5.1 The design of most coal combustion and coal conversion equipment anticipates that the ash either remain solid or assume some degree of fluidity, depending on the particular design. Ash fusibility temperatures help predict whether the ash will perform properly in the process for which the coal was chosen.

5.2 Ash fusibility temperature values are used in various equations to predict the slagging tendency of ashes.

1.1 This test method covers the observation of the temperatures at which triangular pyramids (cones) prepared from coal and coke ash attain and pass through certain defined stages of fusing and flow when heated at a specified rate in controlled, mildly reducing, and where desired, oxidizing atmospheres.

1.2 The test method is empirical, and strict observance of the requirements and conditions is necessary to obtain reproducible temperatures and enable different laboratories to obtain concordant results.

1.3 The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in each system may not be exact equivalents; therefore, each system shall be used independently of the other. Combining values from the two systems may result in non-conformance with the standard.

1.3.1 All percentages are percent mass fractions unless otherwise noted.

1.4 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.