The pour point of a petroleum specimen is an index of the lowest temperature of its utility for certain applications.

1.1 This test method covers and is intended for use on any petroleum product. A procedure suitable for black specimens, cylinder stock, and nondistillate fuel oil is described in 8.8. A procedure for testing the fluidity of a residual fuel oil at a specified temperature is described in Appendix X1. The cloud point procedure formerly part of this test method now appears as Test Method D 2500.

1.2 Currently there is no ASTM test method for automated Test Method D 97 pour point measurements.

1.3 Several ASTM test methods offering alternative procedures for determining pour points using automatic apparatus are available. None of them share the same designation number as Test Method D 97. When an automatic instrument is used, the ASTM test method designation number specific to the technique shall be reported with the results. A procedure for testing the pour point of crude oils is described in Test Method D 5853.

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.