4.1 Tests covered in this standard may be used for quality control and design considerations.

4.2 Included in each test method is a brief statement describing its significance.

1.1 These test methods cover the testing of silicone fluids for use in transformers, capacitors, and electronic assemblies as an insulating or cooling medium, or both. These methods are generally suitable for specification acceptance, factory control, referee testing, and research.

1.2 Although some of the test methods listed here apply primarily to petroleum-based fluids, they are, with minor revisions, equally applicable to silicone fluids.

1.3 Silicone fluids are used for electrical insulating purposes because of their stable properties at high and low temperatures and their relative environmental inertness.

1.4 A list of the properties and standards are as follows:

Property Measured

Section

ASTM Test Method

Physical:

 Color

 6

D2129

 Flash point

 7

D92

 Fire point

 7

D92

 Polychlorinated biphenyl
  content

 8

D4059

 Pour point

 9

D97

 Refractive index

10

D1807

 Specific gravity

11

D1298, D1481, D4052

 Volatility

12

D4559

 Viscosity

13

D445, D2161

Chemical:

 Neutralization number

14

D974

 Water content

15

D1533

Electrical:

 Relative permittivity

16

D924²

 Dielectric breakdown
  voltage

17

D877³

 Dissipation factor

18

D924²

 Specific resistance

19

D1169²

 Compatibility

20

D5282

1.5 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.