Overview - ISO/TS 17536-2:2017 (Laboratory test method)
ISO/TS 17536-2:2017 specifies a standardized laboratory test method for evaluating blowby oil aerosol separators and filtering devices used with internal combustion engines. It defines repeatable gravimetric separation efficiency and system pressure tests for both open and closed crankcase ventilation (PCV/CCV) systems. The specification limits gravimetric efficiency reporting to 0 %–99 % (efficiencies >99 % are difficult to measure reliably). Filter life is not assessed by this test method. The procedure applies to devices with a defined tubular inlet, outlet and drain; devices without those connections are covered by Annex A.
Key topics and technical requirements
- Test scope and limits
- Laboratory gravimetric efficiency and pressure-loss measurements for aerosol separators.
- Efficiency reporting limited to 0–99 %; filter life not evaluated.
- Standard conditions
- Reference: 20 °C, 0 % RH, 101.3 kPa. Airflow, pressure and differential pressure are corrected to these conditions.
- Test temperatures
- Efficiency tests: Condition A - 80 °C ±3 °C or Condition B - 23 °C ±5 °C (document which was used).
- Pressure loss and pressure-control tests: 23 °C ±5 °C.
- Test sequence and measurements
- Required tests: pressure loss, gravimetric efficiency (new and conditioned), crankcase pressure control (if regulator present), and drain interval (when applicable).
- Differential pressure and airflow measured at multiple, equally spaced flow rates and corrected to standard conditions (Annex E).
- Aerosol challenge and generator validation
- Test oil selected so the median mass particle size (50 % cumulative mass) is between >0.85 µm and <0.90 µm (see Annex B for mass distribution).
- Aerosol generator must be validated for stable delivery (delivery rate within ±5 % over the test period; sustained >30 minutes).
- Test equipment and setup
- Use of upstream/downstream wall flow traps, inlet/outlet piezometer tubes, differential manometer, flow control with ≥2 Hz refresh, grounding to reduce static, and blower/exhauster as required (Annex D).
Practical applications
- Performance verification of oil mist/aerosol separators for engine crankcase ventilation.
- Comparative laboratory benchmarking of separator designs for OEMs and suppliers.
- Development and R&D: optimize separator geometry, pressure regulators and drain strategies.
- Component qualification for vehicle integration where crankcase pressure control and low oil carryover are required.
- Test labs and quality assurance groups validating supplier claims or performing batch checks.
Who should use this standard
- Automotive OEMs and powertrain engineers
- Separator and filtration component manufacturers
- Independent test laboratories and certification bodies
- R&D teams working on PCV/CCV systems, turbocharged engine intake recirculation, and emission control
Related standards
- ISO 17536-1:2015 - Road vehicles - Aerosol separator performance test - Part 1: General (normative reference for definitions, measurement accuracy and related requirements).
Keywords: ISO/TS 17536-2, aerosol separator test, gravimetric efficiency, crankcase ventilation, pressure loss test, laboratory test method, blowby oil aerosol, PCV/CCV testing.