ASTM D61-15(R2019) pdf free download

ASTM D61-15(R2019) pdf free download.Standard Test Method for Softening Point of Pitches (Cube-in-Water Method)
1. Scope
1.1 This test method covers the determination of the soft- ening point of pitches below 176 °F (80 °C). Pitches of higher softening point should be tested by Test Method D2319 or Test Method D3104. 1.2 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard. 1.3 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 appro- priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter- mine the applicability ofregulatory limitations prior to use. 1.4 This international standard was developed in accor- dance with internationally recognized principles on standard- ization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom- mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
3. Terminology
3.1 Definitions: 3.1.1 Digital Contact Thermometer (DCT), n—an electronic device consisting of a digital display and associated tempera- ture sensing probe. 3.1.1.1 Discussion—This device consists of a temperature sensor connected to a measuring instrument; this instrument measures the temperature-dependent quantity of the sensor, computes the temperature from the measured quantity, and provides a digital output or display, or both, ofthe temperature. The temperature sensing probe is in contact with the material whose temperature is being measured. This device is some- times referred to as a digital thermometer. N OTE 1—Portable electronic thermometers (PET) is an acronym some- times used to refer to a subset of the devices covered by this definition.
4. Summary of Test Method
4.1 Two cubes ofpitch, supported on wire hooks, are heated at a controlled rate in water in a glass container. The softening point is defined as the mean of the temperatures at which the cubes sag downwards a distance of 25 mm.
5. Significance and Use
5.1 Pitch does not go through a solid-liquid phase change when heated, and therefore it does not have a true melting point. As the temperature rises, pitch softens and becomes less viscous. The softening point is arbitrarily defined and shall be established by a closely controlled method which shall be carefully followed if test results are to be reproducible. 5.2 This test is useful in determining the consistency of pitch as one element in establishing the uniformity of ship- ments or sources of supply.
6. Apparatus
6.1 Mold—A mold suitable for forming two 1 ⁄ 2 in. (12.7 mm) cubes of pitch, having cylindrical core pins 12 gauge (2.05 mm) in diameter located in the base plate of the assembly to produce accurately centered suspension holes in the cubes. (See Fig. 1.)
6.2 Hooks—Two L-shaped hooks, made of 12 gauge (2.05 mm) copper wire. The foot of the hook shall be 1 in. (25 mm) long and at a right angle to the upright portion for insertion into the center hole of the pitch cube. 6.3 Container—A glass vessel that can be heated, not less than 85 mm in diameter and 105 mm deep. (Astandard 600 mL low-form beaker meets these requirements). 6.4 Temperature Measuring Device—Use either a calibrated DCT meeting the requirements described in 6.4.1 or liquid-in- glass thermometers described in 6.4.2. A DCT or calibrated liquid-in-glass thermometer shall be used as the thermometer for temperature measurement independent of the instrument’s temperature control, and shall be located in the thermowell. N OTE 2—The display device and sensor must be correctly paired. Incorrect pairing will result in temperature measurement errors and possibly irreversible damage to the electronics of the display.