ASTM D1321 for needle penetration of petroleum waxes
ASTM D1321 standard test method for needle penetration of petroleum waxes
1. Scope
1.1 This test method covers the empirical estimation of the consistency of waxes derived from petroleum by measurement of the extent of penetration of a standard needle. This test method is applicable to waxes having a penetration of not greater than 250.
NOTE 1 - This test method is similar to the needle method for determining the penetration of bituminous material, Test Method D5. Cone methods applicable to greases and to petrolatum are described in Test Methods D217 and Test Method D937, respectively.
1.2 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values given in parentheses are for information only.
1.3 This standard 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. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:
D5 Test Method for Penetration of Bituminous Materials
D87 Test Method for Melting Point of Petroleum Wax (Cooling Curve)
D217 Test Methods for Cone Penetration of Lubricating Grease
D937 Test Method for Cone Penetration of Petrolatum
D938 Test Method for Congealing Point of Petroleum Waxes, Including Petrolatum
E1 Specification for ASTM Liquid-in-Glass Thermometers
3. Terminology
3.1 Definitions:
3.1.1 penetration, n, of petroleum wax - the depth in tenths of a millimetre to which a standard needle penetrates into the wax under defined conditions.
3.1.1.1 Discussion - As an example, a penetration reading of 85 from the indicator scale corresponds to a penetration depth of 8.5 mm.
3.1.2 penetrometer, n-an instrument that measures the consistency or hardness of semiliquid to semisolid materials by measuring the depth to which a specified cone or needle under a given force falls into the material.
3.1.2.1 Discussion - In this test method, a standard penetrometer needle (6.3) is used to determine the hardness of petroleum wax. The penetration force is determined by the total mass (100 g) of the needle, plunger, and 50 g weight.
4. Summary of Test Method
4.1 The sample is heated to at least 17°C (30°F) above its expected congealing point or melting point, poured into a container, and then air cooled under controlled conditions. The sample then is conditioned at test temperature in a water bath. Penetration is measured with a penetrometer, which applies a standard needle to the sample for 5 s under a load of 100 g.
5. Significance and Use
5.1 Petroleum waxes differ in hardness. Needle penetration is a measurement of hardness. Hardness may have a significant effect upon other physical properties.
