ASTM D396-21
(Specification)Standard Specification for Fuel Oils
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
Relations
Buy Standard
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 −21
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.Anumber 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 Table1 and Table2 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.
intendedforuseinvarioustypesoffuel-oil-burningequipment
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
D56Test Method for Flash Point by Tag Closed Cup Tester
fuels or middle distillate/residual fuel blends used in
D86Test Method for Distillation of Petroleum Products and
commercial/industrial burners equipped for this viscosity
Liquid Fuels at Atmospheric Pressure
range.
D93Test Methods for Flash Point by Pensky-Martens
1.1.4 Grades No. 5 (Light), No. 5 (Heavy), and No. 6 are
Closed Cup Tester
residualfuelsofincreasingviscosityandboilingrange,usedin
D95Test Method for Water in Petroleum Products and
industrial burners. Preheating is usually required for handling
Bituminous Materials by Distillation
and proper atomization.
D97Test Method for Pour Point of Petroleum Products
NOTE 1—For information on the significance of the terminology and
D129Test Method for Sulfur in Petroleum Products (Gen-
test methods used in this specification, see Appendix X1.
eral High Pressure Decomposition Device Method)
NOTE 2—Amore detailed description of the grades of fuel oils is given
D130Test Method for Corrosiveness to Copper from Petro-
in X1.3.
leum Products by Copper Strip Test
1.2 This specification is for the use of purchasing agencies
D445Test Method for Kinematic Viscosity of Transparent
in formulating specifications to be included in contracts for
and Opaque Liquids (and Calculation of DynamicViscos-
purchasesoffueloilsandfortheguidanceofconsumersoffuel
ity)
oils in the selection of the grades most suitable for their needs.
D473TestMethodforSedimentinCrudeOilsandFuelOils
1.3 Nothing in this specification shall preclude observance
by the Extraction Method
of federal, state, or local regulations which can be more D482Test Method for Ash from Petroleum Products
restrictive.
D524Test Method for Ramsbottom Carbon Residue of
Petroleum Products
1.4 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as
D664Test Method for Acid Number of Petroleum Products
standard.
by Potentiometric Titration
D975Specification for Diesel Fuel
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. For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
Current edition approved April 1, 2021. Published April 2021. Originally contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM
approved in 1934. Last previous edition approved in 2020 as D396–20. DOI: Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
10.1520/D0396-21. the ASTM website.
*A Summary of Changes section appears at the end of this standard
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
D396−21
D1266TestMethodforSulfurinPetroleumProducts(Lamp D7039Test Method for Sulfur in Gasoline, Diesel Fuel, Jet
Method) Fuel, Kerosine, Biodiesel, Biodiesel Blends, and
Gasoline-Ethanol Blends by Monochromatic Wavelength
D1298Test Method for Density, Relative Density, or API
Gravity of Crude Petroleum and Liquid Petroleum Prod- Dispersive X-ray Fluorescence Spectrometry
D7042Test Method for Dynamic Viscosity and Density of
ucts by Hydrometer Method
Liquids by Stabinger Viscometer (and the Calculation of
D1552Test Method for Sulfur in Petroleum Products by
Kinematic Viscosity)
High Temperature Combustion and Infrared (IR) Detec-
D7094Test Method for Flash Point by Modified Continu-
tion or Thermal Conductivity Detection (TCD)
ously Closed Cup (MCCCFP) Tester
D2500Test Method for Cloud Point of Petroleum Products
D7220Test Method for Sulfur in Automotive, Heating, and
and Liquid Fuels
Jet Fuels by Monochromatic Energy Dispersive X-ray
D2622Test Method for Sulfur in Petroleum Products by
Fluorescence Spectrometry
Wavelength Dispersive X-ray Fluorescence Spectrometry
D7344Test Method for Distillation of Petroleum Products
D2624Test Methods for Electrical Conductivity ofAviation
