ASTM D8166-17

5.1 This test method is intended for use in the laboratory or in the field to evaluate the cleanliness of distillate fuels, and liquid biofuels, such as biodiesel and diesel blends. This specific test method and the precision statement applies to off-line analysis.

5.2 An increase in particulate counts can indicate a change in the fuel condition caused for example by contamination during storage or transfer. Potential causes of particulates formation during storage could be “fuel-degradation products,” as described in Specification D975, Appendix X3.

5.3 High levels of particles can cause filter blockages (especially when the particles are close in size to the filter porosity rating) and have a serious impact on the life of pumps, injectors, pistons, and other moving parts. Knowledge of particle size in relation to the metallurgy can provide vital information, especially if the hardness of particles is also known from other sources.

5.4 This test method specifies a minimum requirement for reporting measurements in particle size bands (A1.2.1). Some specific applications may require measurements in other particle size bands. The particle count from the test should be carefully interpreted by the user as it can potentially over-state risk of abrasive damage or filter blocking due to counting water droplets as well as hard dirt particles.

1.1 This test method uses specific automatic particle counters (APCs) to count and measure the size of dispersed dirt particles, water droplets and other particulates, in light and middle distillate fuel, in the overall range from 4 µm(c) to 70 µm(c) and in the size bands ≥4 µm(c), ≥6 µm(c), ≥14 µm(c), and ≥30 µm(c).

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

1.3 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.

1.4 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.