ASTM D6892 Test Method for Pour Point of Petroleum Products (Robotic Tilt Method)
6. Apparatus
6.1 Automatic Apparatus - The automatic pour point apparatus described in this test method (see Fig. 2) consists of a microprocessor controlled measuring unit that is capable of heating the specimen to programmed temperatures, cooling the specimen according to programmed cooling profiles, mechanically manipulating the test jar according to the programmed test procedure, while optically observing the surface of the specimen for movement, using a camera system mounted on top of the specimen test jar and recording the temperature of the specimen. The apparatus shall be equipped with a user interface, cooling/heating block assembly with cylindrical jacket with an inside diameter of 44.2 to 45.8 mm, and about 115 mm in depth to accept the test jar) robotic mechanisms for lifting, tilting, replacing the test jar, optical camera system, and a temperature measuring device.
6.2 Test Jar - Clear, cylindrical glass, flat bottom (darkened), 31.5 +/- 0.5 mm inside diameter and 120 +/- 2 mm height with a wall thickness of 1.25 +/- 0.25 mm. The jar shall be marked with a line to indicate sample filling height corresponding to 45 +/- 0.5 mL.
6.3 Temperature Probe - Capable of measurement from +70 to -80°C with a resolution of 0.1°C. The temperature probe shall be suspended in the center axis of the test jar and the top of the temperature sensing zone immersed below the surface of the specimen.
6.4 Circulating Bath - Refrigeration unit, equipped with a circulating pump, capable of maintaining the liquid cooling medium at a temperature at least 20°C lower than the lowest expected pour point to be measured. The circulating bath is connected to the automatic apparatus through suitable means for supplying the liquid cooling medium.
7. Reagents and Materials
7.1 Bath Cooling Medium - Suitable for use in the circulating bath (an example is methyl alcohol-anhydrous). (Warning - Flammable. Liquid causes eye burns. Vapor harmful. May be fatal or cause blindness if swallowed or inhaled.)
7.2 Cleaning Solvents - Suitable for cleaning and drying the test jar and temperature measuring device, such as; petroleum naphtha or acetone. (Warning - Flammable. Liquid causes eye burns. Vapor harmful. May be fatal or cause blindness if swallowed or inhaled.)
