ASTM D396-24

Standard Specification for Fuel Oils

ABSTRACT
This specification covers grades of fuel oil intended for use in various types of fuel-oil-burning equipment under various climatic and operating conditions. These grades include the following: Grades No. 1 S5000, No. 1 S500, No. 2 S5000, and No. 2 S500 for use in domestic and small industrial burners; Grades No. 1 S5000 and No. 1 S500 adapted to vaporizing type burners or where storage conditions require low pour point fuel; Grades No. 4 (Light) and No. 4 (Heavy) for use in commercial/industrial burners; and Grades No. 5 (Light), No. 5 (Heavy), and No. 6 for use in industrial burners. Preheating is usually required for handling and proper atomization. The grades of fuel oil shall be homogeneous hydrocarbon oils, free from inorganic acid, and free from excessive amounts of solid or fibrous foreign matter. Grades containing residual components shall remain uniform in normal storage and not separate by gravity into light and heavy oil components outside the viscosity limits for the grade. The grades of fuel oil shall conform to the limiting requirements prescribed for: (1) flash point, (2) water and sediment, (3) physical distillation or simulated distillation, (4) kinematic viscosity, (5) Ramsbottom carbon residue, (6) ash, (7) sulfur, (8) copper strip corrosion, (9) density, and (10) pour point. The test methods for determining conformance to the specified properties are given.
SCOPE
1.1 This specification (see Note 1) covers grades of fuel oil intended for use in various types of fuel-oil-burning equipment under various climatic and operating conditions. These grades are described as follows:  
1.1.1 Grades No. 1 S5000, No. 1 S500, No. 1 S15, No. 2 S5000, No. 2 S500, and No. 2 S15 are middle distillate fuels for use in domestic and small industrial burners. Grades No. 1 S5000, No. 1 S500, and No. 1 S15 are particularly adapted to vaporizing type burners or where storage conditions require low pour point fuel.  
1.1.2 Grades B6–B20 S5000, B6–B20 S500, and B6–B20 S15 are middle distillate fuel/biodiesel blends for use in domestic and small industrial burners.  
1.1.3 Grades No. 4 (Light) and No. 4 are heavy distillate fuels or middle distillate/residual fuel blends used in commercial/industrial burners equipped for this viscosity range.  
1.1.4 Grades No. 5 (Light), No. 5 (Heavy), and No. 6 are residual fuels of increasing viscosity and boiling range, used in industrial burners. Preheating is usually required for handling and proper atomization.  
Note 1: For information on the significance of the terminology and test methods used in this specification, see Appendix X1.
Note 2: A more detailed description of the grades of fuel oils is given in X1.3.  
1.2 This specification is for the use of purchasing agencies in formulating specifications to be included in contracts for purchases of fuel oils and for the guidance of consumers of fuel oils in the selection of the grades most suitable for their needs.  
1.3 Nothing in this specification shall preclude observance of federal, state, or local regulations which can be more restrictive.  
1.4 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard.  
1.4.1 Non-SI units are provided in Table 1 and Table 2 and in 7.1.2.1/7.1.2.2 because these are common units used in the industry.
Note 3: The generation and dissipation of static electricity can create problems in the handling of distillate burner fuel oils. For more information on the subject, see Guide D4865.  
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: 30-Apr-2024
• ICS: 75.160.20 - Liquid fuels
• Technical Committee: D02 - Petroleum Products, Liquid Fuels, and Lubricants
• Drafting Committee: D02.E0 - Burner, Diesel and Non-Aviation Gas Turbine Fuels

Overview

ASTM D396-24: Standard Specification for Fuel Oils is an internationally recognized standard developed by ASTM for specifying various grades of fuel oils intended for use in a range of fuel-oil-burning equipment. This standard is crucial for specifying fuel oil properties for domestic, commercial, and industrial burners under diverse climatic and operational conditions. ASTM D396-24 defines requirements for both middle distillate and residual fuel oils, ensuring consistency, safety, and performance for users and purchasing agencies.

Key Topics

• Fuel Oil Grades: Includes Grades No. 1 S5000, No. 1 S500, No. 1 S15, No. 2 S5000, No. 2 S500, No. 2 S15; biodiesel blends B6–B20 S5000, B6–B20 S500, B6–B20 S15; and heavier grades No. 4 (Light), No. 4, No. 5 (Light), No. 5 (Heavy), and No. 6.
• Intended Use: Covers fuel oils used in domestic heating, small and medium industrial burners, and heavy industrial/commercial burners requiring distinct physical and chemical fuel properties.
• Fuel Characteristics: Fuel oils must be homogeneous hydrocarbon products, free from inorganic acids and excessive solids or fibrous matter. Grades containing residual components should remain uniform during storage.
• Key Property Requirements: Fuel oils must meet strict limits for:
  • Flash point
  • Water and sediment content
  • Distillation characteristics
  • Viscosity
  • Carbon residue
  • Ash
  • Sulfur content
  • Copper strip corrosion
  • Density
  • Pour point
• Test Methods: The standard references approved ASTM test methods for verifying compliance with these limits.
• Biodiesel Blends: Includes specifications for blends of middle distillate fuels with biodiesel as defined by ASTM D6751, supporting sustainability initiatives.

Applications

ASTM D396-24 is a reference document for multiple stakeholders:

• Purchasing Agencies: Used in drafting procurement specifications for fuel oils in contracts to ensure fuel quality meets operational needs and legal requirements.
• Fuel Oil Suppliers and Producers: Serves as a basis for production, quality assurance, and product labeling.
• Consumers: Guides domestic, commercial, and industrial users in selecting the suitable fuel oil grade for heating and process systems.
• Regulatory Compliance: Ensures adherence to federal, state, and local regulations, especially regarding sulfur limitations and environmental performance.
• Blending and Storage: Provides performance and handling guidelines for fuel oil blends, including biodiesel content, and clarifies operability issues such as pour point in various climates and storage environments.
• International Trade: Facilitates cross-border acceptance and use through alignment with WTO principles for international standards.

Related Standards

ASTM D396-24 references and complements several key standards in the petroleum and fuels industry:

• ASTM D975: Specification for Diesel Fuel Oils
• ASTM D6751: Specification for Biodiesel Fuel Blendstock (B100)
• ASTM D86, D445, D93, D130: Test methods for distillation, viscosity, flash point, and corrosion respectively
• ASTM D2622, D5453, D4294: Methods for determining sulfur content
• ASTM D2709, D97: Methods for water/sediment and pour point determination
• ASTM D4057, D4177: Practice for sampling of petroleum products

Summary

ASTM D396-24 is the definitive standard for fuel oil specifications, ensuring product reliability, operational safety, regulatory compliance, and environmental stewardship. By following ASTM D396-24, stakeholders can confidently source, supply, and utilize fuel oils optimized for performance across a broad spectrum of applications and climatic conditions.