and Liquid Fuels atAtmospheric Pressure (Mini Method)
and Distillate Fuels
D7345Test Method for Distillation of Petroleum Products
D2709Test Method for Water and Sediment in Middle
and Liquid Fuels at Atmospheric Pressure (Micro Distil-
Distillate Fuels by Centrifuge
lation Method)
D2887Test Method for Boiling Range Distribution of Pe-
D7346Test Method for No Flow Point and Pour Point of
troleum Fractions by Gas Chromatography
Petroleum Products and Liquid Fuels
D3828Test Methods for Flash Point by Small Scale Closed
D7371Test Method for Determination of Biodiesel (Fatty
Cup Tester
AcidMethylEsters)ContentinDieselFuelOilUsingMid
D4052Test Method for Density, Relative Density, and API
Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR-ATR-PLS Method)
Gravity of Liquids by Digital Density Meter
D7688TestMethodforEvaluatingLubricityofDieselFuels
D4057Practice for Manual Sampling of Petroleum and
by the High-Frequency Reciprocating Rig (HFRR) by
Petroleum Products
Visual Observation
D4177Practice for Automatic Sampling of Petroleum and
D7861Test Method for Determination of FattyAcid Methyl
Petroleum Products
Esters (FAME) in Diesel Fuel by Linear Variable Filter
D4294Test Method for Sulfur in Petroleum and Petroleum
(LVF) Array Based Mid-Infrared Spectroscopy
Products by Energy Dispersive X-ray Fluorescence Spec-
D7945TestMethodforDeterminationofDynamicViscosity
trometry
and Derived Kinematic Viscosity of Liquids by Constant
D4306Practice for Aviation Fuel Sample Containers for
Pressure Viscometer
Tests Affected by Trace Contamination
E29Practice for Using Significant Digits in Test Data to
D4308Test Method for Electrical Conductivity of Liquid
Determine Conformance with Specifications
Hydrocarbons by Precision Meter
2.2 Other Documents:
D4865Guide for Generation and Dissipation of Static Elec-
26 CFR Part 48Diesel Fuel Excise Tax; Dye Color and
tricity in Petroleum Fuel Systems
Concentration
D5453Test Method for Determination of Total Sulfur in
40 CFR Part 80Regulation of Fuel and Fuel Additives
Light Hydrocarbons, Spark Ignition Engine Fuel, Diesel
EN 14078 Determination of Fatty Acid Methyl Ester
Engine Fuel, and Engine Oil by Ultraviolet Fluorescence
(FAME) Content in Middle Distillates — Infrared Spec-
D5842Practice for Sampling and Handling of Fuels for
trometry Method
Volatility Measurement
EN 15751Automotive Fuels—Fatty Acid Methyl Ester
D5854Practice for Mixing and Handling of Liquid Samples
(FAME) Fuel and Blends with Diesel Fuel—
of Petroleum and Petroleum Products
Determination of Oxidation Stability byAccelerated Oxi-
D5949Test Method for Pour Point of Petroleum Products 4
dation Method
(Automatic Pressure Pulsing Method)
D5950Test Method for Pour Point of Petroleum Products
3. Terminology
(Automatic Tilt Method)
3.1 Definitions:
D5985Test Method for Pour Point of Petroleum Products
3.1.1 additive, n—in fuel oils, a substance added to fuel oil
(Rotational Method)
at a blend level not greater than 1% by volume of the finished
D6079TestMethodforEvaluatingLubricityofDieselFuels
fuel.
by the High-Frequency Reciprocating Rig (HFRR)
D6469GuideforMicrobialContaminationinFuelsandFuel 3.1.1.1 Discussion—Additivesaregenerallyincludedinfin-
Systems ished fuel oil to enhance performance properties (for example,
D6749Test Method for Pour Point of Petroleum Products stability, pour point, and so forth).
(Automatic Air Pressure Method)
D6751Specification for Biodiesel Fuel Blend Stock (B100)
Available from U.S. Government Printing Office, Superintendent of
for Middle Distillate Fuels
Documents, 732 N. Capitol St., NW, Mail Stop: SDE, Washington, DC 20401.
D6892Test Method for Pour Point of Petroleum Products
Available from the National CEN members listed on the CEN website
(Robotic Tilt Method) (www.cenorm.be) or from the CEN/TC 19 Secretariat (astm@nen.nl).
D396−21
3.1.1.2 Discussion—Additives that contain hydrocarbon oil results in units of mg/kg. Consult the test method in use to
blendedwithothersubstancesmayexcludethehydrocarbonoil determine units for a particular result.
portion for determination of the volume percent of the finished
4. General Requirements
fuel.
