Performance Evaluation of Petroleum Analysers for Cold Properties According to ISO17025

Cloud point, pour point, freezing point and cold filter plugging point, also called the cold properties, are a series of important parameters in the test procedure of many oil products such as lubricants, diesel and jet fuel. The classic manual analysis methods for these parameters turned into fine automated instruments such as the PAC/ISL, FPP 5Gs CFPP analyser, the FZP 5Gs freezing point analyser and the CPP 5Gs for determination of pour and cloud point. Although a frequent performance validation is necessary in order to eliminate any kind of malfunction or incorrect test results. E.L.S. European Lab Services (Belgium) provides a trustworthy verification with all programs according to ISO 17025 accreditation and is still the only company worldwide performing on-site verifications.                                                           

Every step of the ASTM method is checked thoroughly during the verification. For example, when a CFPP analyser is checked, the strict procedure of this verification is defined in the ASTM D6371 or EN116 and EN16329. This standard method describes calibration of the temperature sensor and display, verification of the timer for suction speed, checking and adjusting the vacuum pressure, programming the offsets and running a test using a Certified Reference Material (CRM).

When all parameters are checked carefully, the instrument is ready for analysis and receives a proper certification. Every ASTM standard describes different important parameters and the working procedure that is maintained with the technical engineers always strictly follows these instructions. E.L.S. also provides verification for pour & cloud point analysers according D2500, D5771, D97, D5950, D5853, etc., freezing point analysers according IP529, ASTM D2386, D7153, and various other instruments for physical property testing on petroleum products.