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: D396 − 24
Standard Specification for
Fuel Oils
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D396; 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.
This standard has been approved for use by agencies of the U.S. Department of Defense.
1. Scope* 1.4.1 Non-SI units are provided in Table 1 and Table 2 and
in 7.1.2.1/7.1.2.2 because these are common units used in the
1.1 This specification (see Note 1) covers grades of fuel oil
industry.
intended for use in various types of fuel-oil-burning equipment
NOTE 3—The generation and dissipation of static electricity can create
under various climatic and operating conditions. These grades
problems in the handling of distillate burner fuel oils. For more informa-
are described as follows:
tion on the subject, see Guide D4865.
1.1.1 Grades No. 1 S5000, No. 1 S500, No. 1 S15, No. 2
1.5 This international standard was developed in accor-
S5000, No. 2 S500, and No. 2 S15 are middle distillate fuels
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
for use in domestic and small industrial burners. Grades No. 1
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
S5000, No. 1 S500, and No. 1 S15 are particularly adapted to
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
vaporizing type burners or where storage conditions require
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
low pour point fuel.
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
1.1.2 Grades B6–B20 S5000, B6–B20 S500, and B6–B20
S15 are middle distillate fuel/biodiesel blends for use in
2. Referenced Documents
domestic and small industrial burners.
2.1 ASTM Standards:
1.1.3 Grades No. 4 (Light) and No. 4 are heavy distillate
D56 Test Method for Flash Point by Tag Closed Cup Tester
fuels or middle distillate/residual fuel blends used in
D86 Test Method for Distillation of Petroleum Products and
commercial/industrial burners equipped for this viscosity
Liquid Fuels at Atmospheric Pressure
range.
D93 Test Methods for Flash Point by Pensky-Martens
1.1.4 Grades No. 5 (Light), No. 5 (Heavy), and No. 6 are
Closed Cup Tester
residual fuels of increasing viscosity and boiling range, used in
D95 Test Method for Water in Petroleum Products and
industrial burners. Preheating is usually required for handling
Bituminous Materials by Distillation
and proper atomization.
D97 Test Method for Pour Point of Petroleum Products
NOTE 1—For information on the significance of the terminology and
D129 Test Method for Sulfur in Petroleum Products (Gen-
test methods used in this specification, see Appendix X1.
eral High Pressure Decomposition Device Method) (With-
NOTE 2—A more detailed description of the grades of fuel oils is given
drawn 2023)
in X1.3.
D130 Test Method for Corrosiveness to Copper from Petro-
1.2 This specification is for the use of purchasing agencies
leum Products by Copper Strip Test
in formulating specifications to be included in contracts for
D445 Test Method for Kinematic Viscosity of Transparent
purchases of fuel oils and for the guidance of consumers of fuel
and Opaque Liquids (and Calculation of Dynamic Viscos-
oils in the selection of the grades most suitable for their needs.
ity)
1.3 Nothing in this specification shall preclude observance
D473 Test Method for Sediment in Crude Oils and Fuel Oils
of federal, state, or local regulations which can be more
by the Extraction Method
restrictive.
D482 Test Method for Ash from Petroleum Products
D524 Test Method for Ramsbottom Carbon Residue of
1.4 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as
Petroleum Products
standard.
1 2
This specification is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D02 on For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
Petroleum Products, Liquid Fuels, and Lubricants and is the direct responsibility of contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM
Subcommittee D02.E0 on Burner, Diesel and Non-Aviation Gas Turbine Fuels. Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
Current edition approved May 1, 2024. Published May 2024. Originally the ASTM website.
approved in 1934. Last previous edition approved in 2021 as D396 – 21. DOI: The last approved version of this historical standard is referenced on
10.1520/D0396-24. www.astm.org.
*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
D396 − 24
D664 Test Method for Acid Number of Petroleum Products D6751 Specification for Biodiesel Fuel Blendstock (B100)
by Potentiometric Titration for Middle Distillate Fuels
D6892 Test Method for Pour Point of Petroleum Products
D975 Specification for Diesel Fuel
(Robotic Tilt Method)
D1266 Test Method for Sulfur in Petroleum Products (Lamp
D7039 Test Method for Sulfur in Gasoline, Diesel Fuel, Jet
Method)
Fuel, Kerosine, Biodiesel, Biodiesel Blends, and
D1298 Test Method for Density, Relative Density, or API
Gasoline-Ethanol Blends by Monochromatic Wavelength
Gravity of Crude Petroleum and Liquid Petroleum Prod-
Dispersive X-ray Fluorescence Spectrometry
ucts by Hydrometer Method
D7042 Test Method for Dynamic Viscosity and Density of
D1552 Test Method for Sulfur in Petroleum Products by
Liquids by Stabinger Viscometer (and the Calculation of
High Temperature Combustion and Infrared (IR) Detec-
Kinematic Viscosity)
tion or Thermal Conductivity Detection (TCD)
D7094 Test Method for Flash Point by Modified Continu-
D2500 Test Method for Cloud Point of Petroleum Products
ously Closed Cup (MCCCFP) Tester
and Liquid Fuels
D7220 Test Method for Sulfur in Automotive, Heating, and
D2622 Test Method for Sulfur in Petroleum Products by
Jet Fuels by Monochromatic Energy Dispersive X-ray
Wavelength Dispersive X-ray Fluorescence Spectrometry
Fluorescence Spectrometry
D2624 Test Methods for Electrical Conductivity of Aviation
D7344 Test Method for Distillation of Petroleum Products
and Distillate Fuels
and Liquid Fuels at Atmospheric Pressure (Mini Method)
D2709 Test Method for Water and Sediment in Middle
D7345 Test Method for Distillation of Petroleum Products
Distillate Fuels by Centrifuge
and Liquid Fuels at Atmospheric Pressure (Micro Distil-
D2887 Test Method for Boiling Range Distribution of Pe-
lation Method)
troleum Fractions by Gas Chromatography
D7346 Test Method for No Flow Point and Pour Point of
D3828 Test Methods for Flash Point by Small Scale Closed
Petroleum Products and Liquid Fuels
Cup Tester
D7371 Test Method for Determination of Biodiesel (Fatty
D4052 Test Method for Density, Relative Density, and API
Acid Methyl Esters) Content in Diesel Fuel Oil Using Mid
Gravity of Liquids by Digital Density Meter
Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR-ATR-PLS Method)
D4057 Practice for Manual Sampling of Petroleum and
D7688 Test Method for Evaluating Lubricity of Diesel Fuels
Petroleum Products
by the High-Frequency Reciprocating Rig (HFRR) by
D4177 Practice for Automatic Sampling of Petroleum and
Visual Observation
Petroleum Products D7861 Test Method for Determination of Fatty Acid Methyl
D4294 Test Method for Sulfur in Petroleum and Petroleum Esters (FAME) in Diesel Fuel by Linear Variable Filter
Products by Energy Dispersive X-ray Fluorescence Spec- (LVF) Array Based Mid-Infrared Spectroscopy
trometry D7945 Test Method for Determination of Dynamic Viscosity
and Derived Kinematic Viscosity of Liquids by Constant
D4306 Practice for Aviation Fuel Sample Containers for
Pressure Viscometer
Tests Affected by Trace Contamination
E29 Practice for Using Significant Digits in Test Data to
