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An American National Standard

Designation: D 5619 – 9400

Standard Test Method for

Comparing Metal Removal Fluids Using the Tapping Torque
Test Machine1
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D 5619; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (e) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.

1. Scope
1.1 This test method covers a laboratory technique to evaluate the relative performance of metal removal fluids using a
non-matrix test protocol using the tapping torque test machine.
1.2 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. Because the equipment used in this test method is available only
in inch-pound units, SI units are omitted when referring to the equipment and the test pieces.
1.3 This test method does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility
of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory
limitations prior to use.
2. Terminology
2.1 DescriptionDefinitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
2.1.1 build-up edge—a triangular deposit that forms adjacent to the cutting edge on the face of the tool in a metalworking
operation.
2.1.1.1 Discussion—The high contact pressure between the cutting edge of the tap and the specimen material results in a high
temperature. The high temperature, the wear debris, the high contact pressure, and some of the constituents of the cutting fluid
combine at the cutting edge and form a triangular deposit, referred to as a built-up edge (BUE). The BUE is sustained by the chip
curl as it is passed over, and as the BUE grows, it is abraded by the rubbing of the chip curl. Since the BUE is located exactly
where the curl is generated, it contributes to the size of the curl; the larger the BUE, the larger the diameter of the chip curl. A
small chip curl will flow smoothly up the flute of the tap and will not affect the torque. However, a large curl will drag and jam
in the flute and will contribute to the tapping torque.
If a new tap is utilized, it is necessary to run several tests to run-in the tap. This process prepares the cutting edge to receive
a characteristic BUE, depending on which cutting fluid is utilized.
If a cutting fluid is changed to another cutting fluid during a test sequence, it is necessary to discard the results from at least
the first test of the new fluid since the previous BUE must be abraded or modified with the chemistry of the new fluid to form its
own characteristic BUE.
The ideal cutting fluid forms a small, stable BUE that assists in the formation of a small curl.
3. Summary of Test Method
3.1 The torque required to tap a thread in a blank specimen nut while lubricated with a metal removal fluid is measured and
compared with the torque required to tap a thread in a blank specimen nut while lubricated with a reference fluid. See Fig. 1. The
ratio of the average torque values of the reference oil to the metal removal fluid tested, when using the same tap, is expressed as
the percent efficiency of the fluid. The efficiency of two or more fluids can be compared when the average torque values of the
reference fluid on different taps are considered to be statistically equivalent.
4. Significance and Use
4.1 The procedures described in this test method can be used to predict more accurately the lubricating properties of a metal
removal fluid than previously available laboratory scale tests.
4.2 This test method is designed to allow flexibility in the selection of test specimen metal composition, tap alloy or coatings,
and machining speeds.

1
This method is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D-2 D02 on Petroleum Products and Lubricants and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee D02.L0.01
on Metal Removal Fluids and Lubricants.
Current edition approved Oct. 15, 1994. Nov. 10, 2000. Published December 2000. Originally published as D 5619 – 94. Last previous edition D 5619 – 94.

Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959, United States.

1
 D 5619 – 9400

FIG. 1 Tapping Torque Curve (insets show position of tap in specimen blank)

4.3 Comparison between various types of fluids can be made, including cutting oils, soluble oils, semi-synthetics, or water
soluble synthetics.
5. Apparatus
5.1 Test Machine, the tapping torque test machine2 as illustrated in Fig. 2 and Fig. 3.
5.2 Plastic Squeeze Bottle, 100 mL or larger, Nalgene or its equivalent.
5.3 GO/NO GO Wire Plug Gage2, 0.3360/0.3363 in.
5.4 Drying Oven, controllable to 52 6 3°C (125 6 5°F).
6. Reagents and Materials
6.1 Cutting Nut Blanks, inside diameter of 0.33615 6 0.00015 in., material selected by the user of the test method. 1215 steel

2
This test method was conducted using apparatus and materials available from Falex Corp., 1020 Airpark Dr., Sugar Grove, IL 60554.

FIG. 2 Falex Tapping Torque Test Machine

2
 D 5619 – 9400

FIG. 3 Exploded View of Specimen Alignment

alloy is recommended to be used for qualifying taps.

