This test method provides a basis for the estimation of the storage stability of middle distillate fuels such as No. 2 fuel oil.

The test method may not provide a prediction of the quantity of insolubles that will form in field storage over any given period of time. The amount of insolubles formed in such field storage is subject to the specific conditions which are too variable for this test method to predict accurately.

Test Method D 2274 yields results more rapidly than Test Method D 4625, the 43°C bottle test. However, as a result of the significantly elevated temperature and the pure oxygen atmosphere, the nature and amount of insolubles may deviate to a greater extent than Test Method D 4625 from those formed in field storage.

1.1 This test method covers the measurement of the inherent stability of middle distillate petroleum fuels under specified oxidizing conditions at 95°C.

Note 1—Fuels used in establishing the precision measures for this test method were described as gas oil, diesel fuel, No. 2 heating oil, and DFM, a Navy distillate fuel suitable for diesels, boilers, and gas turbines. (The term DFM is no longer used when referring to fuel meeting MIL-F-16884 requirements; rather it is called F76 as it conforms to NATO F76 requirements.) While the test method may be used for fuels outside the range of these fuels, the precision measures may not apply.

1.2 This test method is not applicable to fuels containing residual oil or significant amounts of components derived from non-petroleum sources.

1.3 The values given in acceptable SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values in parentheses are for information only.

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.