ASTM D5865/D5865M-19 PDF

Full title and description

Standard Test Method for Gross Calorific Value of Coal and Coke (designated D5865/D5865M‑19). This test method describes procedures for determining the gross calorific (higher heating) value of coal and coke using either isoperibol or adiabatic combustion (bomb) calorimeters; results are reported in SI or inch‑pound units as specified in the standard.

Abstract

This standard specifies sampling considerations, instrument calibration, test procedures, and calculations needed to determine the gross calorific value of coal and coke by bomb calorimetry. It is intended for laboratory measurement of heating value for commercial, classification, quality control, and regulatory purposes. The document includes unit handling (SI and IP), safety notes, and references to related coal analysis standards.

General information

• Status: Active (current edition).
• Publication date: January 6, 2019.
• Publisher: ASTM International.
• ICS / categories: 73.040 — Coals (coal and coke analysis / fuel testing).
• Edition / version: D5865/D5865M‑19.
• Number of pages: 19.

(Publication details and bibliographic data from the ASTM designation and standard record.)

Scope

This test method pertains to determination of the gross calorific value (higher heating value) of coal and coke by either an isoperibol or adiabatic combustion calorimeter. The standard treats SI and inch‑pound units as separate systems (they are not to be combined) and includes safety guidance for laboratory use. It is applicable for routine laboratory quality control, classification (see Classification D388), and commercial or regulatory determinations of heating value.

Key topics and requirements

• Sample preparation and representative sampling recommendations for coal and coke.
• Use of isoperibol and adiabatic (bomb) calorimeters and basic instrument setup.
• Calibration procedures (e.g., calibration checks using certified reference materials such as benzoic acid or instrument calibration gases where applicable).
• Combustion procedure, ignition materials, and complete combustion requirements.
• Corrections and calculations to convert calorimeter measurements to gross calorific value and expression of results in specified units.
• Reporting requirements, units handling (SI and inch‑pound), and precision/ repeatability considerations.
• Safety and environmental considerations for handling combustible samples and operating bomb calorimeters.

(Topics summarized from the standard’s scope and significance sections.)

Typical use and users

Laboratories performing coal and coke analysis (commercial and research labs), coal producers and traders (for payment and specification verification), power utilities and industrial fuel consumers (fuel quality and combustion planning), beneficiation and coal processing facilities (efficiency evaluation), and regulators enforcing fuel standards. The method is used for contractual, classification, and compliance purposes.

Related standards

Commonly referenced or related documents include ASTM D388 (classification of coals), ASTM D4239 (sulfur in coal and coke by high‑temperature tube furnace), and other coal analysis methods cited in the standard. Internationally, ISO 1928 (methods for determination of gross calorific value by bomb calorimeter) covers similar procedures. The ASTM document’s references and cross‑references are included in the standard text.

Keywords

gross calorific value; higher heating value; bomb calorimeter; isoperibol calorimeter; adiabatic calorimeter; coal analysis; coke analysis; heating value; calorimetry; benzoic acid calibration; ASTM D5865; fuel testing.

FAQ

Q: What is this standard?

A: It is ASTM D5865/D5865M‑19, the Standard Test Method for Gross Calorific Value of Coal and Coke — a laboratory procedure for determining higher heating value by bomb calorimetry.

Q: What does it cover?

A: Procedures for sample handling, calorimeter calibration and operation (isoperibol or adiabatic), calculations to report gross calorific value in SI or inch‑pound units, and associated safety guidance.

Q: Who typically uses it?

A: Analytical testing laboratories, coal producers and traders, utilities and industrial fuel users, beneficiation facilities, and regulatory bodies concerned with fuel quality and contractual heating‑value specifications.

Q: Is it current or superseded?

A: The D5865/D5865M‑19 edition (published January 6, 2019) is shown as the active edition. A revision work item (ASTM WK96450) to review the standard was recorded (work‑item initiation noted in 2025), indicating routine review activity; users should check ASTM records for any final revisions or reprints after that date.

Q: Is it part of a series?

A: It is part of ASTM’s coal and coke testing collection (Book of Standards volume covering gaseous fuels, coal and coke) and is cross‑referenced with other ASTM coal analysis and classification standards (for example, D388, D4239).

Q: What are the key keywords?

A: Gross calorific value, bomb calorimeter, isoperibol, adiabatic, coal, coke, heating value, calorimetry, fuel testing.