ASTM D3142/D3142M-17

Standard Test Method for Specific Gravity, API Gravity, or Density of Cutback Asphalts by Hydrometer Method

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 Accurate determination of the density, specific gravity, or API gravity of cutback asphalts is necessary for the conversion of measured volumes to volumes at the standard temperature of 15 °C or 60 °F.  
5.2 Similarly, accurate determination is necessary for converting volumes to mass as required in other ASTM tests on cutback asphalts.  
5.3 Values corrected to 15 °C and 60 °F will be different because the two temperatures are not equal.
SCOPE
1.1 This test method covers the laboratory determination, using a glass hydrometer, of the density, specific gravity, or API gravity of cutback asphalts as defined in Specifications D2026, D2027, and D2028 (Note 1). Values are measured on a hydrometer at convenient temperatures, readings of density, specific gravity, and API gravity being reduced to 15 °C or 60 °F by means of international standard tables. By means of these same tables, values determined in one of the three systems of measurement are convertible to equivalent values in either system so that measurements may be made in the units of local convenience.
Note 1: This test method is applicable to cutback asphalts and in general follows, but provides more explicit routines than, the procedure outlined in Test Method D1298.  
1.2 Units—The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in each system may not be exact equivalents; therefore, each system shall be used independently of the other. Combining values from the two systems may result in nonconformance with the 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. Specific precautionary statements are given in Section 7.  
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.

General Information

• Status: Published
• Publication Date: 14-Dec-2017
• ICS: 91.100.50 - Binders. Sealing materials
• ICS: 93.080.20 - Road construction materials
• Technical Committee: D04 - Road and Paving Materials
• Drafting Committee: D04.47 - Miscellaneous Asphalt Tests

Relations

• Replaces: ASTM D3142/D3142M-11 - Standard Test Method for Specific Gravity, API Gravity, or Density of Cutback Asphalts by Hydrometer Method
• Effective Date: 15-Dec-2017
• Refers: ASTM C670-24a - Standard Practice for Preparing Precision and Bias Statements for Test Methods for Construction Materials
• Effective Date: 01-Feb-2024
• Refers: ASTM C670-24 - Standard Practice for Preparing Precision and Bias Statements for Test Methods for Construction Materials
• Effective Date: 01-Jan-2024
• Refers: ASTM E100-19 - Standard Specification for ASTM Hydrometers
• Effective Date: 01-May-2019
• Refers: ASTM D1250-19e1 - Standard Guide for the Use of the Joint API and ASTM Adjunct for Temperature and Pressure Volume Correction Factors for Generalized Crude Oils, Refined Products, and Lubricating Oils: API MPMS Chapter 11.1
• Effective Date: 01-May-2019
• Refers: ASTM E100-15a - Standard Specification for ASTM Hydrometers
• Effective Date: 01-Dec-2015
• Refers: ASTM E100-15 - Standard Specification for ASTM Hydrometers
• Effective Date: 01-Aug-2015
• Refers: ASTM E100-14 - Standard Specification for ASTM Hydrometers
• Effective Date: 01-May-2014
• Refers: ASTM C670-13 - Standard Practice for Preparing Precision and Bias Statements for Test Methods for Construction Materials
• Effective Date: 01-Jul-2013
• Refers: ASTM E1-13 - Standard Specification for ASTM Liquid-in-Glass Thermometers
• Effective Date: 01-May-2013
• Refers: ASTM D1298-12a - Standard Test Method for Density, Relative Density (Specific Gravity), or API Gravity of Crude Petroleum and Liquid Petroleum Products by Hydrometer Method
• Effective Date: 15-May-2012
• Refers: ASTM D1298-12 - Standard Test Method for Density, Relative Density (Specific Gravity), or API Gravity of Crude Petroleum and Liquid Petroleum Products by Hydrometer Method
• Effective Date: 01-Apr-2012
• Refers: ASTM E100-10 - Standard Specification for ASTM Hydrometers
• Effective Date: 01-Nov-2010
• Refers: ASTM C670-10 - Standard Practice for Preparing Precision and Bias Statements for Test Methods for Construction Materials
• Effective Date: 01-Oct-2010
• Refers: ASTM D2026-97(2010) - Standard Specification for Cutback Asphalt (Slow-Curing Type)
• Effective Date: 01-Jan-2010

Overview

ASTM D3142/D3142M-17 is the recognized international standard for the laboratory determination of specific gravity, API gravity, and density of cutback asphalts by hydrometer method. This test method offers a clear, repeatable protocol for measuring and converting observed values at various temperatures to standardized conditions using reference tables. Accurate determination of these properties is essential for consistency in petroleum product characterization, mass-volume conversions, and compliance with industry specifications.

