ISO 15167:1999

Overview - ISO 15167:1999 (Laboratory filtration method)

ISO 15167:1999 specifies a laboratory filtration method for determining the particulate content of middle distillate fuels (fuels with a closed flash point of 38 °C or higher). The method uses a gravimetric approach: a measured volume of fuel is passed through pre-weighed membrane filters and the mass increase of the test filter (relative to a control filter) gives particulate concentration expressed in grams per cubic metre (g/m3). The procedure is applicable up to 25 g/m3 and is not intended for light distillate fuels (gasolines) or aviation fuels.

Key topics and technical requirements

• Scope and applicability: Middle distillate fuels only; closed flash point ≥ 38 °C; excludes gasoline and aviation fuels.
• Principle: Filtration of a specified sample volume through a pre-weighed test membrane filter with an underlying control membrane; determine particulate mass by gravimetric increase after washing and drying.
• Filter media: 47 mm diameter membrane filters of nominal porosity 0,8 mm (test and control). Note: precision data were obtained using nylon filters.
• Reagents and flushing fluids: Propan-2-ol (isopropyl alcohol) for rinsing and heptane or 2,2,4‑trimethylpentane as flushing fluid; use water of analytical grade (ISO 3696).
• Apparatus: Analytical balance (0.1 mg accuracy), static oven at 90 °C, vacuum filtration system, receiving and safety flasks, grounded/bonded components, air ionizer for weighing environment.
• Sampling and preparation: Strict cleaning of sample containers and apparatus, controlled sample volumes, avoidance of contamination, dynamic sampling preferred (ISO 3170 / ISO 3171 principles).
• Precision and reporting: Results are only valid when procedure, sample size, filter material, and complete filtration requirements are strictly followed. Test report must document conditions and any deviations.

Applications and users

ISO 15167 is used by:

• Fuel testing laboratories and QC departments in refineries and distribution terminals
• Pipeline and storage operators monitoring fuel cleanliness
• Diesel engine and equipment manufacturers concerned with filter plugging and operational reliability
• Suppliers and purchasers performing acceptance testing and contamination control Practical applications include monitoring particulate contamination to prevent filter blockage, diagnosing operational fuel problems, and establishing gravimetric contamination limits for diesel and domestic heating fuels.

Related standards

• ISO 2719, ISO 3679, ISO 13736 - flash point methods (referenced for fuel classification)
• ISO 3170 / ISO 3171 - sampling of petroleum liquids
• ISO 3696 - water for laboratory use
• ISO 4259 - precision and application of precision data

Keywords: ISO 15167:1999, particulate content, middle distillate fuels, laboratory filtration method, membrane filters, gravimetric determination, fuel cleanliness, filter plugging.