6.2 Cutting Tap, 10 by 1.5 mm.
6.3 Reference Fluid, a stable fluid that produces minimal build-up edge on tap and yields repeatable test results.
NOTE 1—Any lubricant can be used as the reference fluid. However, it is recommended that the reference fluid not contain additives that will react
with metal, such as sulfur, chlorine, or phosphorus containing EP additives, as these could react with the tap during the tap qualification and potentially
bias the results of the test fluid. An ISO Grade 22 (90–100 SUS) mineral oil containing approximately 5 to 6 % lard has been found to be an effective
reference fluid.
6.4 Solvent, safe, nonfilming, nonchlorinated.
NOTE 2—Each user should select solvents that can meet applicable safety standards and still thoroughly clean the test parts. Technical grade Naptha
or Stoddard Solvent and reagent grade acetone have been found satisfactory.

7. Preparation of Samples
7.1 For cutting oils and the reference fluid, transfer a minimum of 100 mL of the fluid to be tested to a clean plastic squeeze
bottle.
7.2 For water soluble fluids, prepare a minimum of 100 mL of diluted fluid to be tested from the sample concentrate with water
(make a note of concentration and water quality; for example, tap, deionized, hardness, etc.) to the selected concentration and
transfer to a plastic squeeze bottle.

8. Preparation of Test Nut Blanks and Taps

8.1 Clean taps and nut blanks in a sonic cleaner using solvent selected in 6.3 for at least 15 min. Oven dry at 52 6 3°C
(125 6 5°F). Store in a desiccator.
NOTE 3—The use of technical grade naphtha or Stoddard Solvent followed by two rinses with reagent grade acetone and air drying has been found
satisfactory.
NOTE 4—Taps should be checked carefully for nicks or any residual metal preservative before they are used. If any nicks are detected, the tap should
be discarded. If residual metal preservative is evident, reclean as in 8.1. A soft brush, such as a toothbrush, can be used to aid in removing any residue.
A test tube brush may aid in removing metal preservatives from within the test nut blanks.
8.2 Before using nut blanks, the internal hole diameter should be checked with the GO/NO GO wire plug gage in 5.3. Discard
any specimen nuts that are outside of this range.

9. Preparation of Apparatus
9.1 Zero the chart recorder according to the equipment manufacturer’s instructions.
9.2 Zero the torque indicator on the test machine.
NOTE 5—When setting zeros (9.1 and 9.2) be sure to turn the specimen turntable counterclockwise, away from the load cell, to remove any preload
so that the meters can be zeroed properly.

3
 D 5619 – 9400
9.3 Calibrate the torque by placing the average torque integrator in the CALB or calibration position. Attach the calibrator
pulley to the lower plate of the test machine according to the manufacturer’s directions. Attach cable by feeding the end of the cable
under the torque arm and securing it in the slotted pin under the specimen table at the 6 o’clock position. Calibrate the average
torque meter by hanging a known weight on the hook at the end of the cable. If the torque meter readout does not agree with the
torque reading expected with the weight on the hook, adjust the span. Consult the manufacturer’s instruction manual for further
details.
9.4 Place average torque integrator to the average position.
9.5 Set torque trigger point to 0.5 N·m.
NOTE 6—When using nut blanks of softer materials such as aluminum, a lower torque trigger point of 0.2 N·m should be used.
9.6 Select torque averaging initial and final values according to the equipment manufacturer’s instructions, depending on the
torque curve generated during test run and the desired area for evaluation.
NOTE 7—Two hundred sixty and 560 revolutions times 60, or that equivalent to 3 1⁄2 to 9 1⁄3 revolutions has been found to give effective data over the
full working range of the tap in the nut blank.

