5.1 The evaporation loss is of particular importance in engine lubrication. Where high temperatures occur, portions of an oil can evaporate.

5.2 Evaporation may contribute to oil consumption in an engine and can lead to a change in the properties of an oil.

5.3 Many engine manufacturers specify a maximum allowable evaporation loss.

5.4 Some engine manufacturers, when specifying a maximum allowable evaporation loss, quote this test method along with the specifications.

5.5 The apparatuses used in Procedure C (see Annex A2) and Procedure D, also permit collection of the volatile oil vapors for determination of their physical and chemical properties. Elemental analysis of the collected volatiles may be helpful in identifying components such as phosphorous, which has been linked to premature degradation of the emission system catalyst.

1.1 This test method covers four procedures for determining the evaporation loss of lubricating oils (particularly engine oils). The evaporation measured is reported as percent total loss. The test method relates to one set of operating conditions but may be readily adapted to other conditions as required.

1.2 Procedure B and Procedure D that are in the main section of the test method provide equivalent results. Procedures A and C, which are in Annex A1 and Annex A2, have equivalent results. It has been determined that Procedures A and C show a slight bias when compared to Procedures B and D. Procedures B and D give slightly higher results versus Procedures A and C on formulated engine oils, while Procedures B and D give lower results versus Procedures A and C on basestocks. Thus, a correction factor is utilized to convert between the two sets of Procedures based on the fluid type.

1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.

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, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.5 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.