D4308 Test Method for Electrical Conductivity of Liquid
Determine Conformance with Specifications
Hydrocarbons by Precision Meter
2.2 Other Documents:
D4865 Guide for Generation and Dissipation of Static Elec-
26 CFR Part 48 Diesel Fuel Excise Tax; Dye Color and
tricity in Petroleum Fuel Systems
Concentration
D5453 Test Method for Determination of Total Sulfur in
EN 14078 Determination of Fatty Acid Methyl Ester
Light Hydrocarbons, Spark Ignition Engine Fuel, Diesel
(FAME) Content in Middle Distillates — Infrared Spec-
Engine Fuel, and Engine Oil by Ultraviolet Fluorescence
trometry Method
D5842 Practice for Sampling and Handling of Fuels for
EN 15751 Automotive Fuels—Fatty Acid Methyl Ester
Volatility Measurement
(FAME) Fuel and Blends with Diesel Fuel—
D5854 Practice for Mixing and Handling of Liquid Samples
Determination of Oxidation Stability by Accelerated Oxi-
of Petroleum and Petroleum Products
dation Method
D5949 Test Method for Pour Point of Petroleum Products
(Automatic Pressure Pulsing Method)
3. Terminology
D5950 Test Method for Pour Point of Petroleum Products
3.1 Definitions:
(Automatic Tilt Method)
3.1.1 additive, n—in fuel oils, a substance added to fuel oil
D5985 Test Method for Pour Point of Petroleum Products
at a blend level not greater than 1 % by volume of the finished
(Rotational Method)
fuel.
D6079 Test Method for Evaluating Lubricity of Diesel Fuels
by the High-Frequency Reciprocating Rig (HFRR)
D6469 Guide for Microbial Contamination in Fuels and Fuel
Available from U.S. Government Printing Office, Superintendent of
Systems
Documents, 732 N. Capitol St., NW, Mail Stop: SDE, Washington, DC 20401.
D6749 Test Method for Pour Point of Petroleum Products 5
Available from the National CEN members listed on the CEN website
(Automatic Air Pressure Method) (www.cenorm.be) or from the CEN/TC 19 Secretariat ([e-mail]).
D396 − 24
-4
3.1.1.1 Discussion—Additives are generally included in fin- 3.1.6.2 Discussion—mg/kg is equivalent to μg/g, 1×10 %
ished fuel oil to enhance performance properties (for example, by mass, and mass fraction 0.000001.
stability, pour point, and so forth).
3.1.6.3 Discussion—Most, but not all, test methods to de-
3.1.1.2 Discussion—Additives that contain hydrocarbon oil termine sulfur content mentioned in this specification produce
blended with other substances may exclude the hydrocarbon oil results in units of mg/kg. Consult the test method in use to
portion for determination of the volume percent of the finished determine units for a particular result.
fuel.
4. General Requirements
3.1.1.3 Discussion—Triglycerides (for example, vegetable
oils, animal fats, greases, and so forth) have been found to
4.1 The grades of fuel oil specified herein shall be hydro-
cause fouling of fuel oil burning equipment, and triglycerides
carbon oils, except as provided in 4.3, free from inorganic acid,
are therefore not allowed as additives or components of
and free from excessive amounts of solid or fibrous foreign
additives.
matter. The inclusion of additives to enhance performance
3.1.2 alternative blendstock, n—in diesel fuels and fuel oils,
properties, if required, is allowed.
a non-hydrocarbon oil substance added to diesel fuel or fuel oil
4.1.1 Additives may be included in fuel oil at a blend level
at blend levels greater than 1 % by volume of the finished fuel.
not greater than 1 % by volume of the finished fuel.
3.1.2.1 Discussion—An alternative blendstock should nor-
4.1.1.1 Additives are generally included in finished fuel oil
mally have an industry consensus standard or an annex in this
to enhance performance properties (for example, stability, pour
specification that defines its physical and chemical properties.
point, and so forth).
3.1.2.2 Discussion—See Appendix X3 for guidance regard-
4.1.1.2 Additives that contain hydrocarbon oil blended with
ing new materials for No. 1 and No. 2 grades of fuel oils.
other substances may exclude the hydrocarbon oil portion for
3.1.3 biodiesel, n—fuel comprised of mono-alkyl esters of
determination of the volume percent of the finished fuel.
long chain fatty acids derived from vegetable oils or animal
4.1.1.3 Triglycerides (for example, vegetable oils, animal
fats, designated B100.
fats, greases, and so forth) have been found to cause fouling of
fuel oil burning equipment, and triglycerides are therefore not
3.1.4 biodiesel blend (BXX), n—a homogeneous mixture of
allowed as additives or components of additives.
hydrocarbon oils and mono alkyl esters of long chain fatty
acids.
4.2 All grades containing residual components shall remain
3.1.4.1 Discussion—In the abbreviation BXX, the XX rep-
uniform in normal storage and not separate by gravity into light
resents the volume percentage of biodiesel in the blend.
and heavy oil components outside the viscosity limits for the
grade.
3.1.5 hydrocarbon oil, n—a homogeneous mixture with
elemental composition primarily of carbon and hydrogen that
4.3 Alternative Blendstocks:
may also contain sulfur, oxygen, or nitrogen from residual
4.3.1 Fuels Blended with Biodiesel—The detailed require-
impurities and contaminants associated with the fuel’s raw
ments for fuels blended with biodiesel shall be as follows:
materials and manufacturing processes and excluding added
4.3.1.1 Biodiesel for Blending—If biodiesel is a component
oxygenated materials.
of any fuel oil, the biodiesel shall meet the requirements of
3.1.5.1 Discussion—Neither macro nor micro emulsions are
Specification D6751.
included in this definition since neither are homogeneous
4.3.1.2 The remainder of the fuel oil shall be fuel oil
mixtures.
conforming to Specification D396 Grades No. 1 or No. 2 of any
3.1.5.2 Discussion—Examples of excluded oxygenated ma-
sulfur level specified, with the exception that fuel oil whose
terials are alcohols, esters, ethers, and triglycerides.
sulfur level falls outside of Specification D396 may be blended
3.1.5.3 Discussion—The hydrocarbon oil may be manufac-
with biodiesel meeting Specification D6751, provided the
tured from a variety of raw materials, for example, petroleum
finished mixture meets this specification.
(crude oil), oil sands, natural gas, coal, and biomass. Appendix
4.3.1.3 Fuel oil containing up to 5 % by volume biodiesel
X3 discusses some matters for consideration regarding the use
shall meet the requirements for the appropriate grade No. 1 or
of fuel oils from feedstocks other than petroleum.
No. 2 fuel as listed in Table 1.
3.1.6 S(numerical specification maximum), n—a part of the
4.3.1.4 Fuel oil containing 6 % to 20 % by volume biodiesel
grade name that states the maximum sulfur content in ppm by
shall meet the requirements for the appropriate grade B6 to
mass (mg/kg) allowed by this specification and formatted as S
B20 as listed in Table 1.
followed with no space by the numerical sulfur maximum.
4.3.1.5 Test Methods D7371, D7861, and EN 14078 may be
used for determination of the percent by volume biodiesel in a
3.1.6.1 Discussion—Of the fourteen fuel oil grades specified
biodiesel blend. In cases of dispute, Test Method D7371 shall
in this specification, nine have important distinguishing maxi-
be the referee test method. See Practice E29 for guidance on
mum sulfur regulatory requirements: Grades No. 1 S5000, No.
significant digits.
1 S500, No. 1 S15; No. 2 S5000, No. 2 S500, and No. 2 S15;
4.3.1.6 Fuel oils containing more than 20 % by volume
B6-B20 S5000, B6-B20 S500, and B6-B20 S15. The remain-
biodiesel component are not included in this specification.
