1.1 This test method uses a specific automatic particle counter (APC) to count
and measure the size of dispersed dirt particles, water droplets and other particles, in light and middle distillate fuel, and bio fuels such as biodiesel and biodiesel blends, in the overall
range from 4 µm(c) to 100 µm(c) and in the size bands ≥4 µm(c), ≥6 µm(c), and ≥14 µm(c).
Note 1: ASTM and military specification fuels falling within the scope of this test method
include Specifications: D975 grades 1D and 2D, D1655, D3699, D4814 (see 14.1.1.1), D6751, D7467, distillate
grades of D396 and D2880, MIL-DTL-83133, and MIL-DTL-16884.
Note 2: For the purposes of this test method, water droplets are counted as particles, and
agglomerated particles are detected and counted as a single larger particle. Dirt includes biological particles. Although the projected area of a particle is measured, this is expressed as
the diameter of a sphere for the purposes of this test method.
Note 3: The notation (c), used with particle sizes, is used to denote that the apparatus has
been calibrated in accordance with ISO 11171. Strictly this only applies to particles up to 50 µm.
Note 4: This test method may be used for particle sizes bands up to 100 µm(c), however the
precision has only been determined for the size bands ≥4 µm(c), ≥6 µm(c), and ≥14 µm(c). All
measurements are per millilitre.
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 appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
1.4 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.
automatic particle counting; automotive diesel; biodiesel; fuel cleanliness; gas oil; gasoline; kerosine; marine diesel;