scope:

This method covers procedures for the empirical measurement of Saybolt viscosity of petroleum products² at specified temperatures between 70 and 210 F. there is also included a special procedure for waxy products.

NOTE 1-A fundamental and preferred method for measuring viscosity is by use of kinematic viscometers as outlined in ASTM Method D 445, Determination of Kinematic Viscosity of Trans-parent and Opaque Liquids ( and the Calculation of Dynamic Viscosity).³ This method requires smaller sample, less time, and gives greater accuracy.

Saybolt Universal and Saybolt Furol viscosities may be obtained from kinematic viscosity values by the use of conversion tables given in ASTM Method D2161, Conversion of Kinematic Viscosity to Saybolt Universal Viscosity or to Saybolt Furol Viscosity.

Viscosity index calculation from kinematic viscosity is recommended over viscosity index calculation using Saybolt Universal values.

Saybolt Furol Viscosity of Bituminous Materials at High Temperatures is covered by ASTM at High Temperature is covered by ASTM Method E 102 for Saybolt Furol Viscosity of Bituminous Materials at High Temperatures.⁴

²Statements defining this test and its significance when applied to electrical insulating oils of mineral origin will be found in ASTM Methods D 117. Testing Electrical insulating Oils, which appear in the Annual Book of ASTM Standards. Part 40.

³ Annual book of ASTM Standards, Parts 23 and 40

⁴ Annual book of ASTM Standards, Part 15.