ing grades are distinguished from these grades by other major
properties in addition to sulfur (unregulated maximum), and 4.3.1.7 Biodiesel blends with Grades 4, 5, or 6 are not
therefore are not included in this designation system. covered by this specification.
D396 − 24
A,B
TABLE 1 Detailed Requirements for Fuel Oils Conforming to Grades 1, 2 or B6–B20
No. 1 No. 2 B6–B20
Property ASTM Test Method
C C C
S15, S500, or S5000 S15, S500, or S5000 S15, S500, or S5000
Distillation Temperature, °C
10 % volume recovered, max 215 . .
D86
90 % volume recovered, min . 282 282
90 % volume recovered, max 288 338 343
Kinematic viscosity at 40 °C, mm /s
min D445 1.3 1.9 1.3
max 2.4 4.1 4.1
D
Sulfur, percent by mass, max
Grade S15 D5453 0.0015 0.0015 0.0015
Grade S500 D2622 0.05 0.05 0.05
Grade S5000 D2622 0.5 0.5 0.5
E
Pour Point °C, max D97 –18 –6 –6
Ramsbottom carbon residue on 10 % D524
0.15 0.35 0.35
distillation residue percent by mass, max
Density at 15 °C, kg/m , max D1298 850 876 876
Oxidation Stability, hours, min EN 15751 . . 6
Acid Number, mg KOH/g, max D664 . . 0.3
F
Biodiesel Content, percent (V/V) D7371 . . 6–20.
Requirements for all grades
Flash Point, °C, min D93 – Proc. A 38
Water and sediment, percent by volume, max D2709 0.05
G
Lubricity, HFRR @ 60 °C, micron, max D6079/D7688 520 520
Copper strip corrosion rating, max, D130
3 h at a minimum control No. 3
temperature of 50 °C
Conductivity (pS/m) or D2624/D4308
H
Conductivity Units (C.U.), min
A
It is the intent of these classifications that failure to meet any requirement of a given grade does not automatically place an oil in the next lower grade unless in fact it
meets all requirements of the lower grade. However, to meet special operating conditions, modifications of individual limiting requirements may be agreed upon among
the purchaser, seller, and manufacturer.
B
Refer to 7.1.2.1 for Low Temperature guidance for <1000 gal outside or unheated storage containers for the United States.
C
In the United States, under federal U.S. regulations, at or beyond terminal storage tanks, Grades No. 1 S5000, No. 1 S500, No. 1 S15, No. 2 S5000, No. 2 S500, No.
2 S15, B6–B20 S5000, B6–B20 S500, and B6–B20 S15 are required by 26 CFR Part 48 to contain the dye Solvent Red 164 at a concentration spectrally equivalent to
at least 3.9 lb of the solid dye standard Solvent Red 26 per thousand barrels of fuel oil.
D
Other sulfur limits may apply in selected areas in the United States and in other countries.
E
Lower or higher pour points can be specified whenever required by conditions of storage or use. When a pour point less than −18 °C is specified, the minimum viscosity
at 40 °C for grade No. 2 shall be 1.7 mm /s and the minimum 90 % recovered temperature shall be waived.
F
See subsection 4.3.1.3 on biodiesel content for grades other than B6–B20.
G
If the fuel oil is qualified under Table 1 of Specification D396 for lubricity, it is not necessary to measure the lubricity of the blend because the lubricity of the individual
blend components will be less than 520 μm so the resulting blend will also be less than 520 μm.
H
The electrical conductivity of the fuel oil is measured at the time and temperature of the fuel at delivery. The 25 pS/m minimum conductivity requirement applies at all
instances of high velocity transfer (7 m/s) but sometimes lower velocities, (see 8.1 for detailed requirements) into mobile transport (for example, tanker trucks, rail cars,
and barges).
5. Detailed Requirements tices provide techniques useful in the proper sampling or
handling of fuels oils.
5.1 The various grades of fuel oil shall conform to the
limiting requirements shown in Table 1 and Table 2. A
7. Test Methods
representative sample shall be taken for testing in accordance
7.1 The requirements enumerated in this specification shall
with Practice D4057.
be determined in accordance with the following ASTM test
5.2 Modifications of limiting requirements to meet special
methods, except as may be required under 7.1.1.
operating conditions agreed upon between the purchaser, the
7.1.1 Flash Point—Test Method D93 (Procedure A) for
seller, and the supplier shall fall within limits specified for each
Grades No. 1 S5000, No. 1 S500, No. 2 S5000, No. 2 S500,
grade, except as stated in supplementary footnotes for Table 1
and No. 4 (Light), and Test Method D93 (Procedure B) for
and Table 2.
Grades No. 4, No. 5 (Light), No. 5 (Heavy), and No. 6, except
where other methods are prescribed by law. For Grades No. 1
6. Sampling, Containers, and Sample Handling
S5000, No. 1 S500, No. 2 S5000, No. 2 S500, and No. 4
6.1 The reader is strongly advised to review all intended test
(Light), Test Methods D3828 and D7094 may be used as an
methods prior to sampling in order to understand the impor-
tance and effects of sampling technique, proper containers, and
special handling required for each test method.
For information on the precision of the ASTM test methods for fuel oils refer
to “An Evaluation of Methods for Determination of Sulfur in Fuel Oils” by A. R.
6.2 Correct sampling procedures are critical to obtaining a
Crawford, Esso Mathematics and Systems Inc. and G. V. Dyroff, Esso Research and
sample representative of the fuel oil to be tested. Refer to X1.4
Engineering Co., 1969. This document is available from the Publications Section,
for recommendations. The recommended procedures or prac- API Library, American Petroleum Institute, 1220 L St., NW, Washington, DC 20005.
D396 − 24
A,B
TABLE 2 Detailed Requirements for Fuel Oils Conforming to Grades No. 4, 5, or 6
Property No. 4 No. 5 No. 5
ASTM Test Method No. 4 No. 6
C
(Light) (Light) (Heavy)
Flash Point, °C, min D93—Proc. A 38 . . . .
D93—Proc. B . 55 55 55 60
Water and sediment,
D D D D D
D95 + D473 (0.50) (0.50) (1.00) (1.00) (2.00)
percent by volume, max
Kinematic viscosity at 40 °C, mm /s
min D445 1.9 >5.5 . . .
E
max 5.5 24.0 . . .
Kinematic viscosity at 100 °C, mm /s
min D445 . . 5.0 9.0 15.0
E E E
max . . 8.9 14.9 50.0
Ash, percent by mass, max D482 0.05 0.10 0.15 0.15 .
3 F
Density at 15 °C, kg/m , min D1298 >876 . . . .
G H
Pour Point °C, max D97 –6 –6 . .
A
It is the intent of these classifications that failure to meet any requirement of a given grade does not automatically place an oil in the next lower grade unless in fact it
meets all requirements of the lower grade. However, to meet special operating conditions, modifications of individual limiting requirements may be agreed upon among
the purchaser, seller, and manufacturer.
B
Refer to 7.1.2.1 for Low Temperature guidance for <1000 gal outside or unheated storage containers for the United States.
C
In the United States, under federal U.S. regulations, at or beyond terminal storage tanks, Grade No. 4 (Light) is required by 26 CFR Part 48 to contain the dye Solvent
Red 164 at a concentration spectrally equivalent to at least 3.9 lb of the solid dye standard Solvent Red 26 per thousand barrels of fuel oil.
D
The amount of water by distillation by Test Method D95 plus the sediment by extraction by Test Method D473 shall not exceed the value shown in the table. For Grade
No. 6 fuel oil, the amount of sediment by extraction shall not exceed 0.50 % by mass, and a deduction in quantity shall be made for all water and sediment in excess of
1.0 % by mass.
E
Where low sulfur fuel oil is required, fuel oil falling in the viscosity range of a lower numbered grade down to and including No. 4 can be supplied by agreement between
