5.1 The boiling range distribution of petroleum distillate fractions provides an insight into the composition of feed stocks and products related to petroleum refining processes. A major advantage of the fast analysis time obtained by this test method is increasing product through put and reduced lab testing time by a minimum factor of 3. This gas chromatographic determination of boiling range may be used to replace conventional distillation methods for control of refining operations and for product specification testing with the mutual agreement of interested parties.

5.2 Boiling range distributions obtained by this test method are essentially equivalent to those obtained by true boiling point (TBP) distillation (see Test Method D2892). They are not equivalent to results from low efficiency distillations such as those obtained with Test Method D86 or D1160.

1.1 This test method covers the determination of the boiling range distribution of petroleum products and biodiesel formulations, B5, B10, and B20. It is applicable to petroleum distillates having a final boiling point not greater than 538°C or lower at atmospheric pressure as measured by this test method. The difference between the initial boiling point and the final boiling point shall be greater than 55°C.

1.2 The test method is not applicable for analysis of petroleum distillates containing low molecular weight components (for example naphthas, reformates, gasolines, full range crude oils). Materials containing heterogeneous mixtures (for example, alcohols, ethers, acids or esters, except biodiesels) or residue are not to be analyzed by this test method. See Test Methods D3710, D7096, D6352, or D7169.

1.3 This test method uses the principles of simulated distillation methodology. This test method uses gas chromatographic components that allow the entire analysis from sample to sample to occur in 5 min or less. In these instruments the column is heated directly at rates 10–15 times that of a conventional gas chromatograph and thus the analysis time is reduced from sample to sample.

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

1.4.1 Exception—Appendix X1 includes temperatures in Fahrenheit for information only.

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.