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D5865 – Standard Test Method Technical Guide
📐 Scope and Applicability
This test method, designated D5865/D5865M-19, pertains to the determination of the gross calorific value of coal and coke by either an isoperibol or adiabatic combustion calorimeter. Values stated in SI units or inch-pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. Each system shall be used independently of the other, and values from the two systems shall not be combined.
The standard does not purport to address all safety concerns. It is the responsibility of the user to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices. Specific hazard statements are given in Section 8. This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization from the WTO TBT Committee.
⚙️ Test Method and Equipment
The test method utilizes either an adiabatic or isoperibol calorimeter. An adiabatic calorimeter operates in the adiabatic mode, where initial and final temperatures are recorded by the operator or microprocessor. An automated calorimeter uses a microprocessor for thermometric readings and calculates the Calibration Value and Heat of Combustion Values.
Key instrumentation includes combustion vessels, thermometers specified in E2251, and oxygen systems as per E144. The method also references practices for sample collection and preparation such as D2013 for coal and D346 for coke.
📊 Key Definitions and Units
Important definitions from the standard include:
- Adiabatic calorimeter: a calorimeter operating in adiabatic mode, recording initial and final temperatures.
- Automated calorimeter: a calorimeter with a microprocessor for readings and calculations.
- British thermal unit (Btu): the amount of heat required to raise the temperature of one pound-mass of liquid water at one atmosphere pressure one degree Fahrenheit at a stated temperature. Results may be expressed in terms of the 1956 International Steam Table calorie (1 I.T. cal = 4.1868 J).
The following ASTM standards are referenced in this test method:
| 🟦 Designation | 📏 Title |
|---|---|
| D121 | Terminology of Coal and Coke |
| D388 | Classification of Coals by Rank |
| D4239 | Test Method for Sulfur in Coal and Coke by High-Temperature Tube Furnace Combustion |
| E691 | Practice for Conducting an Interlaboratory Study to Determine Precision of a Test Method |
Key unit definitions from the standard:
| 🔍 Unit | ⚡ Definition |
|---|---|
| Btu | Heat required to raise 1 lbm water 1°F at stated temperature |
| I.T. cal | 1956 International Steam Table calorie = 4.1868 J |
⚠️ Safety Note: Specific hazard statements are given in Section 8 of the standard. Users must refer to these for safe operation of oxygen combustion vessels.
💡 Tip: For accurate results, calibrate the calorimeter using standard reference materials and ensure proper sample preparation according to D2013 or D346.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
🔍 What is the scope of D5865?
It covers the determination of gross calorific value of coal and coke by isoperibol or adiabatic combustion calorimeters.
💡 What units are used in this standard?
Values can be stated in SI units or inch-pound units, but they must not be combined.
⚡ What is the definition of Btu in the standard?
It is the amount of heat required to raise one pound-mass of liquid water at one atmosphere pressure one degree Fahrenheit at a stated temperature.
📌 What calorimeter types are covered?
Both adiabatic and isoperibol calorimeters are covered, including automated versions with microprocessors.