ASTM D6426 method for determining fiterability of middle distillate fuel oils
8. Preparation of Apparatus
8.1 Locate the apparatus on a level surface in an area where the temperature is between 15 and 25°C (59 and 77°F).
8.2 Open the case, and assemble the apparatus as shown in Fig. 2. If the Tygon tubing (see 6.1.1.6) is not attached as shown, carry out 8.2.1 to 8.2.2.
8.2.1 Attach one end of the Tygon tubing to the fuel reservoir container (6.1.1.4) and insert the plastic in-line splice coupler (6.1.1.7) into the other end.
8.2.2 Insert the plastic in-line coupler into another piece of Tygon tubing, thread the tubing in the peristaltic pump (see 6.1.1.1), as shown in Fig. 3, and clamp it in place by moving the lever arm counterclockwise.
NOTE 3 - The splice fitting prevents the tubing from being pulled into the pump during operation. This also allows easy replacement of the portion of the tubing that is depressed by the pump rollers. To extend the life of the Tygon tubing, when not in use, leave the clamp open or remove the tubing from the pump.
8.2.3 Insert one end of the horizontal section of the plastic tee coupler (6.1.1.8) into the tubing that is clamped in the pump and attach two other sections of tubing to the other parts of the tee.
8.2.4 Connect the tubing that is connected to the perpendicular part of the tee to the pressure transducer. Insert the hose barbered portion of the Luer-Loc coupler (6.1.1.9) into the other section of tubing that is connected to the in-line part of the tee.
8.3 Attach the power pack to the connector on the top of the case and connect the power pack to an ac power source. Turn the instrument on by depressing the ON switch causing both the POWER and MODE A lights to illuminate.
8.4 Have a labeled FCell filter (see 6.2) ready for use.
8.5 Verification of Apparatus - As required per 4.3, verify apparatus performance by checking that the flow rate and the pressure transducer are within tolerance.
8.5.1 Check the flow rate by performing a purge cycle to eliminate any air from the system. Subsequently, perform a test using a fuel sample without a filter, collecting the sample in a graduate (see 6.3.1). Compare the volume collected with amount displayed. The amount displayed shall be approximately 300 mL, and the amount collected shall be 285 to 315 mL. Adjust the pump speed control, as required.
8.5.2 Check the pressure by inserting a pressure gage (see 6.3.2) at the end of the Tygon tubing where the filter would be installed. Perform a test using air only, and compare the readings when approximately 104 kPa (15 psi) is displayed. If the readings vary more than +/- 7 kPa (1.0 psi), return the apparatus to the manufacturer.