10. Cutting Tap Qualification

10.1 Set test machine to desired speed.
NOTE 8—Test cutting speed is dependent on nut blank material. Consult a machinist’s handbook for recommended cutting speeds; 400 rpm is
recommended for 1215 steel.
10.2 Select a new tap and install it in the test equipment according to the equipment manufacturer’s instructions.
10.3 Install a clean, unused nut blank on the table of the test machine and secure to a torque of 25 in-lb according to the
manufacturer’s instructions.
10.4 Lower pilot guide plug from center of nut blank to the sealing position. Fill nut blank and coat tap with reference fluid
chosen in 6.4.
NOTE 9—A special tool is supplied with the test equipment to effect the correct distance. The sealing position allows for the entire nut blank cavity
to be filled with the test fluid specimen.
10.5 Start test run.
10.6 Apply a continuous stream of reference fluid to tap throughout the test run using a squeeze bottle in 5.2.
10.7 After the test run is complete, record the average torque value.
10.8 Remove the used nut blank and clean the tap using sufficient solvents, selected in 6.3, and compressed air to remove test
fluid, solvent, and metal chips. Leave tap on test machine during this cleaning procedure.
NOTE 10—Rinse with solvent chosen in 6.3 or as listed in Note 3.
10.9 Inspect tap for evidence of built-up edge. If built up edge exists, discard tap and begin from 10.2 using a reference fluid
that minimizes the formation of built-up edge. Build-up edge can cause variability in test results.
10.10 Repeat 10.3 to 10.9 five times. Determine the arithmetic mean and standard deviation of the five torque values. If the
standard deviation is within 62 % of the mean value, the tap is acceptable as a reference tap. Save this tap.
10.11 Repeat 10.2 to 10.10 with a clean, new tap.
10.12 Determine the arithmetic mean and standard deviation of the torque values. If the standard deviation of the torque values
is within6 2 % of the mean and the difference of the means between this tap and the reference tap in 9 10.10 is within 62 %, then
this is an acceptable tap for use in testing; otherwise, discard this tap and repeat 10.11.
NOTE 11—The most efficient procedure is to run several taps using the reference fluid and then to sort these into qualified groups. This will also
minimize the number of taps discarded.

11. Procedure
11.1 Install a clean, unused nut blank on the table of the test machine and secure to a torque of 25 in.lb, according to the
manufacturer’s instructions.
11.2 Lower the pilot guide plug from the center of the nut blank to the sealing position. Fill the nut blank and coat the tap with
test fluid.
11.3 Start the test run.
11.4 Apply a continuous stream of test fluid to the tap throughout the test run using a squeeze bottle in 5.2.
11.5 After the test run is completed, record the average torque value.
11.6 Remove the used nut blank and clean the tap as in 10.8.
11.7 Inspect the tap for evidence of built-up edge. If built-up edge exists, note this in test results.
11.8 Repeat 11.1-11.7 five times.
12. Calculation
12.1 Calculate the mean torque value for the five test runs for the reference fluid.

4
 D 5619 – 9400
12.2 Calculate the mean torque value for the last three test runs for the test fluid, discarding the first two runs as there is potential
variability in results due to carryover effects from the previously run fluid.
12.3 Calculate the percent efficiency of the test fluid as follows:
% Efficiency 5 ~A/B! 3 100 (1)

where:
A = mean torque of the reference oil, and
B = mean torque of the test fluid.
12.4 Calculate the relative efficiency as follows:
% relative efficiency 5 ~efficiency of Fluid A/efficiency of Fluid B 3 100 (2)

13. Report
13.1 Report the following information:
13.1.1 The conditions used in the test: Tap type (for example, high speed steel, carbide, coated, etc.), nut blank material, test
speed, and fluid concentration and water hardness, when applicable.
13.1.2 Record the average torque of the reference oil and the average torque of the test fluid.
13.1.3 Record the percent efficiency and percent relative efficiency, noting any built-up edge.

