ASTM D7060 Test Method for Determination of the Maximum Flocculation Ratio and Peptizing Power in Residual and Heavy Fuel Oils (Optical Detection Method)
10. Preparation of Apparatus
10.1 Prepare the instrument for operation in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
10.2 Inspect the optical probe's glass surface for cleanliness and damage before use. Connect the optical probes to the respective apparatus' titration station. Place the optical probes in the holder at the back of the corresponding titration station.
10.3 Cleaning Instructions - Perform the following cleaning procedure after the test procedure (see 12.3).
10.3.1 Remove the dosing tube. Clean the tube with a clean, lintless cloth. Place the tube into its storage place.
10.3.2 Carefully remove the optical sensor from the reaction cell. (Warning - The hot sensor and reaction cell can cause severe burns.) Clean the optical sensor with a clean, lintless soft cloth using an appropriate solvent (see 8.4). Place the sensor in the holder on top of the reaction cell heater.
10.3.3 Take the reaction cell from the heater using wooden clamps, or use other protective measures to prevent burns.
10.3.4 Remove the lid. Remove the stirrer bar. Empty the reaction cell.
NOTE 6 - A small silicon or rubber tube with an attached magnetic stirrer is a handy tool to remove the stirrer bar from the reaction cell. Otherwise, the liquid can be poured over a metal sieve.
10.3.5 Clean the reaction cell and stirrer with an appropriate solvent (see 8.4). Use a clean, lintless cloth to remove any deposits.
11. Performance Check and QC
11.1 The instrument manufacturer checks the performance of the apparatus prior to delivery of the instrument to the end user.
11.2 Performance Check - Check the instrument's performance after the installation.
11.3 Performance Check Procedures - Perform the maximum flocculation ratio and the peptizing power determination on the asphaltene solution (8.2) according to Sections 12 and 13. The instrument's performance is acceptable when the peptizing power is 100 +/- 10 % (V/V).
11.4 QC - Confirm the performance of the instrument or the test procedure by analyzing a QC sample.
11.4.1 When QC/Quality Assurance (QA) protocols are already established in the testing facility, these can be used when they confirm the reliability of the test result.
11.4.2 When there is no QC/QA protocol established in the testing facility, use Guide D6792 for guidance.
