ASTM D4860 Standard Test Method for Free Water and Particulate Contamination in Mid-Distillate Fuels (Clear and Bright Numerical Rating)
1. Scope
1.1 This test method provides a rapid, portable means for field and laboratory use to inspect visually for particulate matter and numerically rate free water in aviation turbine and distillate fuels.
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. For specific hazard statements, see Note 6 and Annex A1.
2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:
D1500 Test Method for ASTM Color of Petroleum Products (ASTM Color Scale)
D1744 Test Method for Water in Liquid Petroleum Products by Karl Fischer Reagent
D2276 Test Method for Particulate Contaminant in Aviation Fuel by Line Sampling
D2709 Test Method for Water and Sediment in Middle Distillate Fuels by Centrifuge
D4057 Practice for Manual Sampling of Petroleum and Petroleum Products
D4176 Test Method for Free Water and Particulate Contamination in Distillate Fuels (Visual Inspection Procedures)
3. Terminology
3.1 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
3.1.1 free water - water in excess of that soluble in the fuel at the temperature of the test and appearing in the fuel as a haze or cloudiness, or as droplets.
3.1.2 solid particulates - small solid or semi-solid particles, sometimes referred to as silt or sediment, present in fuel as a result of contamination by air-blown dusts, corrosion by-products, fuel instability, or protective-coating deterioration.
3.1.3 clear-and-bright (also termed clean-and-bright) - a condition in which the fuel contains no visible water drops or particulates and is free of haze or cloudiness.
3.1.4 Micro-Separometer clear-and-bright (MSEP-C&B) - a numerical rating indicating the presence and ease of removal of free water and particulate contamination by filtration.