14. Precision and Bias

14.1 Precision:
14.1.1 The precision and bias of the measurements obtained with this test procedure will depend upon strict adherence to the
stated procedure.
14.1.2 The consistency of agreement in repeated tests on the same test fluid will depend upon nut blank material type,
homogeneity, and strict adherence to machining tolerances as listed in 6.1; machine and material interaction; chemical or physical
reaction between cutting tap and specimen nut blank; test parameters selected and close observation of the test by a competent test
machine operator.
14.1.3 Materials used for the specimen nut blanks will have a major influence on the repeatability of test results. Generally, the
variance in repeatability in this test method will parallel the field condition of similar operations using the given material. Some
materials tested can have a wide variance in test results but also show a wide difference in comparative efficiencies. On the other
hand, materials can show good repeatability but little differentiation in efficiencies. Therefore, the specimen nut blank material
should be chosen to be representative of the material that will be in contact with the test fluids representing the field condition.
14.1.4 Selection of test rotational speed will influence precision of test data generated. Materials selected for use as specimen
nut blanks may require modification to the test speed. Operating the equipment at test speeds that approximate those recommended
for use in field applications will provide more consistent results. The operator should consult a machinist’s handbook or another
reference to obtain preferred cutting test speeds.
14.1.5 Table 1 gives representative data and typical results for three types of metalworking fluids against 1215 steel and three
different metal cutting nut blanks, using a high speed tool steel 10 by 1.5 mm cutting tap.
14.2 Bias:
14.2.1 Since there is no accepted reference material suitable for determining the bias for the procedure in Test Method D 5619
for measuring percent efficiency, bias has not been determined.

15. Keywords
15.1 cutting; metal removal fluids; metalworking; tapping; tapping torque

5
 D 5619 – 9400
TABLE 1 Fluid Evaluation by Nonmatrix Tapping Torque Method [Torque in Newton Metres (N·m)]
Tap Number Tap 194 Tap 2 188 Tap 173 Tap 4 163 Tap 5 28 Tap 36 Tap 7 39
Tap Break-inA 4.42 4.40 4.42 4.47 4.40 4.59
Tap break-inA 5.768 5.686 6.161 6.243 5.722 5.840 5.836
4.62 4.13 4.40 4.47 4.62 4.40
5.616 5.673 6.138 6.191 6.000 5.722 5.875
4.64 4.23 4.40 4.45 4.66 4.47
5.785 5.792 6.226 6.256 5.908 5.862 5.876
4.50 4.23 4.13 4.37 4.40 4.62
5.723 5.862 6.167 6.176 5.925 5.834 5.831
4.42 4.42 4.52 4.64
5.741 5.898 6.111 6.295 5.980 5.845 5.808
Arithmetic Mean

Arithmetic mean X̄ 4.34 4.25 4.35 4.45 4.52 4.54

Arithmetic mean X̄ 5.727 5.782 6.161 6.232 5.907 5.821 5.845
Standard Deviation Data

S 0.1030 0.1110 0.1256 0.0406 0.1227 0.1045

Standard deviation data S 0.066 0.101 0.043 0.049 0.11 0.056 0.030
Standard Deviation Mean Sx 0.0515 0.0554 0.0559 0.0182 0.0549 0.0467
Standard deviation mean Sx 0.0296 0.0453 0.0191 0.0218 0.0493 0.0251 0.0132
95 % Confidence Limit, Mean tSx 0.1212 0.1288 0.1191 0.0389 0.1171 0.0994
95 % confidence limit, Mean tSx 0.0823 0.1258 0.0530 0.0604 0.1367 0.0696 0.0368
Fluid Identification Fluid D Fluid C Fluid F

Fluid identificationB Fluid B Fluid A Fluid C Fluid D Fluid E Fluid G Fluid H

Fluid identificationB Fluid B Fluid A Fluid C Fluid D Fluid E Fluid F Fluid G
Fluid Type Reference Oil Synthetic Soluble O Semi-synthet Synthet Synthet Polymeric
il ic ic ic Synthetic
Fluid type semi- semi- soluble soluble straight straight straight
synthetic synthetic oil oil oil oil oil
4.45 4.62 4.30 4.86 4.64 4.54 4.93

4.62 4.50 4.40 4.88 5.13 4.62 5.03

Specimen nut metalB 390 Cast 390 Cast 4140 4140 316 316 316
aluminum aluminum steel steel stainless stainless stainless
4.50 4.83 4.52 5.00 5.69 4.50 5.25

4.62 4.64 4.52 6.32B 6.80 4.74 5.73

Speed, rpm 400 400 400 400 400 400 400
4.47 4.71 4.30 7.78B Tap bound 4.62 5.47
Fluid concentration 5% 5% 7% 7% 100 % 100 % 100 %
4.62 4.62 4.52 9.33B Test 4.66 5.90
terminated