Cutback asphalts, as defined in ASTM D2026, D2027, and D2028, require precise testing methods due to their volatility and use in critical construction and paving applications. This standard enables measurement and reporting in both SI and inch-pound units, supporting international trade and compatibility.

Key Topics

• Hydrometer Method: Utilizes a calibrated glass hydrometer and constant-temperature bath for measurements.
• Temperature Correction: Readings are corrected to standard temperatures (15 °C or 60 °F) using international standard tables for accurate conversion and reporting.
• Measurement Units: Results can be reported in density (kg/m³), specific gravity, or API gravity (°API). The standard supports both SI and inch-pound units, but these must not be intermixed.
• Procedural Clarity: This method clarifies and refines the procedures in ASTM D1298, ensuring reliable and explicit step-by-step guidance for petroleum laboratories.
• Safety Considerations: Emphasizes safe handling of volatile and flammable materials, including specific guidance on mercury-containing instruments and sample preparation to minimize exposure and evaporation.

Applications

ASTM D3142/D3142M-17 is used in various industries and laboratory settings, particularly where precise measurements of cutback asphalt properties are required. Key applications include:

• Material Characterization: Determining specific gravity, density, or API gravity for quality control during asphalt processing and formulation.
• Volume-to-Mass Conversion: Converting measured volume at any temperature to mass or to standardized volume for shipping, storage, and regulatory compliance.
• Specification Adherence: Verifying material compliance with relevant ASTM specifications (D2026, D2027, D2028) and for use in further ASTM tests.
• Pavement and Road Construction: Supporting mix design, quality assurance, and product acceptance in road and paving materials.
• International Commerce: Ensuring that asphalt products meet export/import requirements through adherence to globally recognized test methods.

Related Standards

• ASTM D2026: Specification for Cutback Asphalt (Slow-Curing Type)
• ASTM D2027: Specification for Cutback Asphalt (Medium-Curing Type)
• ASTM D2028: Specification for Cutback Asphalt (Rapid-Curing Type)
• ASTM D1298: Density, Relative Density, or API Gravity of Crude Petroleum and Liquid Petroleum Products by Hydrometer Method (foundational method referenced in D3142)
• ASTM D1250: Guide for the Use of Petroleum Measurement Tables (for temperature correction and conversions)
• ASTM E1 & E100: Specification for ASTM Liquid-in-Glass Thermometers and Hydrometers for test instrumentation
• ASTM D140: Practice for Sampling Bituminous Materials

Practical Value

Implementing ASTM D3142/D3142M-17 delivers standardized, reliable results that are critical for the asphalt and petroleum industries. Laboratories and material producers benefit from:

• Consistent and comparable data for product quality and compliance
• Reduced measurement errors through clear procedural requirements and correction methods
• Alignment with international trade standards for easy cross-border transactions
• Enhanced safety and environmental compliance through recommended best practices

This standard is a cornerstone for any operation or laboratory dealing with cutback asphalt, ensuring data integrity for processing, quality control, and regulatory adherence.

