ASTM D2890-23

Standard Test Method for Calculation of Liquid Heat Capacity of Petroleum Distillate Fuels

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 Heat capacities obtained by this method are those at atmospheric pressure. However, because the temperature range is low, the calculated values are similar to saturated liquid heat capacities in the temperature-pressure range required for most engineering design.
SCOPE
1.1 This test method covers the calculation of liquid heat capacity, Btu/lb · °F (kJ/kg · K), at atmospheric pressure, of petroleum fuels for which distillation data may be obtained in accordance with Test Method D86 without reaching a decomposition point prior to obtaining 90 % by volume distilled.  
1.2 This test method is not applicable at temperatures less than 0 °F (−18 °C) and greater than 60 °F (16 °C) above the volumetric average boiling point of the fuel.  
1.3 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard.  
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, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.  
1.5 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.

General Information

• Status: Published
• Publication Date: 31-Oct-2023
• ICS: 75.080 - Petroleum products in general
• Technical Committee: D02 - Petroleum Products, Liquid Fuels, and Lubricants
• Drafting Committee: D02.04.0K - Correlative Methods

Relations

• Replaces: ASTM D2890-92(2018) - Standard Test Method for Calculation of Liquid Heat Capacity of Petroleum Distillate Fuels
• Effective Date: 01-Nov-2023
• Refers: ASTM D4175-23a - Standard Terminology Relating to Petroleum Products, Liquid Fuels, and Lubricants
• Effective Date: 15-Dec-2023
• Refers: ASTM D86-23a - Standard Test Method for Distillation of Petroleum Products and Liquid Fuels at Atmospheric Pressure
• Effective Date: 01-Dec-2023
• Refers: ASTM D86-23ae1 - Standard Test Method for Distillation of Petroleum Products and Liquid Fuels at Atmospheric Pressure
• Effective Date: 01-Dec-2023
• Refers: ASTM D4175-23e1 - Standard Terminology Relating to Petroleum Products, Liquid Fuels, and Lubricants
• Effective Date: 01-Jul-2023
• Refers: ASTM D4175-23 - Standard Terminology Relating to Petroleum Products, Liquid Fuels, and Lubricants
• Effective Date: 01-Jul-2023
• Refers: ASTM D86-23 - Standard Test Method for Distillation of Petroleum Products and Liquid Fuels at Atmospheric Pressure
• Effective Date: 01-Mar-2023

Overview

ASTM D2890-23 is an internationally recognized standard developed by ASTM International, titled “Standard Test Method for Calculation of Liquid Heat Capacity of Petroleum Distillate Fuels.” This standard outlines procedures for calculating the heat capacity of petroleum distillate fuels at atmospheric pressure, providing essential data for engineering, design, and operational purposes. The calculation is based on distillation data according to ASTM D86 and API gravity, ensuring results are reliable within the specified temperature range. It is widely used across the petroleum and fuel industries for quality control, process design, and fuel analysis.

Key Topics

• Scope and Applicability

  • Applicable to petroleum fuels for which ASTM D86 distillation data can be obtained before 90% by volume is distilled, and decomposition has not occurred.
  • Not suitable for temperatures below 0°F (−18°C) or more than 60°F (16°C) above the average boiling point of the fuel.

• Heat Capacity Calculation

  • Calculation expressed as Btu/lb·°F or kJ/kg·K.
  • Relies on distillation points, API gravity (per ASTM D287), and the Watson characterization factor.
  • Provides values that closely represent saturated liquid heat capacities at relevant temperatures and pressures for typical engineering applications.

• Data Requirements

  • Accurate distillation temperatures at specific volume fractions (10%, 30%, 50%, 70%, and 90%) using ASTM D86.
  • API gravity determination.
  • Conversion to SI units is provided for reference.

• Precision and Reliability

  • Defined repeatability and reproducibility criteria ensure trust in data across multiple operators and laboratories.
  • Recognized within the industry for producing repeatable heat capacity results vital for fuel specification and process operations.

Applications

• Engineering Design:
  Accurate heat capacity data assists engineers in designing petroleum processing and handling systems, contributing to efficiency and safety.

• Quality Control in Refineries and Fuel Production:
  Routine calculation of liquid heat capacity supports product consistency, compliance with specifications, and process optimization.

• Fuel Performance Analysis:
  Understanding how different distillate fuels respond to temperature changes enables better prediction of performance characteristics, directly impacting engine and equipment operation.

• Regulatory and Safety Assessments:
  Data generated using ASTM D2890-23 can be used to meet international regulations and for safety evaluations, as required in compliance documentation and reporting.

