Overcoming the impact of variation on quality control decisions using operating characteristic curves for ASTM D 217 (cone penetration)

This paper will examine and discuss variations on two distinct batch release protocols, which are in use in the grease industry today. Operating characteristic curves constructed for ASTM D 217 as described by Haag in a preceding paper, are used to evaluate each protocol. The strengths, weakness and consequences of each will be discussed from a practical perspective.