ASTM D445-24 PDF

Full title and description

ASTM D445-24 — Standard Test Method for Kinematic Viscosity of Transparent and Opaque Liquids (and Calculation of Dynamic Viscosity). This test method specifies procedures for measuring kinematic viscosity by timing the flow of a liquid through a calibrated glass capillary viscometer and for calculating dynamic viscosity from the kinematic result and sample density.

Abstract

Test Method D445-24 covers determination of kinematic viscosity (ν) for a wide range of liquids used in petroleum and some non‑petroleum applications, using calibrated glass capillary viscometers. Results are intended primarily for Newtonian fluids; dynamic viscosity (η) is obtained by multiplying ν by density (ρ). The method provides a measurement range from about 0.2 mm²/s to 300 000 mm²/s and includes guidance and precision information for typical petroleum products and residual fuels.

General information

• Status: Active standard (current edition).
• Publication date: 2024 (designated D445-24; published April 2024 / 2024 edition).
• Publisher: ASTM International.
• ICS / categories: Measurement of volume, mass, density, viscosity (ICS 17.060); Petroleum products in general (ICS 75.080).
• Edition / version: D445-24 (2024 revision).
• Number of pages: 16 pages; DOI: 10.1520/D0445-24.

Key bibliographic details and the official designation are recorded by ASTM International and in standards catalogues.

Scope

This test method specifies procedures for measuring kinematic viscosity of both transparent and opaque liquids by passage through a calibrated glass capillary viscometer. It applies to liquids exhibiting primarily Newtonian behavior; where non‑Newtonian behavior occurs (for example some residual fuel oils), the standard provides specific notes and precision statements. The method defines the SI units (mm²/s for kinematic viscosity and mPa·s for dynamic viscosity) and gives conversion references. The covered viscosity range extends from approximately 0.2 mm²/s up to 300 000 mm²/s.

Key topics and requirements

• Measurement principle: timed flow through a calibrated glass capillary viscometer (gravity-driven capillary method).
• Range of measurement: nominally 0.2 mm²/s to 300 000 mm²/s (covers most fuels, lubricants and related fluids).
• Calculation of dynamic viscosity (η = ν × ρ) once density is known or measured.
• Assumption of Newtonian flow behavior; guidance and caution where non-Newtonian behavior may affect results (residual fuels, heavy oils).
• Precision and bias statements for specified temperature and viscosity ranges; recommended viscometer types and calibration practices.
• Safety note regarding hazardous materials historically used in viscometry (e.g., mercury) and user responsibility for workplace safety and regulatory compliance.

These topics and requirements are described in the body and annexes of the standard and supported by ASTM committee guidance.

Typical use and users

Used by chemical and petroleum testing laboratories, lubricant and fuel manufacturers, quality control groups, research organisations, certification bodies, and regulatory agencies that specify or verify viscosity properties. Typical applications include product specification testing, quality control of fuels and lubricants, R&D viscosity characterization, and supporting calculations such as viscosity index determinations.

Related standards

Commonly referenced and complementary standards include ISO 3104 (equivalent kinematic-viscosity methods), ASTM D446 (specifications and operating instructions for glass capillary kinematic viscometers), ASTM D2270 (viscosity index calculation), and industry methods such as IP 71/1; related work items and committee activity address alignment and precision studies.

Keywords

kinematic viscosity, dynamic viscosity, viscometer, capillary viscometer, cSt, mm²/s, Newtonian fluids, petroleum products, lubricants, viscosity index.

FAQ

Q: What is this standard?

A: ASTM D445-24 is the ASTM International standard test method for measuring kinematic viscosity of transparent and opaque liquids using glass capillary viscometers and for calculating dynamic viscosity from kinematic viscosity and density.

Q: What does it cover?

A: It covers procedures, measurement range (≈0.2 to 300 000 mm²/s), required viscometer types, calculation of dynamic viscosity, precision statements for specified fluids and temperatures, and user safety considerations. It is intended primarily for Newtonian fluids; special notes are included for materials that may show non‑Newtonian behavior.

Q: Who typically uses it?

A: Petroleum and lubricant laboratories, QC and R&D teams at manufacturers, testing organizations, and regulatory or certification bodies that require accurate viscosity data for specification, handling, or performance evaluation.

Q: Is it current or superseded?

A: The -24 edition (D445-24) is the current active edition (2024 revision) as published by ASTM International. Users should check for any subsequent amendments or project work items that may affect precision or scope.

Q: Is it part of a series?

A: D445 is part of a family of viscosity and petroleum testing standards and is used alongside complementary standards such as D446 (viscometer specifications) and D2270 (viscosity index). It is routinely cross-referenced with ISO 3104 and other regional methods.

Q: What are the key keywords?

A: Kinematic viscosity, dynamic viscosity, capillary viscometer, cSt, mm²/s, Newtonian, petroleum products, lubricants.