ASTM D97 & D2500

The ASTM D97, ASTM D2500, ISO 3015, ISO 3016, IP 15 and IP 219 test methods cover and are intended for use on any petroleum product. The cloud point procedure formerly part of this test method now appears as test method ASTM D2500. The pour point describes a procedure for testing the fluidity of a petroleum product at a temperature. The cloud point is defined as the temperature of a liquid specimen when the smallest observable cluster of wax crystals first appears upon cooling.

Why is it important to know the pour point (ASTM D97) and cloud point (ASTM D2500) of a petroleum product?

The pour point (ASTM D97) or cloud point (ASTM D2500) of a petroleum specimen, petroleum product or biodiesel fuels is an index of the lowest temperature of its utility for certain applications.

Summary of the ASTM D97 and ASTM D2500 test method

For pour point (ASTM D97): 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.

For cloud point (ASTM D2500): the specimen is cooled at a specified rate and examined periodically. The temperature at which a cloud is first observed at the bottom of the test jar is recorded as the cloud point.

Why should you use a Tamson liquid bath to determine manually the pour or cloud point of a petroleum product?

Tamson offers apparatus to determine the cloud point and pour point manually. The TLC40-14 or TLC80-14 are single and adjustable circulator baths with position for six jackets. The TLC40-14 can be used to minus 40°C. The TLC80 can be used to minus 80°C.

Please contact our sales team (sales@tamson.nl) to get a quotation. Or visit our webshop to get price and technical information of a Tamson single and adjustable liquid bath and the required accessories and consumables for the determination of to determine the cloud point and pour point manually conform to the ASTM D97, ASTM D2500, ISO 3015, ISO 3016, IP 15 and IP 219 test methods.