ASTM D3827-92(2012)

Knowledge of gas solubility is of extreme importance in the lubrication of gas compressors. It is believed to be a substantial factor in boundary lubrication, where the sudden release of dissolved gas may cause cavitation erosion, or even collapse of the fluid film. In hydraulic and seal oils, gas dissolved at high pressure can cause excessive foaming on release of the pressure. In aviation oils and fuels, the difference in pressure between take-off and cruise altitude can cause foaming in storage vessels and interrupt flow to pumps.

1.1 This test method covers a procedure for estimating the equilibrium solubility of several common gases in petroleum and synthetic lubricants, fuels, and solvents, at temperatures between 0 and 488 K.

1.2 This test method is limited to systems in which polarity and hydrogen bonding are not strong enough to cause serious deviations from regularity. Specifically excluded are such gases as HCl, NH₃, and SO₂, and hydroxy liquids such as alcohols, glycols, and water. Estimating the solubility of CO₂ in nonhydrocarbons is also specifically excluded.

1.3 Highly aromatic oils such as diphenoxy phenylene ethers violate the stated accuracy above 363 K, at which point the estimate for nitrogen solubility is 43 % higher than the observation.

1.4 Lubricants are given preference in this test method to the extent that certain empirical factors were adjusted to the lubricant data. Estimates for distillate fuels are made from the lubricant estimates by a further set of empirical factors, and are less accurate. Estimates for halogenated solvents are made as if they were hydrocarbons, and are the least accurate of the three.

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

1.6 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.