• Research and Development:
  The standard methodology provides a consistent approach for laboratories involved in fuel research and innovation.

Related Standards

• ASTM D86:
  Standard Test Method for Distillation of Petroleum Products and Liquid Fuels at Atmospheric Pressure - provides the fundamental distillation data required as input for the calculation.

• ASTM D287:
  Standard Test Method for API Gravity of Crude Petroleum and Petroleum Products (Hydrometer Method) - essential for obtaining the gravity value used in the calculation.

• ASTM D4175:
  Terminology Relating to Petroleum Products, Liquid Fuels, and Lubricants - offers comprehensive definitions, including terms used within ASTM D2890-23.

Practical Value

Adhering to ASTM D2890-23 ensures that professionals in petroleum refining, fuel production, and related fields can accurately and efficiently determine the liquid heat capacity of distillate fuels. This enables better process control, supports adherence to international standards, and underpins the development of safer, more reliable fuel systems. The standardized approach facilitates global trade and regulatory compliance within the fuel and energy sectors.

Standards Content (Sample)

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.
Designation: D2890 − 23
Standard Test Method for
Calculation of Liquid Heat Capacity of Petroleum Distillate
Fuels
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D2890; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope* D4175 Terminology Relating to Petroleum Products, Liquid
Fuels, and Lubricants
1.1 This test method covers the calculation of liquid heat
capacity, Btu/lb · °F (kJ/kg · K), at atmospheric pressure, of
3. Terminology
petroleum fuels for which distillation data may be obtained in
3.1 Definitions:
accordance with Test Method D86 without reaching a decom-
3.1.1 For definitions of terms used in this test method, refer
position point prior to obtaining 90 % by volume distilled.
to Terminology D4175.
1.2 This test method is not applicable at temperatures less
3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
than 0 °F (−18 °C) and greater than 60 °F (16 °C) above the
3.2.1 mean average boiling point (MeABP), n—defined
volumetric average boiling point of the fuel.
internally for this method in Section 7, Procedure 7.3.
1.3 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded
3.2.2 volumetric average boiling point (VABP), n—defined
as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical
internally for this method in Section 7, Procedure 7.2.
conversions to SI units that are provided for information only
3.2.3 Watson characterization factor, K, n—a systematic
and are not considered standard.
way of classifying a crude oil according to its paraffinic,
1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the
naphthenic, intermediate or aromatic nature.
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
3.2.3.1 Discussion—A K value of 12.5 or higher indicates a
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
crude oil of predominantly paraffinic constituents, while 10 or
priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter-
lower indicates a crude of more aromatic nature.
mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
4. Summary of Test Method
1.5 This international standard was developed in accor-
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
4.1 The Watson characterization factor, K, is obtained from
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
a graphical correlation relating determined Test Method D86
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
distillation data and K. The liquid heat capacity is obtained,
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
either graphically or mathematically, from correlations relating
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
calculated heat capacity, temperature at which heat capacity is
being calculated, determined API gravity, and K.
2. Referenced Documents
NOTE 1—Details of the method have been published.
2.1 ASTM Standards:
5. Significance and Use
D86 Test Method for Distillation of Petroleum Products and
Liquid Fuels at Atmospheric Pressure
5.1 Heat capacities obtained by this method are those at
D287 Test Method for API Gravity of Crude Petroleum and
atmospheric pressure. However, because the temperature range
Petroleum Products (Hydrometer/Method)
is low, the calculated values are similar to saturated liquid heat
capacities in the temperature-pressure range required for most
engineering design.
This test method is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D02 on
6. Data Requirements
Petroleum Products, Liquid Fuels, and Lubricants and is the direct responsibility of
Subcommittee D02.04.0K on Correlative Methods.
6.1 Distillation temperatures at (in °F) 10 %, 30 %, 50 %,
Current edition approved Nov. 1, 2023. Published November 2023. Originally
70 %, and 90 % by volume distilled obtained in accordance
approved in 1970. Last previous edition approved in 2018 as D2890 – 92 (2018).
DOI: 10.1520/D2890-23.
with Test Method D86.
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM
Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on Technical Data Book-Petroleum Refining, Chapter 7, American Petroleum
the ASTM website. Institute, Division of Refining, 1220 L St. NW, Washington, DC 20005.
*A Summary of Changes section appears at the end of this standard
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
D2890 − 23
6.2 API gravity determined in accordance with Test Method
D287 or a method of equivalent accuracy.
7. Procedure
7.1 Calculate to the nearest 0.1 unit the slope of the Test
Method D86 distillation curve, °F/volume %, as the difference
between the 10 and 90 volume % distilled temperatures di-
vided by 80.
7.2 Calculate to the nearest 1 °F the volumetric average
boiling point (VABP) as the sum of Test Method D86 10 %,
30 %, 50 %, 70 %, and 90 % by volume distilled temperatures
divided by 5.
7.3 Obtain a temperature correction to the nearest 1 °F from
Fig. 1, using the sl
...