the purchaser and supplier. The viscosity range of the initial shipment shall be identified and advance notice shall be required when changing from one viscosity range
to another. This notice shall be in sufficient time to permit the user to make the necessary adjustments.
F
This limit ensures a minimum heating value and also prevents misrepresentation and misapplication of this product as Grade No. 2.
G
Lower or higher pour points can be specified whenever required by conditions of storage or use.
H
Where low sulfur fuel oil is required, Grade No. 6 fuel oil will be classified as Low Pour ( +15 °C max) or High Pour (no max). Low Pour fuel oil should be used unless
tanks and lines are heated.
alternative with the same limits. For Grades No. 1, No. 1 Low 7.1.2.3 The low temperature recommendations discussed in
Sulfur, No. 2, and No. 2 Low Sulfur, Test Method D56 may be X2.1.3 may be met by Test Method D2500 Cloud Point (or an
used as an alternative with the same limits, provided the flash approved alternative test method) or by Test Method D97 Pour
point is below 93 °C and the viscosity is below 5.5 mm /s at Point (or an approved alternative test method). If Pour Point is
40 °C. This test method will give slightly lower values. In used then the difference between the Cloud Point and the Low
cases of dispute, Test Method D93, with the appropriate Temperature guidance found in Table 3 should not exceed
procedure, shall be used as the referee method. 10 °C.
7.1.2 Pour Point—Test Method D97. For all grades, the 7.1.3 Water and Sediment—The water and sediment in
automatic Test Methods D5949, D5950, D5985, D6749, Grade No. 1 S500, No. 1 S5000, No. 2 S500, and No. 2 S5000
D6892, and D7346 may be used as alternatives with the same shall be determined in accordance with Test Method D2709
limits. In case of dispute, Test Method D97 shall be used as the and in Grade Nos. 4, 5, and 6 by Test Method D95 and Test
referee method. Alternative test methods that indicate flow Method D473. A density of 1.0 kg ⁄L shall be used for the Test
point properties can be used for low sulfur residual fuels by
Method D95 water.
agreement between purchaser and supplier. 7.1.4 Carbon Residue—Test Method D524.
7.1.2.1 The maximum Pour Point limits specified in Table 1
7.1.5 Ash—Test Method D482.
and Table 2 should be adequate under most circumstances for
7.1.6 Distillation—Distillation of Grade No. 1, No. 2, and
shipment and use of Fuel Oil from April through September
B6–B20 shall be determined in accordance with Test Methods
and in operations year round where larger storage tanks D86, D2887, D7344, or D7345. Results from Test Method
(>1000 gal) are in use and appropriate consideration has been
D2887 shall be reported as “Predicted D86” results by appli-
given to operating conditions as described in X2.1.2. cation of the correlation in Appendix X4 Test Method D2887 to
7.1.2.2 Table 3 lists 10th percentile ambient temperatures as
convert the values. Results from Test Method D7344 shall be
guidance for smaller Fuel Oil storage conditions (<1000 gal in reported as “Predicted D86” results by application of the
outside or unheated storage) in the United States (see X2.1.3,
corrections described in Test Method D7344 to improve
Current Practices). Appropriate low temperature operability agreement with D86 values. Results from Test Method D7345
properties should be agreed upon between the fuel supplier and
shall be reported as “Predicted D86” results by application of
purchaser for the intended use and expected ambient tempera- the corrections described in Test Method D7345 to improve
tures. The 10th percentile ambient temperatures are divided by
month (October through March) and by state or by specific
portion of a state. Smaller storage containers are commonly
Supporting data have been filed at ASTM International Headquarters and may
used and stored outside in home heating oil applications
be obtained by requesting Research Report RR:D02-1553. Contact ASTM Customer
(275 gal and 550 gal outside storage tanks are typical). Service at [e-mail].
D396 − 24
TABLE 3 Tenth Percentile Minimum Ambient Air Temperatures in °C for the United States (except Hawaii)
State Oct. Nov. Dec. Jan. Feb. March
Alabama 4 −3 −6 −7 −3 −2
Alaska
Northern −25 −37 −45 −49 −47 −43
Southern −11 −13 −18 −32 −32 −29
South East −4 −11 −16 −19 −13 −12
Arizona
North 34° latitude −4 −12 −14 −17 −16 −12
South 34° latitude 7 0 −2 −4 −3 −1
Arkansas 2 −4 −7 −11 −7 −3
California
North Coast 3 0 −2 −2 −1 −1
Interior 2 −3 −4 −7 −6 −6
South Coast 6 2 0 −1 0 2
Southeast 1 −6 −8 −11 −7 −5
Colorado
East 105° long −2 −12 −14 −19 −15 −12
West 105° long −8 −18 −25 −30 −24 −16
Connecticut −1 −7 −16 −17 −16 −9
Delaware 2 −3 −10 −11 −10 −6
Florida
North 29° latitude 7 1 −2 −3 −1 2
South 29° latitude 14 7 3 3 5 7
Georgia 3 −2 −6 −7 −6 −2
Idaho −4 −13 −18 −21 −18 −13
Illinois
North 40° latitude −1 −9 −19 −21 −18 −11
South 40° latitude 1 −7 −16 −17 −15 −8
Indiana −1 −7 −16 −18 −16 −9
Iowa −2 −13 −23 −26 −22 −16
Kansas −2 −11 −15 −19 −14 −13
Kentucky 1 −6 −13 −14 −11 −6
Louisiana 5 −1 −3 −4 −2 1
Maine −3 −10 −23 −26 −26 −18
Maryland 2 −3 −10 −12 −10 −4
Massachusetts −2 −7 −16 −18 −17 −10
Michigan −2 −11 −20 −23 −23 −18
Minnesota −4 −18 −30 −34 −31 −24
Mississippi 3 −3 −6 −6 −4 −1
Missouri 1 −7 −14 −16 −13 −8
Montana −7 −18 −24 −30 −24 −21
Nebraska −3 −13 −18 −22 −19 −13
Nevada
North 38° latitude −7 −14 −18 −22 −18 −13
South 38° latitude 8 0 −3 −4 −2 1
New Hampshire −3 −8 −18 −21 −21 −12
New Jersey 2 −3 −11 −12 −11 −6
New Mexico
North 34° latitude −2 −11 −14 −17 −14 −11
South 34° latitude 4 −4 −8 −11 −7 −3
New York
North 42° latitude −3 −8 −21 −24 −24 −16
South 42° latitude −1 −5 −14 −16 −15 −9
North Carolina −1 −7 −10 −11 −9 −5
North Dakota −4 −20 −27 −31 −29 −22
Ohio −1 −7 −16 −17 −15 −9
Oklahoma 1 −8 −12 −13 −8 −7
Oregon
East 122° long −6 −11 −14 −19 −14 −9
West 122° long 0 −4 −5 −7 −4 −3
Pennsylvania
North 41° latitude −3 −8 −19 −20 −21 −15
South 41° latitude 0 −6 −13 −14 −14 −8
Rhode Island 1 −3 −12 −13 −13 −7
South Carolina 5 −1 −5 −5 −3 −2
South Dakota −4 −14 −24 −27 −24 −18
Tennessee 1 −5 −9 −11 −9 −4
Texas
North 31° latitude 3 −6 −9 −13 −9 −7
South 31° latitude 9 2 −2 −3 −1 2
Utah −2 −11 −14 −18 −14 −8
Vermont −3 −8 −20 −23 −24 −15
Virginia 2 −3 −9 −11 −9 −4
Washington
East 122° long −2 −8 −11 −18 −11 −8
West 122° long 0 −3 −3 −7 −4 −3
D396 − 24
TABLE 3 Continued
State Oct. Nov. Dec. Jan. Feb. March
West Virginia −3 −8 −15 −16 −14 −9
Wisconsin −3 −14 −24 −28 −24 −18
Wyoming −4 −15 −18 −26 −19 −16
agreement with D86 values. In case of dispute, Test Method 7.1.11 Lubricity—Test Methods D6079 or D7688. Test
D86 shall be used as the referee test method. Method D6079 shall be the referee method.
7.1.7 Viscosity—Viscosity may be determined in accordance
7.1.12 Conductivity—Both conductivity test methods, Test
with Test Method D445, D7042, or D7945. Test Method
Methods D2624 and D4308 are allowed for all grades of No. 1
D7945 may be used with the same limits as Test Method D445
and No. 2 fuels. There is no conductivity requirement for
for Grades No. 1 through No. 4 and B6-B20. Bias-corrected
No. 4, No. 5, or No. 6 grades.
values from Test Method D7042 may be used as alternative
results for Test Method D445 with the same limits for all
8. Precautionary Notes on Conductivity
grades. Section 15 of Test Method D7042 contains bias-
correction information. In case of dispute, Test Method D445 8.1 Accumulation of static charge occurs when a hydrocar-
shall be used as the referee method.
bon liquid flows with
...

