Phoenix’s lab is one of its core strengths as a hydrocarbon recycler as it enables us to analyze a variety of oils and fuels. At the lab, Phoenix can sample, test nearly any distressed, surplus, or heavy oil, even hard to break emulsions. Extensive testing allows Phoenix to precisely determine the value and quality of any material, thus enabling efficient recycling. Some of the tests that Phoenix performs in their lab are:
- The API Gravity test (ASTM-D 287)
The API Gravity test uses a glass hydrometer to calculate the API gravity of petroleum products and crude. It is normally implemented on liquid materials that are under 26 psi of Reid vapor pressure. Gravities are determined at 60 degrees Fahrenheit, or reference tables are used to convert the expected API gravity at 60 degrees Fahrenheit.
- The Flash Point test (ASTM-D 93)
The Flash Point test uses steady increases of temperature to determine the flash point (the minimum temperature needed for vaporization prior to ignition). A Pensky-Martens closed-cup apparatus, manual or automatic, is used to calculate the flash point and is compatible with a number of petroleum products. Ascertaining the flash point of a hydrocarbon source is important for understanding its properties and for determining the safest way to handle the material.
- The Ash test (ASTM-D 482)
The Ash test calculates the concentration of ash aggregated in crude oils, lubricating oils, distillate and residual fuels, waxes and other petroleum products. Any contaminants that can produce ash will affect the quality of these materials negatively. Ash residue can result from a number of compounds, including metals, dirt, or rust. This value is important for determining what applications the oil or fuel is
compatible with as well as aiding in determining the value of the product.
- The Water and Sediment test (ASTM D 4007)
The Water and Sediment test uses a centrifuge to determine the presence of water in a petroleum product. In most cases, the concentration of detected water is lower than the actual concentration of water present in the product. When additional accuracy is needed, both Test Method D 95 and Test Method D 473 can provide more precise results. A centrifuge, though, is still a critical part of the process because it can provide quick results that are approximately correct. This allows Phoenix to quickly assess potential feedstocks and saves valuable time compared to the lengthier, higher accuracy tests.
- The Water by Distillation test (ASTM-D 95)
The Water by Distillation test is also used to determine the concentration of water, ranging between zero and 25 percent in volume. This test is compatible with a number of petroleum products and tars, among other materials. The distillation test is important for precisely determining the water content in an oil or fuel. The concentration of water in the material will factor into how it is handled and is important for determining the value of potential feedstocks.
- The Sediment by Extraction test (ASTM D 473)
The Sediment by Extraction test is used to calculate the presence of sediment with the use of toluene. It is compatible with a number of crude and fuel oil. Precise detection of sediment is possible with sediment levels between 0.01and 0.40 percent of material mass, though detecting higher levels of sediment is possible. A toluene wash is used with a sample of the product and dissolves any soluble organic materials present. The sediment is then filtered out, and this can be used to precisely calculate the concentration of sediments in the product. This test is important for producing the best handling methods of a product and is also a major determinant of value.
- The Atmospheric Distillation test (ASTM D 86)
The Atmospheric Distillation test uses a laboratory distillation unit to calculate the boiling range of natural gasolines, automotive fuels, aviation fuels, light and middle distillates, diesel fuels, special petroleum spirits, napthas, kerosenes and burner fuels. This helps Phoenix understand the composition and properties of a potential feedstock.
These tests are essential to ascertain how a material should be recycled and what it is worth in the market. Phoenix, with its advanced lab, can efficiently perform these tests on all potential feedstocks and products and would welcome the opportunity to assist you in evaluating your projects.
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