ASTM D3339-12 PDF

1.1 This test method covers the determination of acidic constituents in new or used petroleum products and lubricants soluble or nearly soluble in mixtures of toluene, and isopropyl alcohol. The test method is especially intended for cases in which the amount of sample available to be analyzed is too small to allow accurate analysis by Test Methods D974 or D664. It is applicable for the determination of acids having dissociation constants in water larger than 10⁻⁹. Extremely weak acids having dissociation constants smaller than 10⁻⁹ do not interfere. Salts titrate if their hydrolysis constants are larger than 10⁻⁹.

1.2 This test method can be used to indicate relative changes in acid number that occur in an oil during use under oxidizing conditions. Although the titration is made under definite equilibrium conditions, the method does not measure an absolute acidic property that can be used to predict performance of an oil under service conditions. No general relationship between bearing corrosion and acid number is known.