ASTM D5558 Method for Determination of the Saponification Value of Fats and Oils
3. Apparatus and Reagents
3.1 Erlenmeyer Flasks, Corning alkali resistant, Kimble resistant, or equivalent, 250 or 300 mL.
3.2 Air Condensers, minimum length 650 mm.
3.3 Water Bath or a Hot Plate, with variable heat control.
3.4 Hydrochloric Acid, 0.5 N, accurately standardized.
3.5 Alcoholic Potassium Hydroxide, added to a 2-L flask from 1 to 1.5 L of 95 % ethyl alcohol (U.S.S.D. Formula 3A is permitted) and a few grams (5 to 10 g) of potassium hydroxide. After boiling under a reflux condenser on a water bath for 30 to 60 min, the alcohol shall be distilled and collected. For the preparation of alcoholic potassium hydroxide, 40 g of potassium hydroxide, low in carbonate, shall be dissolved in 1 L of the distilled alcohol, keeping the temperature below 15.5°C (60°F) while the alkali is being dissolved. This solution should remain clear.