4.50 4.54 4.40 6.10 4.93 5.37

Test data 2.585 2.913 13.506 13.490 3.461 4.214 4.183
4.64 4.62 4.40 10.13B 5.32 5.76
3.347 3.270 13.019 13.812 4.016 7.293 5.416
4.54 4.40 Tap bound 5.05
2.834 3.284 13.419 14.908 4.223 6.731 5.432
4.74 Test terminated 5.05
2.913 3.387 13.438 15.235 4.301 6.730 5.546
Arithmetic 3.034 13.367 15.687 4.700 7.386 5.445
Mean
2.812 3.034 13.367 15.687 4.700 7.386 5.445

Arithmetic mean X̄ 4.54 4.62 4.45 5.20 5.56 4.81 5.44

Arithmetic mean X̄ 2.898 3.177 13.350 14.626 4.140 6.471 5.204
Standard Deviation Data

Standard deviation data S 0.0797 0.1016 0.1302 0.595 0.931 0.272 0.352
Standard deviation data S 0.2790 0.1964 0.1915 0.9393 0.4535 1.2982 0.5732
Standard Deviation Mean Sx 0.0282 0.0338 0.0413 0.296 0.467 0.086 0.124
Standard deviation mean Sx 0.1248 0.0878 0.0856 0.4201 0.2028 0.5806 0.2564
95 % Confidence Limit, Mean tSx 0.0535 0.0629 0.0770 0.697 1.093 0.156 0.236
95 % confidence limit, Mean tSx 0.3463 0.2439 0.2377 1.1661 0.5631 1.6117 0.7117
Coefficient of Variation SxX3 100 0.6 0.7 0.9 5.7 8.4 1.8 2.3
Coefficient of variation (Sx)/( X̄ 3 100 4.30 2.76 0.64 2.87 4.90 8.97 4.93
Percent Efficiency

Percent efficiency 100.0 % 98.3 % 93.3 % 83.6 % 80.0 % 94.0 % 83.5 %

Percent efficiency 197.60 % 182.00 % 46.15 % 42.61 % 142.70 % 89.96 % 112.30 %
95 % Confidence Limits 61.2 % 61.3 % 61.6 % 611.2 % 615.7 % 63.1 % 63.6 %
95 % confidence limits 61.2 % 61.3 % 61.6 % 611.2 % 615.7 % 63.1 % 63.6 %
% Relative efficiencyB 100 % 92.11 % 100 % 92.33 % 100 % 63.04 % 78.70 %
A
FAll taps are qualified D wa using 1215 steel specimen nuts at 400 rpm tapping speed f. A norn-Ep neallt oil wap brs used ak-ins the rueferensce oil.
B
BuThe performance comparilson of t-wo flup eidgs can be evi made on t. Dhe same
6 meta wl if the taps are promperly qualittfied fr. For example, Fluids A and B were
both run on 390 cast aluminum, usticng talps 188 anad 194 respectively. These taps meet the requirements to be“ qualified”.
 D 5619 – 9400

ANNEX

(Mandatory Information)

A1. PRECAUTIONARY STATEMENTS

A1.1 Acetone
A1.1.1 Warning—Acetone is extremely flammable. Vapors may cause flash fire.
A1.1.2 Keep away from heat, sparks, and open flame.
A1.1.3 Keep container closed.
A1.1.4 Use with adequate ventilation.
A1.1.5 Vapors may spread long distances and ignite explosively.
A1.1.6 Avoid buildup of vapors and eliminate all sources of ignition, especially nonexplosion proof electrical apparatus and
heaters.
A1.1.7 Avoid prolonged breathing of vapor or spray mist.
A1.1.8 Avoid contact with eyes and skin.
A1.2 Stoddard Solvent, Naphtha
A1.2.1 Vapors are harmful if inhaled. Vapors may cause flash fire.
A1.2.2 Vapors are harmful if absorbed through the skin.
A1.2.3 Keep away from heat, sparks, and open flame.
A1.2.4 Keep container closed.
A1.2.5 Use with adequate ventilation.
A1.2.6 Vapors may spread long distances and ignite explosively.
A1.2.7 Avoid buildup of vapors and eliminate all sources of ignition, especially nonexplosion proof electrical apparatus and
heaters.
A1.2.8 Avoid prolonged breathing of vapor or spray mist.
A1.2.9 Avoid contact with eyes and skin.

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