolant then begins to flow in order to drop the temperature of the oil. After three minutes, the engine is run for one minute before the machines rotor speed is read.
The CCS viscosity is determined in centipoises (cP) by referencing the speed-readings obtained with a special calibration curve determined by standard reference oils. The resultant viscosity is called the apparent viscosity at low temperature. This test is extremely useful in predicting engine-cranking viscosities at specified low temperature resistance and how easily an engine will start in cold temperatures.
Borderline Pumping Temperature (ASTM D-3829)
The borderline pumping temperature is the lowest temperature at which motor oil can be continuously and adequately supplied to the critical components of an internal combustion engine. In order to start an engine in cold temperatures, certain minimum cranking speeds are required. If a motor oil exists with a viscosity that is so high that the engine is not capable of turning over fast enough, it will not start. This is the primary reason oil and automotive manufacturers specify specific oil grades in specific ambient temperatures and batteries with adequate Cold Cranking Amperage (CCA).
and
Quote
"...To evaluate the ability of lubricants to flow under lowâ€temperature conditions, a number of test methods have been developed, from the simple pourâ€point test (ASTM Dâ€97), to very sophisticated tests such as the MRV TPâ€1 (ASTM Dâ€4864). In the early 1980s, a new technique, using the scanning Brookfield viscometer (ASTM Dâ€5133), was developed. This method has progressively gained acceptance by industry and is now part of the ILSAC GFâ€2 specification. The scanning Brookfield technique provides a new approach to continuous measurement of the viscosity of engine lubricants at very low shear rates, with decreasing temperature. It is said to be unique in its ability to identify oils which develop gel structures at low temperature..."
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/pdf/10.1002/tt.3020060105