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: D396 − 21 D396 − 24
Standard Specification for
Fuel Oils
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D396; 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.
This standard has been approved for use by agencies of the U.S. Department of Defense.
1. Scope*
1.1 This specification (see Note 1) covers grades of fuel oil intended for use in various types of fuel-oil-burning equipment under
various climatic and operating conditions. These grades are described as follows:
1.1.1 Grades No. 1 S5000, No. 1 S500, No. 1 S15, No. 2 S5000, No. 2 S500, and No. 2 S15 are middle distillate fuels for use
in domestic and small industrial burners. Grades No. 1 S5000, No. 1 S500, and No. 1 S15 are particularly adapted to vaporizing
type burners or where storage conditions require low pour point fuel.
1.1.2 Grades B6–B20 S5000, B6–B20 S500, and B6–B20 S15 are middle distillate fuel/biodiesel blends for use in domestic and
small industrial burners.
1.1.3 Grades No. 4 (Light) and No. 4 are heavy distillate fuels or middle distillate/residual fuel blends used in commercial/
industrial burners equipped for this viscosity range.
1.1.4 Grades No. 5 (Light), No. 5 (Heavy), and No. 6 are residual fuels of increasing viscosity and boiling range, used in industrial
burners. Preheating is usually required for handling and proper atomization.
NOTE 1—For information on the significance of the terminology and test methods used in this specification, see Appendix X1.
NOTE 2—A more detailed description of the grades of fuel oils is given in X1.3.
1.2 This specification is for the use of purchasing agencies in formulating specifications to be included in contracts for purchases
of fuel oils and for the guidance of consumers of fuel oils in the selection of the grades most suitable for their needs.
1.3 Nothing in this specification shall preclude observance of federal, state, or local regulations which can be more restrictive.
1.4 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard.
1.4.1 Non-SI units are provided in Table 1 and Table 2 and in 7.1.2.1/7.1.2.2 because these are common units used in the industry.
NOTE 3—The generation and dissipation of static electricity can create problems in the handling of distillate burner fuel oils. For more information on
the subject, see Guide D4865.
This specification is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D02 on Petroleum Products, Liquid Fuels, and Lubricants and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee
D02.E0 on Burner, Diesel and Non-Aviation Gas Turbine Fuels.
Current edition approved April 1, 2021May 1, 2024. Published April 2021May 2024. Originally approved in 1934. Last previous edition approved in 20202021 as
D396 – 20.D396 – 21. DOI: 10.1520/D0396-21.10.1520/D0396-24.
*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
D396 − 24
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:
D56 Test Method for Flash Point by Tag Closed Cup Tester
D86 Test Method for Distillation of Petroleum Products and Liquid Fuels at Atmospheric Pressure
D93 Test Methods for Flash Point by Pensky-Martens Closed Cup Tester
D95 Test Method for Water in Petroleum Products and Bituminous Materials by Distillation
D97 Test Method for Pour Point of Petroleum Products
D129 Test Method for Sulfur in Petroleum Products (General High Pressure Decomposition Device Method) (Withdrawn 2023)
D130 Test Method for Corrosiveness to Copper from Petroleum Products by Copper Strip Test
D445 Test Method for Kinematic Viscosity of Transparent and Opaque Liquids (and Calculation of Dynamic Viscosity)
D473 Test Method for Sediment in Crude Oils and Fuel Oils by the Extraction Method
D482 Test Method for Ash from Petroleum Products
D524 Test Method for Ramsbottom Carbon Residue of Petroleum Products
D664 Test Method for Acid Number of Petroleum Products by Potentiometric Titration
D975 Specification for Diesel Fuel
D1266 Test Method for Sulfur in Petroleum Products (Lamp Method)
D1298 Test Method for Density, Relative Density, or API Gravity of Crude Petroleum and Liquid Petroleum Products by
Hydrometer Method
D1552 Test Method for Sulfur in Petroleum Products by High Temperature Combustion and Infrared (IR) Detection or Thermal
Conductivity Detection (TCD)
D2500 Test Method for Cloud Point of Petroleum Products and Liquid Fuels
D2622 Test Method for Sulfur in Petroleum Products by Wavelength Dispersive X-ray Fluorescence Spectrometry
D2624 Test Methods for Electrical Conductivity of Aviation and Distillate Fuels
D2709 Test Method for Water and Sediment in Middle Distillate Fuels by Centrifuge
D2887 Test Method for Boiling Range Distribution of Petroleum Fractions by Gas Chromatography
D3828 Test Methods for Flash Point by Small Scale Closed Cup Tester
D4052 Test Method for Density, Relative Density, and API Gravity of Liquids by Digital Density Meter
D4057 Practice for Manual Sampling of Petroleum and Petroleum Products
D4177 Practice for Automatic Sampling of Petroleum and Petroleum Products
D4294 Test Method for Sulfur in Petroleum and Petroleum Products by Energy Dispersive X-ray Fluorescence Spectrometry
D4306 Practice for Aviation Fuel Sample Containers for Tests Affected by Trace Contamination
D4308 Test Method for Electrical Conductivity of Liquid Hydrocarbons by Precision Meter
D4865 Guide for Generation and Dissipation of Static Electricity in Petroleum Fuel Systems
D5453 Test Method for Determination of Total Sulfur in Light Hydrocarbons, Spark Ignition Engine Fuel, Diesel Engine Fuel,
and Engine Oil by Ultraviolet Fluorescence
D5842 Practice for Sampling and Handling of Fuels for Volatility Measurement
D5854 Practice for Mixing and Handling of Liquid Samples of Petroleum and Petroleum Products
D5949 Test Method for Pour Point of Petroleum Products (Automatic Pressure Pulsing Method)
D5950 Test Method for Pour Point of Petroleum Products (Automatic Tilt Method)
D5985 Test Method for Pour Point of Petroleum Products (Rotational Method)
D6079 Test Method for Evaluating Lubricity of Diesel Fuels by the High-Frequency Reciprocating Rig (HFRR)
D6469 Guide for Microbial Contamination in Fuels and Fuel Systems
D6749 Test Method for Pour Point of Petroleum Products (Automatic Air Pressure Method)
D6751 Specification for Biodiesel Fuel Blendstock (B100) for Middle Distillate Fuels
D6892 Test Method for Pour Point of Petroleum Products (Robotic Tilt Method)
D7039 Test Method for Sulfur in Gasoline, Diesel Fuel, Jet Fuel, Kerosine, Biodiesel, Biodiesel Blends, and Gasoline-Ethanol
Blends by Monochromatic Wavelength Dispersive X-ray Fluorescence Spectrometry
D7042 Test Method for Dynamic Viscosity and Density of Liquids by Stabinger Viscometer (and the Calculation of Kinematic
Viscosity)
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.
The last approved version of this historical standard is referenced on www.astm.org.
D396 − 24
D7094 Test Method for Flash Point by Modified Continuously Closed Cup (MCCCFP) Tester
D7220 Test Method for Sulfur in Automotive, Heating, and Jet Fuels by Monochromatic Energy Dispersive X-ray Fluorescence
Spectrometry
D7344 Test Method for Distillation of Petroleum Products and Liquid Fuels at Atmospheric Pressure (Mini Method)
D7345 Test Method for Distillation of Petroleum Products and Liquid Fuels at Atmospheric Pressure (Micro Distillation
Method)
D7346 Test Method for No Flow Point and Pour Point of Petroleum Products and Liquid Fuels
D7371 Test Method for Determination of Biodiesel (Fatty Acid Methyl Esters) Content in Diesel Fuel Oil Using Mid Infrared
Spectroscopy (FTIR-ATR-PLS Method)
D7688 Test Method for Evaluating Lubricity of Diesel Fuels by the High-Frequency Reciprocating Rig (HFRR) by Visual
Observation
D7861 Test Method for Determination of Fatty Acid Methyl Esters (FAME) in Diesel Fuel by Linear Variable Filter (LVF) Array
Based Mid-Infrared Spectroscopy
D7945 Test Method for Determination of Dynamic Viscosity and Derived Kinematic Viscosity of Liquids by Constant Pressure
Viscometer
E29 Practice for Using Significant Digits in Test Data to Determine Conformance with Specifications
2.2 Other Documents:
26 CFR Part 48 Diesel Fuel Excise Tax; Dye Color and Concentration
40 CFR Part 80 Regulation of Fuel and Fuel Additives
EN 14078 Determination of Fatty Acid Methyl Ester (FAME) Content in Middle Distillates — Infrared Spectrometry Method
EN 15751 Automotive Fuels—Fatty Acid Methyl Ester (FAME) Fuel and Blends with Diesel Fuel—Determination of Oxidation
Stability by Accelerated Oxidation Method
3. Terminology
3.1 Definitions:
3.1.1 additive, n—in fuel oils, a substance added to fuel oil at a blend level not greater than 1 % by volume of the finished fuel.
3.1.1.1 Discussion—
Additives are generally included in finished fuel oil to enhance performance properties (for example, stability, pour point, and so
forth).
3.1.1.2 Discussion—
Additives that contain hydrocarbon oil blended with other substances may exclude the hydrocarbon oil portion for determination
of the volume percent of the finished fuel.
3.1.1.3 Discussion—
Triglycerides (for example, vegetable oils, animal fats, greases, and so forth) have been found to cause fouling of fuel oil burning
equipment, and triglycerides are therefore not allowed as additives or components of additives.
3.1.2 alternative blendstock, n—in diesel fuels and fuel oils, a non-hydrocarbon oil substance added to diesel fuel or fuel oil at
blend levels greater than 1 % by volume of the finished fuel.
3.1.2.1 Discussion—
An alternative blendstock should normally have an industry consensus standard or an annex in this specification that defines its
physical and chemical properties.
3.1.2.2 Discussion—
See Appendix X3 for guidance regarding new materials for No. 1 and No. 2 grades of fuel oils.
3.1.3 biodiesel, n—fuel comprised of mono-alkyl esters of long chain fatty acids derived from vegetable oils or animal fats,
designated B100.
3.1.4 biodiesel blend (BXX), n—a homogeneous mixture of hydrocarbon oils and mono alkyl esters of long chain fatty acids.