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:D3142/D3142M −17
Standard Test Method for
Specific Gravity, API Gravity, or Density of Cutback Asphalts
by Hydrometer Method
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D3142/D3142M; 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 2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:
1.1 This test method covers the laboratory determination,
C670 Practice for Preparing Precision and Bias Statements
using a glass hydrometer, of the density, specific gravity, or
for Test Methods for Construction Materials
API gravity of cutback asphalts as defined in Specifications
D140 Practice for Sampling Bituminous Materials
D2026, D2027, and D2028 (Note 1). Values are measured on a
D1250 Guide for Use of the Petroleum Measurement Tables
hydrometer at convenient temperatures, readings of density,
D1298 Test Method for Density, Relative Density, or API
specific gravity, and API gravity being reduced to 15 °C or
Gravity of Crude Petroleum and Liquid Petroleum Prod-
60 °F by means of international standard tables. By means of
ucts by Hydrometer Method
these same tables, values determined in one of the three
D2026 Specification for Cutback Asphalt (Slow-Curing
systems of measurement are convertible to equivalent values in
Type)
either system so that measurements may be made in the units
D2027 Specification for Cutback Asphalt (Medium-Curing
of local convenience.
Type)
D2028 Specification for Cutback Asphalt (Rapid-Curing
NOTE 1—This test method is applicable to cutback asphalts and in
general follows, but provides more explicit routines than, the procedure
Type)
outlined in Test Method D1298.
E1 Specification for ASTM Liquid-in-Glass Thermometers
E100 Specification for ASTM Hydrometers
1.2 Units—The values stated in either SI units or inch-
pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. The
3. Terminology
values stated in each system may not be exact equivalents;
therefore,eachsystemshallbeusedindependentlyoftheother. 3.1 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
3.1.1 API gravity—a function of specific gravity 15/15 °C
Combining values from the two systems may result in noncon-
formance with the standard. [60/60 °F], represented by the equation:
°API 5 @141.5/SG 15/15°C# 2 131.5 or
1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the
°API 5 141.5/SG 60/60°F 2 131.5
@ #
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
No statement of reference temperature is required since
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
15 °C [60 °F] is included in the definition.
priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter-
3.1.2 density—the mass of material per unit volume. When
mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
reporting results, explicitly state the density in units of mass
Specific precautionary statements are given in Section 7.
(kilograms) and volume (litres), together with the standard
1.4 This international standard was developed in accor-
reference temperature.
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
3.1.3 observed values—values observed at temperatures
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
other than the standard reference temperature. Values observed
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
at other temperatures are only hydrometer readings, and not
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
density, relative density (specific gravity), or API gravity.
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
3.1.4 specific gravity—the ratio of mass of a given volume
of a material at a specified temperature to the mass of an equal
This test method is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D04 on Road
and Paving Materials and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee D04.47 on
Miscellaneous Asphalt Tests. For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
Current edition approved Dec. 15, 2017. Published January 2018. Originally contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM
approved in 1972. Last previous edition approved in 2011 as D3142/D3142M – 11. Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
DOI: 10.1520/D3142/D3142M-17. the ASTM website.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
D3142/D3142M−17
volume of pure water measured at the reference temperature. hydrometer used in it. The height of the cylinder shall be such
When reporting results, the standard reference temperature that the hydrometer floats in the sample with at least 25 mm
must be stated. [1 in.] clearance between the bottom of the hydrometer and the
bottom of the cylinder.
4. Summary of Test Method
NOTE 2—Hydrometer cylinders constructed of plastic materials should
4.1 The sample is brought to the testing temperature and
be resistant to discoloration or attack by oil samples and must not become
transferred to a hydrometer cylinder at approximately the same opaque by prolonged exposure to sunlight and oil samples.
temperature. The cylinder and its contents are placed in a
6.4 Constant-Temperature Bath, capable of maintaining the
constant-temperature bath to avoid excessive temperature
testingtemperatureto 60.5 °C[1.0 °F]andofsuchdimensions
variation during the test. The appropriate hydrometer is low-
that the level of the liquid is approximately the same as that of
ered into the sample and allowed to settle. After temperature
the sample in the hydrometer cylinder.
equilibrium, the hydrometer is read and the temperature of the
6.5 Oven, for preheating the sample, and capable of main-
sample is noted.
taining the selected testing temperature to within 63 °C [5 °F].
4.2 The hydrometer reading is corrected to either 15 °C or
60 °F by referring to standard tables.
7. Hazards
7.1 Materials tested using this procedure may contain vola-
5. Significance and Use
tile and flammable hydrocarbons. Heat the sample in a covered
5.1 Accurate determination of the density, specific gravity,
container to minimize loss of volatile components. Carry out
or API gravity of cutback asphalts is necessary for the
the test in a well-ventilated area, and avoid breathing any
conversion of measured volumes to volumes at the standard
vapors which may be generated. Keep sources of ignition away
temperature of 15 °C or 60 °F.
from materials being tested.
5.2 Similarly, accurate determination is necessary for con-
7.2 Warning—Mercury has been designated by the United
verting volumes to mass as required in other ASTM tests on
States Environmental ProtectionAgency (EPA) and many state
cutback asphalts.
agencies as a hazardous material that can cause central nervous
5.3 Values corrected to 15 °C and 60 °F will be different system, kidney, and liver damage. Mercury or its vapor may be
because the two temperatures are not equal.
hazardous to health and corrosive to materials. Caution should
be taken when handling mercury and mercury-containing
6. Apparatus
products. See the applicable product Material Safety Data
6.1 Hydrometers, glass, graduated in units of specific Sheet (MSDS) for details and the EPA’s website
gravity,API gravity, or density as required, as listed in Table 1 (www.epa.gov/mercury/faq.htm) for additional information.
and in accordance with Specification E100. Users should be aware that selling mercury, mercury-
containingproducts,orboth,inyourstatemaybeprohibitedby
6.2 Thermometric Device—A calibrated liquid-in-glass,
state law.
total-immersion thermometer of suitable range with gradua-
tions at least every 0.2 °C [0.5 °F] and a maximum scale error
8. Sampling
of 0.15 °C [0.25 °F] as prescribed in Specification E1. Ther-
8.1 Take samples in accordance with Practice D140. The
mometer commonly used is 12C (12F). Any other thermomet-
sample shall be free of foreign substances.
ric device of equal accuracy may be used. If a thermohydrom-
eter is used, the temperature scale shall have a range from 20
8.2 Thoroughly mix the sample before removing a repre-
to 65 °C or 60 to 220 °F (Designation H).
sentative portion for testing.
6.3 Hydrometer Cylinder, clear glass, plastic (Note 2), or
9. Temperature of Test
metal. For convenience in pouring, the cylinder may have a lip
9.1 Because of differences in viscosity between various
on the rim. The inside diameter of the cylinder shall be at least
grades of cutback asphalts, the temperature of the test must be
20 mm [ ⁄4 in.] greater than the outside diameter of the
adjusted so that it will provide sufficient fluidity to conduct the
testoverareasonableperiodoftime.Therecommendedtesting
TABLE 1 Recommended Hydrometers
temperatures for the various grades shown in Table 2 are based
Total Body
Hydrometer
on a viscosity of approximately 200 to 500 mm /s (cSt).
Measurement Range Length, Diameter,
Designation
mm mm
1H to 4H API Gravity –1 to 41°API 325 – 335 23 – 27
TABLE 2 Recommended Testing Temperatures for Various
21H to 28H API G
...

