ASTM D1401 - Water Separability of Petroleum Oils and Synthetic Fluids

Significance and Use

5.1 This test method provides a guide for determining the water separation characteristics of oils subject to water contamination and turbulence. It is used for specification of new oils and monitoring of in-service oils.

1. Scope

1.1 This test method covers measurement of the ability of petroleum oils or synthetic fluids to separate from water. Although developed specifically for steam-turbine oils having viscosities of 28.8 mm2/s to 90 mm2/s at 40 °C, this test method may be used to test oils of other types having various viscosities and synthetic fluids at other test temperatures. It is recommended, however, that the test temperature be raised to 82 °C ± 1 °C when testing products more viscous than 90 mm2/s at 40 °C. For higher viscosity oils where there is insufficient mixing of oil and water, Test Method D2711 is recommended. Other test temperatures such as 25 °C may also be used. A 1 % sodium choloride (NaCl) solution or synthetic seawater may be used in place of distilled water when testing certain oils or fuels used in marine applications.

1.2 When testing synthetic fluids whose relative densities are greater than that of water, the procedure is unchanged, but it should be noted that the water will probably float on the emulsion or liquid.

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

Extracted, with permission, from ASTM D1401-21 - Water Separability of Petroleum Oils and Synthetic Fluids, copyright ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, West Conshohocken, PA 19428. A copy of the complete standard may be purchased from ASTM International, astm.org