This document is not an ASTM standard and is intended only to provide the user of an ASTM standard an indication of what changes have been made to the previous version. Because
it may not be technically possible to adequately depict all changes accurately, ASTM recommends that users consult prior editions as appropriate. In all cases only the current version
of the standard as published by ASTM is to be considered the official document.
Designation: D2890 − 92 (Reapproved 2018) D2890 − 23
Standard Test Method for
Calculation of Liquid Heat Capacity of Petroleum Distillate
Fuels
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D2890; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope Scope*
1.1 This test method covers the calculation of liquid heat capacity, Btu/lb · °F (kJ/kg · K), at atmospheric pressure, of petroleum
fuels for which distillation data may be obtained in accordance with Test Method D86 without reaching a decomposition point prior
to obtaining 90 % by volume distilled.
1.2 This test method is not applicable at temperatures less than 0 °F (−18 °C) and greater than 60 °F (16 °C) above the volumetric
average boiling point of the fuel.
1.3 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical
conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard.
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, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of
regulatory limitations prior to use.
1.5 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.
2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:
D86 Test Method for Distillation of Petroleum Products and Liquid Fuels at Atmospheric Pressure
D287 Test Method for API Gravity of Crude Petroleum and Petroleum Products (Hydrometer/Method)
D4175 Terminology Relating to Petroleum Products, Liquid Fuels, and Lubricants
3. Terminology
3.1 Definitions:
3.1.1 For definitions of terms used in this test method, refer to Terminology D4175.
3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
This test method is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D02 on Petroleum Products, Liquid Fuels, and Lubricants and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee
D02.04.0K on Correlative Methods.
Current edition approved Oct. 1, 2018Nov. 1, 2023. Published November 2018November 2023. Originally approved in 1970. Last previous edition approved in 20132018
as D2890 – 92 (2013).(2018). DOI: 10.1520/D2890-92R18.10.1520/D2890-23.
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM Standards
volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on the ASTM website.
*A Summary of Changes section appears at the end of this standard
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
D2890 − 23
3.2.1 mean average boiling point (MeABP), n—defined internally for this method in Section 7, Procedure 7.3.
3.2.2 volumetric average boiling point (VABP), n—defined internally for this method in Section 7, Procedure 7.2.
3.2.3 Watson characterization factor, K, n—a systematic way of classifying a crude oil according to its paraffinic, naphthenic,
intermediate or aromatic nature.
3.2.3.1 Discussion—
A K value of 12.5 or higher indicates a crude oil of predominantly paraffinic constituents, while 10 or lower indicates a crude of
more aromatic nature.
4. Summary of Test Method
4.1 The Watson characterization factor, K, is obtained from a graphical correlation relating determined Test Method D86
distillation data and K. The liquid heat capacity is obtained, either graphically or mathematically, from correlations relating
calculated heat capacity, temperature at which heat capacity is being calculated, determined API gravity, and K.
NOTE 1—Details of the method have been published.
5. Significance and Use
5.1 Heat capacities obtained by this method are those at atmospheric pressure. However, because the temperature range is low,
the calculated values are similar to saturated liquid heat capacities in the temperature-pressure range required for most engineering
design.
6. Data Requirements
6.1 Distillation temperatures at (in °F) 10 %, 30 %, 50 %, 70 %, and 90 % by volume distilled obtained in accordance with Test
Method D86.
6.2 API gravity determined in accordance with Test Method D287 or a method of equivalent accuracy.
7. Procedure
7.1 Calculate to the nearest 0.1 unit the slope of the Test Method D86 distillation curve, °F/volume %, as the difference between
the 10 and 90 volume % distilled temperatures divided by 80.
7.2 Calculate to the nearest 1 °F the volumetric average boiling point (VABP) as the sum of Test Method D86 10 %, 30 %, 50 %,
70 %, and 90 % by volume distilled temperatures divided by 5.
7.3 Obtain a temperature correction to the nearest 1 °F from Fig. 1, using the slope and VABP calculated in accordance with 6.17.1
and 6.27.2. Calculate the mean average boiling point (MeABP
...