Aging Characteristics of Silicone Greases in Assembled Premolded Separable Connectors

A test method was developed for evaluating silicone greases for use with premolded separable connectors. The method involves 90°C aging of 15W loadbreak elbow-bushing insert combinations, making periodic measurements of the disassembly force, and observing any physical changes in the greases. Disassembly forces initially rise rapidly, then more slowly and may decrease somewhat thereafter. Most do not exceed a maximum allowable limit of 200 lbs. Physical changes (oil separation, caking) are more indicative of grease failure. Selection of a grease should be based on both disassembly force and physical observation of samples aged for a minimum of one year.