ASTM D5950 Test Method for Pour Point of Petroleum Products (Automatic Tilt Method)
8. Sampling
8.1 Obtain a sample in accordance with Practice D4057 or Practice D4177.
8.2 Samples of very viscous materials can be warmed until they are reasonably fluid before they are transferred; however, no sample shall be heated more than is absolutely necessary. The sample shall not be heated and transferred into the test specimen jar unless its temperature is 70°C or lower.
NOTE 4 - In the event the sample has been heated above this temperature, allow the sample to cool until its temperature is at least 70°C before transferring.
9. Preparation of Apparatus
9.1 Prepare the instrument for operation in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
9.2 Clean and dry the test head and test jar using suitable solvents as prescribed by the manufacturer.
9.3 Adjust the set-point of the recirculating cooler to the appropriate temperature to cool the jackets to the required temperatures (see Table 1).
NOTE 5 - For most applications the recirculating cooler will be set at its lowest operating temperature.
10. Calibration and Standardization
10.1 Ensure that all of the manufacturer's instructions for calibrating, checking, and operating the apparatus are followed.
10.1.1 A test head simulator, Part No. V02306, is used to calibrate the equipment. The test head simulator uses precision resistors in place of the PT 100 temperature probe to calibrate the jacket and specimen temperature electronics. Follow the manufacturer's calibration instructions.
10.2 A sample with a well documented pour point can be used to verify performance of the apparatus. Alternatively, a sample which has been extensively tested in a pour point interlaboratory study can be used.