3.1.1.3 Discussion—Triglycerides (for example, vegetable
4.1 The grades of fuel oil specified herein shall be hydro-
oils, animal fats, greases, and so forth) have been found to
carbonoils,exceptasprovidedin4.3,freefrominorganicacid,
cause fouling of fuel oil burning equipment, and triglycerides
and free from excessive amounts of solid or fibrous foreign
are therefore not allowed as additives or components of matter. The inclusion of additives to enhance performance
additives.
properties, if required, is allowed.
3.1.2 alternative blendstock, n—in diesel fuels and fuel oils, 4.1.1 Additives may be included in fuel oil at a blend level
anon-hydrocarbonoilsubstanceaddedtodieselfuelorfueloil
not greater than 1% by volume of the finished fuel.
atblendlevelsgreaterthan1%byvolumeofthefinishedfuel. 4.1.1.1 Additives are generally included in finished fuel oil
3.1.2.1 Discussion—An alternative blendstock should nor- toenhanceperformanceproperties(forexample,stability,pour
mally have an industry consensus standard or an annex in this point, and so forth).
specification that defines its physical and chemical properties. 4.1.1.2 Additives that contain hydrocarbon oil blended with
3.1.2.2 Discussion—See Appendix X3 for guidance regard- other substances may exclude the hydrocarbon oil portion for
ing new materials for No. 1 and No. 2 grades of fuel oils. determination of the volume percent of the finished fuel.
4.1.1.3 Triglycerides (for example, vegetable oils, animal
3.1.3 biodiesel, n—fuel comprised of mono-alkyl esters of
fats, greases, and so forth) have been found to cause fouling of
long chain fatty acids derived from vegetable oils or animal
fuel oil burning equipment, and triglycerides are therefore not
fats, designated B100.
allowed as additives or components of additives.
3.1.4 biodiesel blend (BXX), n—a homogeneous mixture of
4.2 All grades containing residual components shall remain
hydrocarbon oils and mono alkyl esters of long chain fatty
uniforminnormalstorageandnotseparatebygravityintolight
acids.
and heavy oil components outside the viscosity limits for the
3.1.4.1 Discussion—In the abbreviation BXX, the XX rep-
grade.
resents the volume percentage of biodiesel in the blend.
4.3 Alternative Blendstocks:
3.1.5 hydrocarbon oil, n—a homogeneous mixture with
4.3.1 Fuels Blended with Biodiesel—The detailed require-
elemental composition primarily of carbon and hydrogen that
ments for fuels blended with biodiesel shall be as follows:
may also contain sulfur, oxygen, or nitrogen from residual
4.3.1.1 Biodiesel for Blending—If biodiesel is a component
impurities and contaminants associated with the fuel’s raw
of any fuel oil, the biodiesel shall meet the requirements of
materials and manufacturing processes and excluding added
Specification D6751.
oxygenated materials.
4.3.1.2 The remainder of the fuel oil shall be fuel oil
3.1.5.1 Discussion—Neithermacronormicroemulsionsare
conformingtoSpecificationD396GradesNo.1orNo.2ofany
included in this definition since neither are homogeneous
sulfur level specified, with the exception that fuel oil whose
mixtures.
sulfurlevelfallsoutsideofSpecificationD396maybeblended
3.1.5.2 Discussion—Examples of excluded oxygenated ma-
with biodiesel meeting Specification D6751, provided the
terials are alcohols, esters, ethers, and triglycerides.
finished mixture meets this specification.
3.1.5.3 Discussion—The hydrocarbon oil may be manufac-
4.3.1.3 Fuel oil containing up to 5% by volume biodiesel
tured from a variety of raw materials, for example, petroleum
shall meet the requirements for the appropriate grade No. 1 or
(crudeoil),oilsands,naturalgas,coal,andbiomass.Appendix
No. 2 fuel as listed in Table 1.
