1. Scope

1.1 This test method covers the Calculated Cetane Index formula, which represents a means for directly estimating the ASTM cetane number of distillate fuels from API gravity and mid-boiling point. The index value, as computed from the formula, is termed the Calculated Cetane Index.

1.2 The Calculated Cetane Index is not an optional method for expressing ASTM cetane number. It is a supplementary tool for predicting cetane number when used with due regard for its limitations.

1.3 The Calculated Cetane Index formula is particularly applicable to straight-run fuels, catalytically cracked stocks, and blends of the two.

This test method is temporarily retained because the proposal to the U.S. EPA to control diesel fuel aromatics concentrations via a 40 Calculated Cetane Index minimum is based on the correlation between Test Method D 976 and aromatics concentration. Test Method D 4737 is the preferred method as estimator of cetane number.

1.4 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.

2. Referenced Documents (purchase separately) The documents listed below are referenced within the subject standard but are not provided as part of the standard.

ASTM Standards

D86 Test Method for Distillation of Petroleum Products at Atmospheric Pressure

D287 Test Method for API Gravity of Crude Petroleum and Petroleum Products (Hydrometer Method)

D613 Test Method for Cetane Number of Diesel Fuel Oil

D1298 Test Method for Density, Relative Density (Specific Gravity), or API Gravity of Crude Petroleum and Liquid Petroleum Products by Hydrometer Method

D2887 Test Method for Boiling Range Distribution of Petroleum Fractions by Gas Chromatography

D4052 Test Method for Density, Relative Density, and API Gravity of Liquids by Digital Density Meter

D4737 Test Method for Calculated Cetane Index by Four Variable Equation

Keywords

cetane; cetane index; diesel fuel: Calculated Cetane Index (CCI); Distillate fuels;

ICS Code

ICS Number Code 75.160.20 (Liquid fuels)

DOI: 10.1520/D0976-04BE01

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