scope:

This test method² is a small-scale, empirical test for obtaining information regarding the free-swelling properties of a coal. The results may be used as an indication of the caking characteristic of the coal when burned as a fuel. This test is not recommended as a method for the determination of expansion of coals in coke ovens.

Units-The values stated in either SI units or non-SI units are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in each system are not necessarily exact equivalents; therefore, to ensure conformance with the standard, each system shall be used independently of the other, and values from the two systems shall not be combined.

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.

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 This test method is an adaptation of the Crucible Swelling Test for Coal of the British Standards Institution. For information concerning the experimental work on which this adaptation is based, see paper by Ostborg, H. N., Limbacker, H. R., and Sherman, R. A., "An Experimental Investigation of the British Standard Method for the Crucible Swelling Test for Coal," Proceedings, Am. Soc. Testing Mats., Vol 42, 1042, p. 851. See also a paper by Selvig, W. A., and Ode, W. H., "An Investigation of a Laboratory Test for Determination of the Free-Swelling Index of Coal," U.S. Bureau of Mines Report of Investigation 4238, Revision of R. I. 3989, 1948.