ASTM D88/D88M-07 (2024) PDF

Full title and description

ASTM D88/D88M-07 (2024) — Standard Test Method for Saybolt Viscosity. This standard specifies empirical procedures for determining Saybolt Universal (SUS) and Saybolt Furol (SFS) viscosities of petroleum products using calibrated Saybolt viscometers; SI units are the primary units in the D88/D88M designation.

Abstract

This test method describes measurement of the efflux time (seconds) for 60 mL of sample flowing through a calibrated Saybolt Universal or Furol orifice at controlled temperatures (commonly in the range 21 to 99 °C / 70 to 210 °F), with corrections applied by orifice factors and special procedures for waxy products. The standard notes that kinematic methods (e.g., D445) are preferred where applicable and provides guidance on unit conversions (Practice D2161).

General information

• Status: Published / Current (reapproved and published as D88/D88M-07 (2024)).
• Publication date: May 1, 2024.
• Publisher: ASTM International.
• ICS / categories: 17.060 — Measurement of volume, mass, density, viscosity.
• Edition / version: D88/D88M-07 (2024) — reapproval/edit of the D88 series with metric (D88M) notation.
• Number of pages: 7 pages.

Scope

This standard covers procedures for determining Saybolt Universal and Saybolt Furol viscosities of petroleum products at specified temperatures between about 21 and 99 °C (70 and 210 °F), including a special procedure for waxy products. It clarifies that SI units are the standard and that kinematic viscosity test methods such as D445 (and conversion Practice D2161) are generally preferred for greater accuracy.

Key topics and requirements

• Saybolt viscometer apparatus (Universal and Furol configurations) and calibration requirements.
• Measurement of efflux time for 60 mL sample and application of orifice correction factors.
• Controlled-temperature bath requirements and specified test temperatures (typical range 21–99 °C / 70–210 °F).
• Special procedures for waxy or high-viscosity materials to ensure reliable efflux measurements.
• Unit conventions: SI units are primary; Saybolt units (SUS, SFS) retained for legacy reporting and convertible via Practice D2161.
• Notes on preference for kinematic methods (D445) for higher accuracy and smaller sample volumes.

Typical use and users

Used by petroleum testing laboratories, quality control and product specification groups in fuel and lubricant production, bituminous materials and roofing product testing, research laboratories, and regulatory/contract testing organizations that require Saybolt viscosity values or legacy unit reporting. Industry users employ this method for characterizing fuel oils, heavy oils, and other petroleum-derived fluids where Saybolt units remain specified.

Related standards

Commonly referenced/related ASTM standards and practices include: D445 (Standard Test Method for Kinematic Viscosity — preferred method for kinematic viscosity), D2161 (Practice for conversion between kinematic and Saybolt viscosities), and D2170/D2171 where applicable for bituminous materials. These documents provide alternative measurement methods, conversion tables, and context for modern viscosity testing practice.

Keywords

Saybolt, Saybolt Universal (SUS), Saybolt Furol (SFS), viscosity, efflux time, viscometer, petroleum products, fuel oil, bituminous, kinematic conversion, ASTM D88, D88M.

FAQ

Q: What is this standard?

A: ASTM D88/D88M-07 (2024) is the Standard Test Method for Saybolt Viscosity, describing empirical procedures to measure Saybolt Universal and Furol viscosities of petroleum products using Saybolt viscometers.

Q: What does it cover?

A: It covers apparatus and calibration, sample volume (60 mL) efflux-time measurement, temperature control (commonly 21–99 °C / 70–210 °F), correction factors, special procedures for waxy products, and guidance on units and conversions to/from kinematic viscosity.

Q: Who typically uses it?

A: Petrochemical and lubricant testing labs, QC/production groups, materials/test labs for roofing and bituminous products, standards bodies, and contract testing organizations that need Saybolt viscosity values or legacy compliance.

Q: Is it current or superseded?

A: This entry reflects the 2024 reapproval/publication of D88/D88M-07 and is listed as the current published edition as of May 1, 2024; it replaces earlier D88/D88M editions. Users should confirm the edition date when applying the method.

Q: Is it part of a series?

A: Yes — D88 is one of the historical Saybolt viscosity methods in the ASTM family and is commonly considered alongside related viscosity standards and practices (for example, D445 for kinematic viscosity and D2161 for conversions). The D88/D88M designation explicitly indicates both customary and SI (metric) unit presentations.

Q: What are the key keywords?

A: Saybolt, SUS, SFS, viscosity, efflux time, viscometer, petroleum products, kinematic conversion, D88, D88M.