ASTM D6468 Test Method for High Temperature Stability of Distillate Fuels
1. Scope
1.1 This test method covers relative stability of middle distillate fuels under high temperature aging conditions with limited air exposure. This test method is suitable for all No. 1 and No. 2 grades in Specifications D396, D975, D2880, and D3699 and for grades DMX and DMA in Specification D2069. It is also suitable for similar fuels meeting other specifications.
1.2 This test method is not suitable for fuels whose flash point, as determined by Test Methods D56, D93, or D3828, is less than 38°C. This test method is not suitable for fuels containing residual oil.
1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard.
1.4 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:
D56 Test Method for Flash Point by Tag Closed Tester
D93 Test Methods for Flash Point by Pensky-Martens Closed Cup Tester
D396 Specification for Fuel Oils
D975 Specification for Diesel Fuel Oils
D1500 Test Method for ASTM Color of Petroleum Products (ASTM Color Scale)
D2069 Specification for Marine Fuels
D2274 Test Method for Oxidation Stability of Distillate Fuel Oil (Accelerated Method)
D2880 Specification for Gas Turbine Fuel Oils
D3699 Specification for Kerosine
D3828 Test Methods for Flash Point by Small Scale Closed Tester
D4057 Practice for Manual Sampling of Petroleum and Petroleum Products
D4625 Test Method for Distillate Fuel Storage Stability at 43°C
D5452 Test Method for Particulate Contamination in Aviation Fuels by Laboratory Filtration
3. Terminology
3.1 Definitions ofTerms Specific to This Standard:
3.1.1 adherent insolubles - material that is produced in the course of stressing distillate fuel and that adheres to the glassware after fuel has been flushed from the system.
3.1.2 filterable insolubles - material that is produced in the course of stressing distillate fuel and that is capable of being removed from the fuel by filtration.
3.1.3 inherent stability - the resistance to change when exposed to air, but in the absence of other environmental factors such as water, reactive metal surfaces, and dirt.
3.1.4 storage stability - the resistance of fuel to formation of degradation products when stored at ambient temperatures.
3.1.5 thermal stability - the resistance of fuel to formation of degradation products when thermally stressed.