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: D3142/D3142M − 11 D3142/D3142M − 17
Standard Test Method for
Specific Gravity, API Gravity, or Density of Cutback Asphalts
by Hydrometer Method
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D3142/D3142M; 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
1.1 This test method covers the laboratory determination, using a glass hydrometer, of the density, specific gravity, or API
gravity of cutback asphalts as defined in Specifications D2026, D2027, and D2028 (Note 1). Values are measured on a hydrometer
at convenient temperatures, readings of density, specific gravity, and API gravity being reduced to 15°C15 °C or 60°F60 °F by
means of international standard tables. By means of these same tables, values determined in one of the three systems of
measurement are convertible to equivalent values in either system so that measurements may be made in the units of local
convenience.
NOTE 1—This test method is applicable to cutback asphalts and in general follows, but provides more explicit routines than, the procedure outlined
in Test Method D1298.
1.2 Units—The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated
in each system may not be exact equivalents; therefore, each system shall be used independently of the other. Combining values
from the two systems may result in nonconformance with the 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 safety, health, and healthenvironmental practices and determine the
applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. Specific precautionary statements are given in Section 7.
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.
2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:
C670 Practice for Preparing Precision and Bias Statements for Test Methods for Construction Materials
D140 Practice for Sampling Bituminous Materials
D1250 Guide for Use of the Petroleum Measurement Tables
D1298 Test Method for Density, Relative Density, or API Gravity of Crude Petroleum and Liquid Petroleum Products by
Hydrometer Method
D2026 Specification for Cutback Asphalt (Slow-Curing Type)
D2027 Specification for Cutback Asphalt (Medium-Curing Type)
D2028 Specification for Cutback Asphalt (Rapid-Curing Type)
E1 Specification for ASTM Liquid-in-Glass Thermometers
E100 Specification for ASTM Hydrometers
E220 Test Method for Calibration of Thermocouples By Comparison Techniques
3. Terminology
3.1 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
3.1.1 API gravity—a function of specific gravity 15/15°C [60/60°F],15/15 °C [60/60 °F], represented by the equation:
This test method is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D04 on Road and Paving Materials and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee D04.47 on
Miscellaneous Asphalt Tests.
Current edition approved Dec. 15, 2011Dec. 15, 2017. Published January 2012January 2018. Originally approved in 1972. Last previous edition approved in 20052011
as D3142 – 05.D3142/D3142M – 11. DOI: 10.1520/D3142/D3142M-11.10.1520/D3142/D3142M-17.
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.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
D3142/D3142M − 17
°API 5 141.5/SG 15/15°C 2 131.5 or
@ #
°API 5 @141.5/SG 60/60°F# 2 131.5
No statement of reference temperature is required since 15°C [60°F]15 °C [60 °F] is included in the definition.
3.1.2 density—Thethe mass of material per unit volume. When reporting results, explicitly state the density in units of mass
(kilograms) and volume (litres), together with the standard reference temperature.
3.1.3 observed values—values observed at temperatures other than the standard reference temperature. Values observed at other
temperatures are only hydrometer readings, and not density, relative density (specific gravity), or API gravity.
3.1.4 specific gravity—Thethe ratio of mass of a given volume of a material at a specified temperature to the mass of an equal
volume of pure water measured at the reference temperature. When reporting results, the standard reference temperature must be
stated.
4. Summary of Test Method
4.1 The sample is brought to the testing temperature and transferred to a hydrometer cylinder at approximately the same
temperature. The cylinder and its contents are placed in a constant-temperature bath to avoid excessive temperature variation
