1.1 This test method covers a laboratory technique that measures the stability of new, used, or reclaimed insulating oils, similar to those described in Specification D 3487 in the presence of a controlled electric discharge. When subjected to this type of discharge, insulating oils absorb energy and produce gases as well as ionized molecules (charge carriers). The quantity of these decay products can be measured and can provide an indication of the stability of oils under the conditions of this test.