ASTM D2878-21
Standard Test Method for Estimating Apparent Vapor Pressures and Molecular Weights of Lubricating Oils

Standard No.

ASTM D2878-21

Release Date

2021

Published By

American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM)

Latest

ASTM D2878-21

Scope

1.1 This test method covers a calculation procedure for converting data obtained by Test Method D972 to apparent vapor pressures and molecular weights. It has been demonstrated to be applicable to petroleum-based and synthetic ester lubricating oils,2 at temperatures of 395 K to 535 K (250 °F to 500 °F). However, its applicability to lubricating greases has not been established. NOTE 1—Most lubricants boil over a fairly wide temperature range, a fact recognized in discussion of their vapor pressures. For example, the apparent vapor pressure over the range 0 % to 0.1 % evaporated may be as much as 100 times that over the range 4.9 % to 5.0 % evaporated. 1.2 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. In cases in which materials, products, or equipment are available in inch-pound units only, SI units are omitted. 1.3 WARNING—Mercury has been designated by many regulatory agencies as a hazardous substance that can cause serious medical issues. Mercury, or its vapor, has been demonstrated to be hazardous to health and corrosive to materials. Use caution when handling mercury and mercury-containing products. See the applicable product Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for additional information. The potential exists that selling mercury or mercury-containing products, or both, is prohibited by local or national law. Users must determine legality of sales in their location. 1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability or regulatory limitations prior to use. For specific warning statements, see 6.2, 7.1, 8.2, and Annex A2. 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.

ASTM D2878-21 Referenced Document

• ASTM A240/A240M Standard Specification for Chromium and Chromium-Nickel Stainless Steel Plate, Sheet, and Strip for Pressure Vessels and for General Applications
• ASTM D2503 Standard Test Method for Relative Molecular Mass (Molecular Weight) of Hydrocarbons by Thermoelectric Measurement of Vapor Pressure
• ASTM D2595 Standard Test Method for Evaporation Loss of Lubricating Greases Over Wide-Temperature Range
• ASTM D2883 Standard Test Method for Reaction Threshold Temperature of Liquid and Solid Materials
• ASTM D4175 Standard Terminology Relating to Petroleum Products, Liquid Fuels, and Lubricants*， 2023-07-01 Update
• ASTM D92 Standard Test Method for Flash and Fire Points by Cleveland Open Cup
• ASTM D972 Standard Test Method for Evaporation Loss of Lubricating Greases and Oils
• ASTM E659 Standard Test Method for Autoignition Temperature of Liquid Chemicals

ASTM D2878-21 history

• 2021 ASTM D2878-21 Standard Test Method for Estimating Apparent Vapor Pressures and Molecular Weights of Lubricating Oils
• 2010 ASTM D2878-10(2016) Standard Test Method for Estimating Apparent Vapor Pressures and Molecular Weights of Lubricating Oils
• 2010 ASTM D2878-10 Standard Test Method for Estimating Apparent Vapor Pressures and Molecular Weights of Lubricating Oils
• 1995 ASTM D2878-95(2009) Standard Test Method for Estimating Apparent Vapor Pressures and Molecular Weights of Lubricating Oils
• 1995 ASTM D2878-95(2005) Standard Test Method for Estimating Apparent Vapor Pressures and Molecular Weights of Lubricating Oils
• 1995 ASTM D2878-95(2000)e1 Standard Test Method for Estimating Apparent Vapor Pressures and Molecular Weights of Lubricating Oils
• 2000 ASTM D2878-95 Standard Test Method for Estimating Apparent Vapor Pressures and Molecular Weights of Lubricating Oils