ASTM D5950-02

The pour point of a petroleum product is an index of the lowest temperature of its utility for certain applications. Flow characteristics, like pour point, can be critical for the correct operation of lubricating oil systems, fuel systems, and pipeline operations.

Petroleum blending operations require precise measurement of the pour point.

This test method can determine the pour point of the test specimen with a resolution of 1.0°C.

Test results from this test method can be determined at either 1 or 3°C intervals.

This test method yields a pour point in a format similar to Test Method D 97/IP15 when the 3°C interval results are reported.

Note 3—Since some users may wish to report their results in a format similar to Test Method D 97 (in 3°C intervals) the precisions were derived for the temperatures rounded to the 3°C intervals. For statements on bias relative to Test Method D 97, see 13.3.

This test method has better repeatability and reproducibility relative to Test Method D 97/IP15 as measured in the 1998 interlaboratory test program.⁵

1.1 This test method covers the determination of pour point of petroleum products by an automatic instrument that tilts the test jar during cooling and detects movement of the surface of the test specimen with an optical device.

1.2 This test method is designed to cover the range of temperatures from -57 to +51°C; however, the range of temperatures included in the 1992 interlaboratory test program only covered the temperature range from -39 to +6°C, and the range of temperatures included in the 1998 interlaboratory test program was -51 to -11°C. (see 13.4).

1.3 Test results from this test method can be determined at 1 or 3°C intervals.

1.4 This test method is not intended for use with crude oils.

Note 1—The applicability of this test method on residual fuel samples has not been verified. For further information on applicability, refer to 13.4.

1.5 The values stated in SI units are regarded as standard.

1.6 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.