MIL-DTL-197L
3.3.4.1 Contamination levels for oils. When measured in accordance with method
3009.3 (microscopic) of FED-STD-791 or equivalent government-approved method, the number
of solid contaminant particles in the lubricating oil shall not exceed the following limits:
a. Oil for general purpose, precision and large bearings:
Count per 100 milliliters (ml)
Particle size range (micrometers (µm))
5 to 15
1785
> 15 to 25
265
> 25 to 50
78
> 50 to 100
11
> 100
0
b. Oil for instrument and instrument precision bearings:
Count per 100 ml
Particle size range (µm)
5 to 15
150
> 15 to 25
45
> 25 to 50
23
> 50 to 100
10
> 100
0
3.3.4.2 Contamination levels for grease. Grease for general purpose, precision, and large
bearings shall be tested in accordance with FED-STD-791, method 3005.4; no more than 1000
particles per cubic centimeter (cm3) of 25 µm or larger in size and no particles larger than 75 µm
shall be allowed. For instrument and instrument precision bearing greases, the contamination
requirements of MIL-G-81937 shall apply.
a. Grease for general purpose, precision, and large bearings:
Count per cm 3
Particle size range (µm)
25 to 75
1000 maximum
> 75
0
b. Grease for instrument and instrument precision bearings:
Count per cm 3
Particle size range (µm)
10 to 35
1000 maximum
> 35
0
c. The greases shall not contain dirt, crystals, lumps, or particles of gelling agent
exceeding the limits. The particle size shall be measured along with the largest dimension of the
particle.
3.3.4.3 Receiving inspection test. No receiving inspection tests are necessary on
packaged lubricants provided the containers are intact and markings adequately identify the
lubricant(s).
11
For Parts Inquires call Parts Hangar, Inc (727) 493-0744
© Copyright 2015 Integrated Publishing, Inc.
A Service Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business