during the test. The appropriate hydrometer is lowered into the sample and allowed to settle. After temperature equilibrium, the
hydrometer is read and the temperature of the sample is noted.
4.2 The hydrometer reading is corrected to either 15°C15 °C or 60°F60 °F by referring to standard tables.
5. Significance and Use
5.1 Accurate determination of the density, specific gravity, or API gravity of cutback asphalts is necessary for the conversion
of measured volumes to volumes at the standard temperature of 15°C15 °C or 60°F.60 °F.
5.2 Similarly, accurate determination is necessary for converting volumes to mass as required in other ASTM tests on cutback
asphalts.
5.3 Values corrected to 15°C15 °C and 60°F60 °F will be different because the two temperatures are not equal.
6. Apparatus
6.1 Hydrometers, glass, graduated in units of specific gravity, API gravity, or density as required, as listed in Table 1 and in
accordance with Specification E100.
6.2 Thermometers—Thermometric Device—A calibrated ASTM Gravity Thermometer, having a range of –20 to 102°C or –5
to 215°F and conforming to the requirements for Thermometer 12°C or 12°F, respectively, liquid-in-glass, total-immersion
thermometer of suitable range with graduations at least every 0.2 °C [0.5 °F] and a maximum scale error of 0.15 °C [0.25 °F] as
prescribed in Specification E1, or an equivalent thermometric device that has been calibrated in accordance with Test Method .
Thermometer commonly used is 12C (12F). Any other thermometric device of equal accuracy may be used. E220. If a
thermohydrometer is used, the temperature scale shall have a range from 20 to 65°C65 °C or 60 to 220°F220 °F (Designation H).
6.3 Hydrometer Cylinder, clear glass, plastic (Note 2), or metal. For convenience in pouring, the cylinder may have a lip on the
rim. The inside diameter of the cylinder shall be at least 20 mm [ ⁄4 in.] greater than the outside diameter of the hydrometer used
TABLE 1 Recommended Hydrometers
Total Body
Hydrometer
Measurement Range Length, Diameter,
Designation
mm mm
1H to 4H API Gravity –1 to 41°API 325-335 23-27
1H to 4H API Gravity –1 to 41°API 325 – 335 23 – 27
21H to 28H API Gravity 0 to 41°API 158-168 12-15
21H to 28H API Gravity 0 to 41°API 158 – 168 12 – 15
85H to 90H Relative Density 0.8 to 1.1 325-335 23-27
(SG) 15.6/15.6°C
85H to 90H Relative Density 0.8 to 1.1 325 – 335 23 – 27
(SG) 15.6/15.6 °C
105H to 108H Relative Density 0.8 to 1.0 250-270 20-24
(SG) 15.6/15.6°C
105H to 108H Relative Density 0.8 to 1.0 250 – 270 20 – 24
(SG) 15.6/15.6 °C
315H to 320H Density at 15°C 800-1100 kg/m 325-335 21-27
315H to 320H Density at 15 °C 800 – 1100 kg/m 325 – 335 21 – 27
D3142/D3142M − 17
in it. The height of the cylinder shall be such that the hydrometer floats in the sample with at least 25 mm [1 in.] clearance between
the bottom of the hydrometer and the bottom of the cylinder.
NOTE 2—Hydrometer cylinders constructed of plastic materials should be resistant to discoloration or attack by oil samples and must not become
opaque by prolonged exposure to sunlight and oil samples.
6.4 Constant-Temperature Bath, capable of maintaining the testing temperature to 60.5°C [1.0°F]60.5 °C [1.0 °F] and of such
dimensions that the level of the liquid is approximately the same as that of the sample in the hydrometer cylinder.
6.5 Oven, for preheating the sample, and capable of maintaining the selected testing temperature to within 63°C [5°F].63 °C
[5 °F].
7. Hazards
7.1 Materials tested using this procedure may contain volatile and flammable hydrocarbons. Heat the sample in a covered
container to minimize loss of volatile components. Carry out the test in a well ventilated well-ventilated area, and avoid breathing
any vapors which may be generated. Keep sources of ignition away from materials being tested.
7.2 Warning—Mercury has been designated by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and many state
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 the EPA’s website (www.epa.gov/mercury/faq.htm)
for additional information. Users should be aware that selling mercury, mercury-containing products, or both, in your state may
be prohibited by state law.Warning: Mercury has been designated by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
and many state 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 M
...