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D1901-10 – Standard Test Method Technical Guide
📐 Overview and Significance
This test method, designated D1901-10 (Reapproved 2020), covers the measurement of the relative evaporation time of halogenated organic solvents and their admixtures. It is applicable under standard conditions without excessive drafts or high-velocity air currents. The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard, and the method provides valid comparisons for determining suitability in specific cleaning applications.
The evaporation rate is determined by measuring the time required for complete evaporation of a thin film of the solvent from a sheet-metal panel in comparison with a reference standard solvent. This standard is essential for evaluating halogenated hydrocarbons and their blends with nonhalogenated hydrocarbons, such as mineral spirits.
⚙️ Apparatus and Reagents
The apparatus includes a test panel made of aluminum AA Alloy 6061, with dimensions 1 mm by 100 mm by 150 mm, and a horizontal scribe mark 25 mm from one 100 mm edge. The support base holds the panel at 60 ± 1° from the horizontal. A stopwatch or electric interval timer and a 10 mL graduate with pouring lip are required.
| 🟦 Component | 📏 Specification |
|---|---|
| Test Panel | Aluminum AA Alloy 6061, Temper T4 or T6, 1 mm × 100 mm × 150 mm, with scribe mark at 25 mm from one 100 mm edge |
| Support Base | Holds panel at 60 ± 1° from horizontal |
| Graduate | 10 mL capacity with pouring lip |
Reagents required include Perchloroethylene with an initial boiling point of 121°C, boiling range of 2°C, and purity of 99%, as well as p-Xylene with 99% purity.
| 🎯 Reagent | ⚡ Specification |
|---|---|
| Perchloroethylene | Initial boiling point 121°C, boiling range 2°C, purity 99% |
| p-Xylene | Purity 99% |
📊 Test Procedure
Place a clean, water-break-free test panel on the support base at an angle of 60 ± 1° from the horizontal, with the scribe mark at the lower end of the panel. Using the graduate, pour 10 mL of the material under test over the test panel, ensuring complete coverage of the entire exposed surface. As soon as the 10 mL of test material has been poured, observe the upper edge of the panel for a break in the film to determine the evaporation time.
💡 Technical Note: Ensure the panel is clean and water-break-free to obtain accurate results. The angle of the support base must be maintained at 60 ± 1° for consistency.
⚠️ Warning: This test method is not applicable in the presence of excessive drafts or high-velocity air currents, as these can affect evaporation time measurements.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
🔍 What is the purpose of this test method?
This test method is used to measure the relative evaporation time of halogenated organic solvents and their admixtures to determine their suitability for specific cleaning applications.
💡 What materials are required for the test?
The test requires a specific aluminum panel (AA Alloy 6061, Temper T4 or T6), a support base at 60° angle, a stopwatch, and a 10 mL graduate. Reagents like perchloroethylene and p-xylene are also needed.
⚡ How is the evaporation time measured?
The evaporation time is measured by pouring 10 mL of the solvent over the panel and recording the time until the film breaks at the upper edge.
📌 What precautions should be taken during the test?
Avoid excessive drafts or high-velocity air currents, and ensure the panel is clean and the angle is maintained at 60 ± 1°.