Significance and Use

Some fuel dilution of the engine oil may take place during normal operation. However, excessive fuel dilution is of concern in terms of possible performance problems. This method provides a means to determine the magnitude of the fuel dilution, providing the user with the ability to predict performance problems and to take appropriate action.

1. Scope

1.1 This test method covers the use of gas chromatography to determine the amount of gasoline in used lubricating oils arising from their use in gasoline engines.

1.2 There is no limitation for the determination of the dilution range, provided that the amount of sample plus internal standard is within the linear range of the gas chromatograph detector.

1.3 This test method is limited to gas chromatographs equipped with flame ionization detectors and programmable ovens.

Note 1The use of other detectors and instrumentation has been reported. However, the precision statement applies only when the instrumentation specified is employed.

1.4 The applicability of this method to gelled used engine oils has not been adequately investigated in order to ensure compliance with the indicated repeatability and reproducibility. Gelled oils are defined as oils that develop structure on standing, but that return to their original fluidity with light agitation.

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

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 requirements prior to use.

2. Referenced Documents (purchase separately) The documents listed below are referenced within the subject standard but are not provided as part of the standard.

ASTM Standards

E260 Practice for Packed Column Gas Chromatography

E355 Practice for Gas Chromatography Terms and Relationships

E594 Practice for Testing Flame Ionization Detectors Used in Gas or Supercritical Fluid Chromatography

E1510 Practice for Installing Fused Silica Open Tubular Capillary Columns in Gas Chromatographs

Keywords

fuel dilution; gas chromatography; gasoline; lubricating oil; Diluents; Fuel dilution; Gas chromatography (GC)--petroleum products; Gasoline content--used lubricating oil; Gasoline diluent; Lubricating oils;

ICS Code

ICS Number Code 75.100 (Lubricants, industrial oils and related products)

DOI: 10.1520/D3525-04R10

ASTM International is a member of CrossRef.

ASTM D3525