X3 discusses some matters for consideration regarding the use
4.3.1.4 Fueloilcontaining6%to20%byvolumebiodiesel
of fuel oils from feedstocks other than petroleum.
shall meet the requirements for the appropriate grade B6 to
3.1.6 S(numerical specification maximum), n—a part of the
B20 as listed in Table 1.
grade name that states the maximum sulfur content in ppm by
4.3.1.5 TestMethodsD7371,D7861,andEN14078maybe
mass (mg/kg) allowed by this specification and formatted as S
used for determination of the percent by volume biodiesel in a
followed with no space by the numerical sulfur maximum.
biodiesel blend. In cases of dispute, Test Method D7371 shall
3.1.6.1 Discussion—Ofthefourteenfueloilgradesspecified be the referee test method. See Practice E29 for guidance on
significant digits.
in this specification, nine have important distinguishing maxi-
mum sulfur regulator
...
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 − 20 D396 − 21
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, Diesel and Non-Aviation Gas Turbine, and Marine Turbine Fuels.
Current edition approved June 1, 2020April 1, 2021. Published June 2020April 2021. Originally approved in 1934. Last previous edition approved in 20192020 as
D396 – 19a.D396 – 20. DOI: 10.1520/D0396-20.10.1520/D0396-21.
*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 − 21
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)
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 Blend Stock (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)
D7094 Test Method for Flash Point by Modified Continuously Closed Cup (MCCCFP) Tester
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM Standards
volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on the ASTM website.
D396 − 21
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) 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—blend of biodiesel fuel with fuel oils.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 fuel 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 (astm@nen.nl).
D396 − 21
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 d
...
NOTICE: This standard has either been superseded and replaced by a new version or withdrawn.
Contact ASTM International (www.astm.org) for the latest information
Designation: D396 − 21
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)
NOTE 2—A more detailed description of the grades of fuel oils is given
D130 Test Method for Corrosiveness to Copper from Petro-
in X1.3.
leum Products by Copper Strip Test
1.2 This specification is for the use of purchasing agencies
D445 Test Method for Kinematic Viscosity of Transparent
in formulating specifications to be included in contracts for
and Opaque Liquids (and Calculation of Dynamic Viscos-
purchases of fuel oils and for the guidance of consumers of fuel
ity)
oils in the selection of the grades most suitable for their needs.
D473 Test Method for Sediment in Crude Oils and Fuel Oils
1.3 Nothing in this specification shall preclude observance by the Extraction Method
of federal, state, or local regulations which can be more
D482 Test Method for Ash from Petroleum Products
restrictive. D524 Test Method for Ramsbottom Carbon Residue of
Petroleum Products
1.4 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as
D664 Test Method for Acid Number of Petroleum Products
standard.
by Potentiometric Titration
D975 Specification for Diesel Fuel
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. For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
Current edition approved April 1, 2021. Published April 2021. Originally contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM
approved in 1934. Last previous edition approved in 2020 as D396 – 20. DOI: Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
10.1520/D0396-21. the ASTM website.
*A Summary of Changes section appears at the end of this standard
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
D396 − 21
D1266 Test Method for Sulfur in Petroleum Products (Lamp D7039 Test Method for Sulfur in Gasoline, Diesel Fuel, Jet
Fuel, Kerosine, Biodiesel, Biodiesel Blends, and
Method)
D1298 Test Method for Density, Relative Density, or API Gasoline-Ethanol Blends by Monochromatic Wavelength
Dispersive X-ray Fluorescence Spectrometry
Gravity of Crude Petroleum and Liquid Petroleum Prod-
D7042 Test Method for Dynamic Viscosity and Density of
ucts by Hydrometer Method
Liquids by Stabinger Viscometer (and the Calculation of
D1552 Test Method for Sulfur in Petroleum Products by
Kinematic Viscosity)
High Temperature Combustion and Infrared (IR) Detec-
D7094 Test Method for Flash Point by Modified Continu-
tion or Thermal Conductivity Detection (TCD)
