5.1 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.2 A procedure suitable for black specimens, cylinder stock, and nondistillate fuel oil is described in 8.8. The cloud point procedure formerly part of this test method now appears as Test Method D2500.

1.2 Currently there is no ASTM test method for automated Test Method D97 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 D97. 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 D5853.

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 WARNING—Mercury has been designated by many regulatory agencies as a hazardous material that can cause central nervous system, kidney and liver damage. Mercury, or its vapor, may be hazardous to health and corrosive to materials. Caution should be taken when handling mercury and mercury containing products. See the applicable product Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) for details and EPA’s website—http://www.epa.gov/mercury/faq.htm—for additional information. Users should be aware that selling mercury and/or mercury containing products into your state or country may be prohibited by law.

1.6 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.