3.1.4.1 Discussion—
In the abbreviation BXX, the XX represents the volume percentage of biodiesel in the blend.
3.1.5 hydrocarbon oil, n—a homogeneous mixture with elemental composition primarily of carbon and hydrogen that may also
Available from U.S. Government Printing Office, Superintendent of Documents, 732 N. Capitol St., NW, Mail Stop: SDE, Washington, DC 20401.
Available from the National CEN members listed on the CEN website (www.cenorm.be) or from the CEN/TC 19 Secretariat ([e-mail]).
D396 − 24
contain sulfur, oxygen, or nitrogen from residual impurities and contaminants associated with the fuel’s raw materials and
manufacturing processes and excluding added oxygenated materials.
3.1.5.1 Discussion—
Neither macro nor micro emulsions are included in this definition since neither are homogeneous mixtures.
3.1.5.2 Discussion—
Examples of excluded oxygenated materials are alcohols, esters, ethers, and triglycerides.
3.1.5.3 Discussion—
The hydrocarbon oil may be manufactured from a variety of raw materials, for example, petroleum (crude oil), oil sands, natural
gas, coal, and biomass. Appendix X3 discusses some matters for consideration regarding the use of fuel oils from feedstocks other
than petroleum.
3.1.6 S(numerical specification maximum), n—a part of the grade name that states the maximum sulfur content in ppm by mass
(mg/kg) allowed by this specification and formatted as S followed with no space by the numerical sulfur maximum.
3.1.6.1 Discussion—
Of the fourteen fuel oil grades specified in this specification, nine have important distinguishing maximum sulfur regulatory
requirements: Grades No. 1 S5000, No. 1 S500, No. 1 S15; No. 2 S5000, No. 2 S500, and No. 2 S15; B6-B20 S5000, B6-B20
S500, and B6-B20 S15. The remaining grades are distinguished from these grades by other major properties in addition to sulfur
(unregulated maximum), and therefore are not included in this designation system.
3.1.6.2 Discussion—
-4
mg/kg is equivalent to μg/g, 1×10 % by mass, and mass fraction 0.000001.
3.1.6.3 Discussion—
Most, but not all, test methods to determine sulfur content mentioned in this specification produce results in units of mg/kg. Consult
the test method in use to determine units for a particular result.
4. General Requirements
4.1 The grades of fuel oil specified herein shall be hydrocarbon oils, except as provided in 4.3, free from inorganic acid, and free
from excessive amounts of solid or fibrous foreign matter. The inclusion of additives to enhance performance properties, if
required, is allowed.
4.1.1 Additives may be included in fuel oil at a blend level not greater than 1 % by volume of the finished fuel.
4.1.1.1 Additives are generally included in finished fuel oil to enhance performance properties (for example, stability, pour point,
and so forth).
4.1.1.2 Additives that contain hydrocarbon oil blended with other substances may exclude the hydrocarbon oil portion for
determination of the volume percent of the finished fuel.
4.1.1.3 Triglycerides (for example, vegetable oils, animal fats, greases, and so forth) have been found to cause fouling of fuel oil
burning equipment, and triglycerides are therefore not allowed as additives or components of additives.
4.2 All grades containing residual components shall remain uniform in normal storage and not separate by gravity into light and
heavy oil components outside the viscosity limits for the grade.
4.3 Alternative Blendstocks:
4.3.1 Fuels Blended with Biodiesel—The detailed requirements for fuels blended with biodiesel shall be as follows:
4.3.1.1 Biodiesel for Blending—If biodiesel is a component of any fuel oil, the biodiesel shall meet the requirements of
Specification D6751.
4.3.1.2 The remainder of the fuel oil shall be fuel oil conforming to Specification D396 Grades No. 1 or No. 2 of any sulfur level
specified, with the exception that fuel oil whose sulfur level falls outside of Specification D396 may be blended with biodiesel
meeting Specification D6751, provided the finished mixture meets this specification.
4.3.1.3 Fuel oil containing up to 5 % by volume biodiesel shall meet the requirements for the appropriate grade No. 1 or No. 2
fuel as listed in Table 1.
D396 − 24
A,B
TABLE 1 Detailed Requirements for Fuel Oils Conforming to Grades 1, 2 or B6–B20
No. 1 No. 2 B6–B20
Property ASTM Test Method
C C C
S15, S500, or S5000 S15, S500, or S5000 S15, S500, or S5000
Distillation Temperature, °C
10 % volume recovered, max 215 . .
D86
90 % volume recovered, min . 282 282
90 % volume recovered, max 288 338 343
Kinematic viscosity at 40 °C, mm /s
min D445 1.3 1.9 1.3
max 2.4 4.1 4.1
D
Sulfur, percent by mass, max
Grade S15 D5453 0.0015 0.0015 0.0015
Grade S500 D2622 0.05 0.05 0.05
Grade S5000 D2622 0.5 0.5 0.5
E
Pour Point °C, max D97 –18 –6 –6
Ramsbottom carbon residue on 10 % D524
0.15 0.35 0.35
distillation residue percent by mass, max
Density at 15 °C, kg/m , max D1298 850 876 876
Oxidation Stability, hours, min EN 15751 . . 6
Acid Number, mg KOH/g, max D664 . . 0.3
F
Biodiesel Content, percent (V/V) D7371 . . 6–20.
Requirements for all grades
Flash Point, °C, min D93 – Proc. A 38
Water and sediment, percent by volume, max D2709 0.05
G
Lubricity, HFRR @ 60 °C, micron, max D6079/D7688 520 520
Copper strip corrosion rating, max, D130
3 h at a minimum control No. 3
temperature of 50 °C
Conductivity (pS/m) or D2624/D4308
H
Conductivity Units (C.U.), min
A
It is the intent of these classifications that failure to meet any requirement of a given grade does not automatically place an oil in the next lower grade unless in fact it
meets all requirements of the lower grade. However, to meet special operating conditions, modifications of individual limiting requirements may be agreed upon among
the purchaser, seller, and manufacturer.
B
Refer to 7.1.2.1 for Low Temperature guidance for <1000 gal outside or unheated storage containers for the United States.
C
Under United States regulations, In the United States, under federal U.S. regulations, at or beyond terminal storage tanks, Grades No. 1 S5000, No. 1 S500, No. 1 S15,
No. 2 S5000, No. 2 S500, No. 2 S15, B6–B20 S5000, B6–B20 S500, and B6–B20 S15 are required by 40 CFR Part 80 to contain a sufficient amount of the dye Solvent
Red 164 so its presence is visually apparent. At or beyond terminal storage tanks, they are required by 26 CFR Part 48 to contain the dye Solvent Red 164 at a
concentration spectrally equivalent to at least 3.9 lb of the solid dye standard Solvent Red 26 per thousand barrels of fuel oil.
D
Other sulfur limits may apply in selected areas in the United States and in other countries.
E
Lower or higher pour points can be specified whenever required by conditions of storage or use. When a pour point less than −18 °C is specified, the minimum viscosity
at 40 °C for grade No. 2 shall be 1.7 mm /s and the minimum 90 % recovered temperature shall be waived.
F
See subsection 4.3.1.3 on biodiesel content for grades other than B6–B20.
G
If the fuel oil is qualified under Table 1 of Specification D396 for lubricity, it is not necessary to measure the lubricity of the blend because the lubricity of the individual
blend components will be less than 520 μm so the resulting blend will also be less than 520 μm.
H
The electrical conductivity of the fuel oil is measured at the time and temperature of the fuel at delivery. The 25 pS/m minimum conductivity requirement applies at all
instances of high velocity transfer (7 m/s) but sometimes lower velocities, (see 8.1 for detailed requirements) into mobile transport (for example, tanker trucks, rail cars,
and barges).
4.3.1.4 Fuel oil containing 6 % to 20 % by volume biodiesel shall meet the requirements for the appropriate grade B6 to B20 as
listed in Table 1.
4.3.1.5 Test Methods D7371, D7861, and EN 14078 may be used for determination of the percent by volume biodiesel in a
biodiesel blend. In cases of dispute, Test Method D7371 shall be the referee test method. See Practice E29 for guidance on
significant digits.
4.3.1.6 Fuel oils containing more than 20 % by volume biodiesel component are not included in this specification.
4.3.1.7 Biodiesel blends with Grades 4, 5, or 6 are not covered by this specification.
5. Detailed Requirements
5.1 The various grades of fuel oil shall conform to the limiting requirements shown in Table 1 and Table 2. A representative sample
shall be taken for testing in accordance with Practice D4057.
5.2 Modifications of limiting requirements to meet special operating conditions agreed upon between the purchaser, the seller, and
the supplier shall fall within limits specified for each grade, except as stated in supplementary footnotes for Table 1 and Table 2.
D396 − 24
A,B
TABLE 2 Detailed Requirements for Fuel Oils Conforming to Grades No. 4, 5, or 6
Property No. 4 No. 5 No. 5
ASTM Test Method No. 4 No. 6
C
(Light) (Light) (Heavy)
Flash Point, °C, min D93—Proc. A 38 . . . .
D93—Proc. B . 55 55 55 60
Water and sediment,
D D D D D
D95 + D473 (0.50) (0.50) (1.00) (1.00) (2.00)
percent by volume, max
Kinematic viscosity at 40 °C, mm /s
min D445 1.9 >5.5 . . .
E
max 5.5 24.0 . . .
Kinematic viscosity at 100 °C, mm /s
min D445 . . 5.0 9.0 15.0
E E E
max . . 8.9 14.9 50.0
Ash, percent by mass, max D482 0.05 0.10 0.15 0.15 .
3 F
Density at 15 °C, kg/m , min D1298 >876 . . . .
G H
Pour Point °C, max D97 –6 –6 . .
A
It is the intent of these classifications that failure to meet any requirement of a given grade does not automatically place an oil in the next lower grade unless in fact it
meets all requirements of the lower grade. However, to meet special operating conditions, modifications of individual limiting requirements may be agreed upon among
the purchaser, seller, and manufacturer.
B
Refer to 7.1.2.1 for Low Temperature guidance for <1000 gal outside or unheated storage containers for the United States.
C
Under United States regulations, Grade No. 4 (Light) is required by 40 CFR Part 80 to contain a sufficient amount of the dye Solvent Red 164 so its presence is visually