ously Closed Cup (MCCCFP) Tester
D2500 Test Method for Cloud Point of Petroleum Products
D7220 Test Method for Sulfur in Automotive, Heating, and
and Liquid Fuels
Jet Fuels by Monochromatic Energy Dispersive X-ray
D2622 Test Method for Sulfur in Petroleum Products by
Fluorescence Spectrometry
Wavelength Dispersive X-ray Fluorescence Spectrometry
D7344 Test Method for Distillation of Petroleum Products
D2624 Test Methods for Electrical Conductivity of Aviation
and Liquid Fuels at Atmospheric Pressure (Mini Method)
and Distillate Fuels
D7345 Test Method for Distillation of Petroleum Products
D2709 Test Method for Water and Sediment in Middle
and Liquid Fuels at Atmospheric Pressure (Micro Distil-
Distillate Fuels by Centrifuge
lation Method)
D2887 Test Method for Boiling Range Distribution of Pe-
D7346 Test Method for No Flow Point and Pour Point of
troleum Fractions by Gas Chromatography
Petroleum Products and Liquid Fuels
D3828 Test Methods for Flash Point by Small Scale Closed
D7371 Test Method for Determination of Biodiesel (Fatty
Cup Tester
Acid Methyl Esters) Content in Diesel Fuel Oil Using Mid
D4052 Test Method for Density, Relative Density, and API
Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR-ATR-PLS Method)
Gravity of Liquids by Digital Density Meter
D7688 Test Method for Evaluating Lubricity of Diesel Fuels
D4057 Practice for Manual Sampling of Petroleum and
by the High-Frequency Reciprocating Rig (HFRR) by
Petroleum Products
Visual Observation
D4177 Practice for Automatic Sampling of Petroleum and
D7861 Test Method for Determination of Fatty Acid Methyl
Petroleum Products
Esters (FAME) in Diesel Fuel by Linear Variable Filter
D4294 Test Method for Sulfur in Petroleum and Petroleum
(LVF) Array Based Mid-Infrared Spectroscopy
Products by Energy Dispersive X-ray Fluorescence Spec-
D7945 Test Method for Determination of Dynamic Viscosity
trometry
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
40 CFR Part 80 Regulation of Fuel and Fuel Additives
Light Hydrocarbons, Spark Ignition Engine Fuel, Diesel
EN 14078 Determination of Fatty Acid Methyl Ester
Engine Fuel, and Engine Oil by Ultraviolet Fluorescence
(FAME) Content in Middle Distillates — Infrared Spec-
D5842 Practice for Sampling and Handling of Fuels for
trometry Method
Volatility Measurement
EN 15751 Automotive Fuels—Fatty Acid Methyl Ester
D5854 Practice for Mixing and Handling of Liquid Samples
(FAME) Fuel and Blends with Diesel Fuel—
of Petroleum and Petroleum Products
Determination of Oxidation Stability by Accelerated Oxi-
D5949 Test Method for Pour Point of Petroleum Products 4
dation Method
(Automatic Pressure Pulsing Method)
D5950 Test Method for Pour Point of Petroleum Products
3. Terminology
(Automatic Tilt Method)
3.1 Definitions:
D5985 Test Method for Pour Point of Petroleum Products
3.1.1 additive, n—in fuel oils, a substance added to fuel oil
(Rotational Method)
at a blend level not greater than 1 % by volume of the finished
D6079 Test Method for Evaluating Lubricity of Diesel Fuels
fuel.
by the High-Frequency Reciprocating Rig (HFRR)
D6469 Guide for Microbial Contamination in Fuels and Fuel 3.1.1.1 Discussion—Additives are generally included in fin-
Systems ished fuel oil to enhance performance properties (for example,
D6749 Test Method for Pour Point of Petroleum Products stability, pour point, and so forth).
(Automatic Air Pressure Method)
D6751 Specification for Biodiesel Fuel Blend Stock (B100)
Available from U.S. Government Printing Office, Superintendent of
for Middle Distillate Fuels
Documents, 732 N. Capitol St., NW, Mail Stop: SDE, Washington, DC 20401.
D6892 Test Method for Pour Point of Petroleum Products 4
Available from the National CEN members listed on the CEN website
(Robotic Tilt Method) (www.cenorm.be) or from the CEN/TC 19 Secretariat (astm@nen.nl).
D396 − 21
3.1.1.2 Discussion—Additives that contain hydrocarbon oil results in units of mg/kg. Consult the test method in use to
blended with other substances may exclude the hydrocarbon oil determine units for a particular result.
portion for determination of the volume percent of the finished
4. General Requirements
fuel.
3.1.1.3 Discussion—Triglycerides (for example, vegetable
4.1 The grades of fuel oil specified herein shall be hydro-
oils, animal fats, greases, and so forth) have been found to
carbon oils, except as provided in 4.3, free from inorganic acid,
cause fouling of fuel oil burning equipment, and triglycerides and free from excessive amounts of solid or fibrous foreign
are therefore not allowed as additives or components of
matter. The inclusion of additives to enhance performance
additives. properties, if required, is allowed.
