ASTM D97 for pour point of petroleum products
1. Scope
1.1 This test method is intended for use on any petroleum product. A procedure suitable for black specimens, cylinder stock, and nondistillate fuel oil is described in 8.8. A procedure for testing the fluidity of a residual fuel oil at a specified temperature is described in Appendix X1.
1.2 Several ASTM test methods offering alternative procedures for determining pour points using automatic apparatus are available. None of them share the same designation number as Test Method D97. When an automatic instrument is used, the ASTM test method designation number specific to the technique shall be reported with the results. A procedure for testing the pour point of crude oils is described in Test Method D5853.
1.3 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:
D117 Guide for Sampling, Test Methods, and Specifications for Electrical Insulating Oils of Petroleum Origin
D396 Specification for Fuel Oils
D1659 Test Method for Maximum Fluidity Temperature of Residual Fuel Oil
D2500 Test Method for Cloud Point of Petroleum Products
D3245 Test Method for Pumpability of Industrial Fuel Oils
D5853 Test Method for Pour Point of Crude Oils
E1 Specification for ASTM Liquid-in-Glass Thermometers
2.2 Energy Institute Standards:
Specifications for IP Standard Thermometers
3. Terminology
3.1 Definitions:
3.1.1 black oil, n-lubricant containing asphaltic materials. Black oils are used in heavy-duty equipment applications, such as mining and quarrying, where extra adhesiveness is desired.
3.1.2 cylinder stock, n-lubricant for independently lubricated engine cylinders, such as those of steam engines and air compressors. Cylinder stock are also used for lubrication of valves and other elements in the cylinder area.
3.1.3 pour point, n-in petroleum products, the lowest temperature at which movement of the test specimen is observed under prescribed conditions of test.
3.1.4 residual fuel, n-a liquid fuel containing bottoms remaining from crude distillation or thermal cracking; sometimes referred to as heavy fuel oil.
3.1.4.1 Discussion-Residual fuels comprise Grades 4, 5, and 6 fuel oils, as defined in Specification D396.
4. Summary of Test Method
4.1 After preliminary heating, the sample is cooled at a specified rate and examined at intervals of 3°C for flow characteristics. The lowest temperature at which movement of the specimen is observed is recorded as the pour point.