apparent. At In the United States, under federal U.S. regulations, at or beyond terminal storage tanks, it Grade No. 4 (Light) is required by 26 CFR Part 48 to contain the
dye Solvent Red 164 at a concentration spectrally equivalent to at least 3.9 lb of the solid dye standard Solvent Red 26 per thousand barrels of fuel oil.
D
The amount of water by distillation by Test Method D95 plus the sediment by extraction by Test Method D473 shall not exceed the value shown in the table. For Grade
No. 6 fuel oil, the amount of sediment by extraction shall not exceed 0.50 % by mass, and a deduction in quantity shall be made for all water and sediment in excess of
1.0 % by mass.
E
Where low sulfur fuel oil is required, fuel oil falling in the viscosity range of a lower numbered grade down to and including No. 4 can be supplied by agreement between
the purchaser and supplier. The viscosity range of the initial shipment shall be identified and advance notice shall be required when changing from one viscosity range
to another. This notice shall be in sufficient time to permit the user to make the necessary adjustments.
F
This limit ensures a minimum heating value and also prevents misrepresentation and misapplication of this product as Grade No. 2.
G
Lower or higher pour points can be specified whenever required by conditions of storage or use.
H
Where low sulfur fuel oil is required, Grade No. 6 fuel oil will be classified as Low Pour ( +15 °C max) or High Pour (no max). Low Pour fuel oil should be used unless
tanks and lines are heated.
6. Sampling, Containers, and Sample Handling
6.1 The reader is strongly advised to review all intended test methods prior to sampling in order to understand the importance and
effects of sampling technique, proper containers, and special handling required for each test method.
6.2 Correct sampling procedures are critical to obtaining a sample representative of the fuel oil to be tested. Refer to X1.4 for
recommendations. The recommended procedures or practices provide techniques useful in the proper sampling or handling of fuels
oils.
7. Test Methods
7.1 The requirements enumerated in this specification shall be determined in accordance with the following ASTM test methods,
except as may be required under 7.1.1.
7.1.1 Flash Point—Test Method D93 (Procedure A) for Grades No. 1 S5000, No. 1 S500, No. 2 S5000, No. 2 S500, and No. 4
(Light), and Test Method D93 (Procedure B) for Grades No. 4, No. 5 (Light), No. 5 (Heavy), and No. 6, except where other
methods are prescribed by law. For Grades No. 1 S5000, No. 1 S500, No. 2 S5000, No. 2 S500, and No. 4 (Light), Test Methods
D3828 and D7094 may be used as an alternative with the same limits. For Grades No. 1, No. 1 Low Sulfur, No. 2, and No. 2 Low
Sulfur, Test Method D56 may be used as an alternative with the same limits, provided the flash point is below 93 °C and the
viscosity is below 5.5 mm /s at 40 °C. This test method will give slightly lower values. In cases of dispute, Test Method D93, with
the appropriate procedure, shall be used as the referee method.
7.1.2 Pour Point—Test Method D97. For all grades, the automatic Test Methods D5949, D5950, D5985, D6749, D6892, and
D7346 may be used as alternatives with the same limits. In case of dispute, Test Method D97 shall be used as the referee method.
Alternative test methods that indicate flow point properties can be used for low sulfur residual fuels by agreement between
purchaser and supplier.
For information on the precision of the ASTM test methods for fuel oils refer to “An Evaluation of Methods for Determination of Sulfur in Fuel Oils” by A. R. Crawford,
Esso Mathematics and Systems Inc. and G. V. Dyroff, Esso Research and Engineering Co., 1969. This document is available from the Publications Section, API Library,
American Petroleum Institute, 1220 L St., NW, Washington, DC 20005.
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7.1.2.1 The maximum Pour Point limits specified in Table 1 and Table 2 should be adequate under most circumstances for
shipment and use of Fuel Oil from April through September and in operations year round where larger storage tanks (>1000 gal)
are in use and appropriate consideration has been given to operating conditions as described in X2.1.2.
7.1.2.2 Table 3 lists 10th percentile ambient temperatures as guidance for smaller Fuel Oil storage conditions (<1000 gal in outside
or unheated storage) in the United States (see X2.1.3, Current Practices). Appropriate low temperature operability properties should
be agreed upon between the fuel supplier and purchaser for the intended use and expected ambient temperatures. The 10th
percentile ambient temperatures are divided by month (October through March) and by state or by specific portion of a state.
Smaller storage containers are commonly used and stored outside in home heating oil applications (275 gal and 550 gal outside
storage tanks are typical).
7.1.2.3 The low temperature recommendations discussed in X2.1.3 may be met by Test Method D2500 Cloud Point (or an
approved alternative test method) or by Test Method D97 Pour Point (or an approved alternative test method). If Pour Point is used
then the difference between the Cloud Point and the Low Temperature guidance found in Table 3 should not exceed 10 °C.
7.1.3 Water and Sediment—The water and sediment in Grade No. 1 S500, No. 1 S5000, No. 2 S500, and No. 2 S5000 shall be
determined in accordance with Test Method D2709 and in Grade Nos. 4, 5, and 6 by Test Method D95 and Test Method D473.
A density of 1.0 kg ⁄L shall be used for the Test Method D95 water.
7.1.4 Carbon Residue—Test Method D524.
7.1.5 Ash—Test Method D482.
7.1.6 Distillation—Distillation of Grade No. 1, No. 2, and B6–B20 shall be determined in accordance with Test Methods D86,
D2887, D7344, or D7345. Results from Test Method D2887 shall be reported as “Predicted D86” results by application of the
correlation in Appendix X4 Test Method D2887 to convert the values. Results from Test Method D7344 shall be reported as
“Predicted D86” results by application of the corrections described in Test Method D7344 to improve agreement with D86 values.
Results from Test Method D7345 shall be reported as “Predicted D86” results by application of the corrections described in Test
Method D7345 to improve agreement with D86 values. In case of dispute, Test Method D86 shall be used as the referee test
method.
7.1.7 Viscosity—Viscosity may be determined in accordance with Test Method D445, D7042, or D7945. Test Method D7945 may
be used with the same limits as Test Method D445 for Grades No. 1 through No. 4 and B6-B20. Bias-corrected values from Test
Method D7042 may be used as alternative results for Test Method D445 with the same limits for all grades. Section 15 of Test
Method D7042 contains bias-correction information. In case of dispute, Test Method D445 shall be used as the referee method.
7.1.8 Density—Test Method D1298. Test Method D4052 can be used as an alternative with the same limits. In case of dispute,
Test Method D1298 shall be used as the referee method.
7.1.9 Corrosion—Test Method D130, 3 h test at a minimum control temperature of 50 °C.
7.1.10 Sulfur—Test Methods D2622 for all grades except S15 and D5453 for S15 grades. See Table 4 for alternative test methods
for sulfur and the corresponding fuel grades.
7.1.11 Lubricity—Test Methods D6079 or D7688. Test Method D6079 shall be the referee method.
7.1.12 Conductivity—Both conductivity test methods, Test Methods D2624 and D4308 are allowed for all grades of No. 1 and No.
2 fuels. There is no conductivity requirement for No. 4, No. 5, or No. 6 grades.
8. Precautionary Notes on Conductivity
8.1 Accumulation of static charge occurs when a hydrocarbon liquid flows with respect to another surface. The electrical
conductivity requirement of 25 pS ⁄m minimum at temperature of delivery shall apply when the transfer conditions in Table 5 exist
for the delivery into a mobile transport container (for example, tanker trucks, railcars, and barges).
Supporting data have been filed at ASTM International Headquarters and may be obtained by requesting Research Report RR:D02-1553. Contact ASTM Customer
Service at [e-mail].
D396 − 24
TABLE 3 Tenth Percentile Minimum Ambient Air Temperatures in °C for the United States (except Hawaii)
State Oct. Nov. Dec. Jan. Feb. March
Alabama 4 −3 −6 −7 −3 −2
Alaska
Northern −25 −37 −45 −49 −47 −43
Southern −11 −13 −18 −32 −32 −29
South East −4 −11 −16 −19 −13 −12
Arizona
North 34° latitude −4 −12 −14 −17 −16 −12
South 34° latitude 7 0 −2 −4 −3 −1
Arkansas 2 −4 −7 −11 −7 −3
California
North Coast 3 0 −2 −2 −1 −1
Interior 2 −3 −4 −7 −6 −6
South Coast 6 2 0 −1 0 2
Southeast 1 −6 −8 −11 −7 −5
Colorado
East 105° long −2 −12 −14 −19 −15 −12
West 105° long −8 −18 −25 −30 −24 −16
Connecticut −1 −7 −16 −17 −16 −9
Delaware 2 −3 −10 −11 −10 −6
Florida
North 29° latitude 7 1 −2 −3 −1 2
South 29° latitude 14 7 3 3 5 7
Georgia 3 −2 −6 −7 −6 −2
Idaho −4 −13 −18 −21 −18 −13
Illinois
North 40° latitude −1 −9 −19 −21 −18 −11
South 40° latitude 1 −7 −16 −17 −15 −8
Indiana −1 −7 −16 −18 −16 −9
Iowa −2 −13 −23 −26 −22 −16
Kansas −2 −11 −15 −19 −14 −13
Kentucky 1 −6 −13 −14 −11 −6
Louisiana 5 −1 −3 −4 −2 1
Maine −3 −10 −23 −26 −26 −18
Maryland 2 −3 −10 −12 −10 −4
Massachusetts −2 −7 −16 −18 −17 −10
Michigan −2 −11 −20 −23 −23 −18
Minnesota −4 −18 −30 −34 −31 −24
Mississippi 3 −3 −6 −6 −4 −1
Missouri 1 −7 −14 −16 −13 −8
Montana −7 −18 −24 −30 −24 −21
Nebraska −3 −13 −18 −22 −19 −13
Nevada
North 38° latitude −7 −14 −18 −22 −18 −13
South 38° latitude 8 0 −3 −4 −2 1
New Hampshire −3 −8 −18 −21 −21 −12
New Jersey 2 −3 −11 −12 −11 −6
New Mexico
North 34° latitude −2 −11 −14 −17 −14 −11
South 34° latitude 4 −4 −8 −11 −7 −3
New York
North 42° latitude −3 −8 −21 −24 −24 −16
South 42° latitude −1 −5 −14 −16 −15 −9
North Carolina −1 −7 −10 −11 −9 −5
North Dakota −4 −20 −27 −31 −29 −22
Ohio −1 −7 −16 −17 −15 −9
Oklahoma 1 −8 −12 −13 −8 −7
Oregon
East 122° long −6 −11 −14 −19 −14 −9
West 122° long 0 −4 −5 −7 −4 −3
Pennsylvania
North 41° latitu
...