ASTM D1321-04

Petroleum waxes differ in hardness. Needle penetration is a measurement of hardness. Hardness may have a significant effect upon other physical properties.

1.1 This test method covers the empirical estimation of the consistency of waxes derived from petroleum by measurement of the extent of penetration of a standard needle. This test method is applicable to waxes having a penetration of not greater than 250.

Note 1—This test method is similar to the needle method for determining the penetration of bituminous material, Test Method D 5. Cone methods applicable to greases and to petrolatum are described in Test Methods D 217 and Test Method D 937, respectively.

1.2 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values given in parentheses are for information only.

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 and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.