5.1 The no flow point of a petroleum product is an index of the lowest temperature of its utility for some applications. Flow characteristics, such as no flow point, can be critical for the proper operation of lubricating systems, fuel systems, and pipeline operations.

5.2 Petroleum blending operations require precise measurement of the no flow point.

5.3 This test method can determine the temperature of the test specimen with a resolution of 0.1 °C at which either crystals have formed or viscosity has increased sufficiently, or both, to impede flow of the petroleum product.

5.4 The pour point of a petroleum product is an index of the lowest temperature of its utility for certain applications. Flow characteristics, like pour point, can be critical for the correct operation of lubricating oil systems, fuel systems, and pipeline operations.

5.5 Petroleum blending operations require precise measurement of the pour point.

5.6 Pour point results from this test method can be reported at either 1 °C or 3 °C intervals.

5.7 This test method yields a pour point in a format similar to Test Method D97/IP15 when the 3 °C interval results are reported.

5.8 This test method has better repeatability and reproducibility relative to Test Method D97/IP15 as measured in the 2011 interlaboratory test program (see 13.1.2).

1.1 This test method covers the determination of the no flow point and pour point of petroleum products, liquid fuels, biodiesel, and biodiesel blends using an automatic instrument.

1.2 The measuring range of the apparatus is from –95 °C to 45 °C, however the precision statements were derived only from samples with no flow point temperatures from –77 °C to +2 °C and samples with pour point in the temperature range of –58 °C to +12 °C.

1.3 Pour point results from this test method can be reported at 1 °C or 3 °C intervals.

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

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

1.6 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.