3.1.2 alternative blendstock, n—in diesel fuels and fuel oils,
4.1.1 Additives may be included in fuel oil at a blend level
a non-hydrocarbon oil substance added to diesel fuel or fuel oil not greater than 1 % by volume of the finished fuel.
at blend levels greater than 1 % by volume of the finished fuel.
4.1.1.1 Additives are generally included in finished fuel oil
3.1.2.1 Discussion—An alternative blendstock should nor- to enhance performance properties (for example, stability, pour
mally have an industry consensus standard or an annex in this point, and so forth).
specification that defines its physical and chemical properties. 4.1.1.2 Additives that contain hydrocarbon oil blended with
3.1.2.2 Discussion—See Appendix X3 for guidance regard- other substances may exclude the hydrocarbon oil portion for
ing new materials for No. 1 and No. 2 grades of fuel oils. determination of the volume percent of the finished fuel.
4.1.1.3 Triglycerides (for example, vegetable oils, animal
3.1.3 biodiesel, n—fuel comprised of mono-alkyl esters of
fats, greases, and so forth) have been found to cause fouling of
long chain fatty acids derived from vegetable oils or animal
fuel oil burning equipment, and triglycerides are therefore not
fats, designated B100.
allowed as additives or components of additives.
3.1.4 biodiesel blend (BXX), n—a homogeneous mixture of
4.2 All grades containing residual components shall remain
hydrocarbon oils and mono alkyl esters of long chain fatty
uniform in normal storage and not separate by gravity into light
acids.
and heavy oil components outside the viscosity limits for the
3.1.4.1 Discussion—In the abbreviation BXX, the XX rep-
grade.
resents the volume percentage of biodiesel in the blend.
4.3 Alternative Blendstocks:
3.1.5 hydrocarbon oil, n—a homogeneous mixture with
4.3.1 Fuels Blended with Biodiesel—The detailed require-
elemental composition primarily of carbon and hydrogen that
ments for fuels blended with biodiesel shall be as follows:
may also contain sulfur, oxygen, or nitrogen from residual
4.3.1.1 Biodiesel for Blending—If biodiesel is a component
impurities and contaminants associated with the fuel’s raw
of any fuel oil, the biodiesel shall meet the requirements of
materials and manufacturing processes and excluding added
Specification D6751.
oxygenated materials.
4.3.1.2 The remainder of the fuel oil shall be fuel oil
3.1.5.1 Discussion—Neither macro nor micro emulsions are
conforming to Specification D396 Grades No. 1 or No. 2 of any
included in this definition since neither are homogeneous
sulfur level specified, with the exception that fuel oil whose
mixtures.
sulfur level falls outside of Specification D396 may be blended
3.1.5.2 Discussion—Examples of excluded oxygenated ma-
with biodiesel meeting Specification D6751, provided the
terials are alcohols, esters, ethers, and triglycerides.
finished mixture meets this specification.
3.1.5.3 Discussion—The hydrocarbon oil may be manufac-
4.3.1.3 Fuel oil containing up to 5 % by volume biodiesel
tured from a variety of raw materials, for example, petroleum
shall meet the requirements for the appropriate grade No. 1 or
(crude oil), oil sands, natural gas, coal, and biomass. Appendix
No. 2 fuel as listed in Table 1.
X3 discusses some matters for consideration regarding the use
4.3.1.4 Fuel oil containing 6 % to 20 % by volume biodiesel
of fuel oils from feedstocks other than petroleum.
shall meet the requirements for the appropriate grade B6 to
3.1.6 S(numerical specification maximum), n—a part of the
B20 as listed in Table 1.
grade name that states the maximum sulfur content in ppm by
4.3.1.5 Test Methods D7371, D7861, and EN 14078 may be
mass (mg/kg) allowed by this specification and formatted as S
used for determination of the percent by volume biodiesel in a
followed with no space by the numerical sulfur maximum.
biodiesel blend. In cases of dispute, Test Method D7371 shall
be the referee test method. See Practice E29 for guidance on
3.1.6.
...
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