A knowledge of water extractable inorganic halides in oil is important when deciding whether or not the oils need desalting. Excessive halide, especially in crude oil, frequently results in higher corrosion rates in refining units.

1.1 This test method covers the determination of salt in crude oils. For the purpose of this test method, salt is expressed as % (m/m) NaCl (sodium chloride) and covers the range from 0.0005 to 0.15 % (m/m).

1.2 The limit of detection is 0.0002 % (m/m) for salt (as NaCl).

1.3 The test method is applicable to nearly all of the heavier petroleum products, such as crude oils, residues, and fuel oils. It may also be applied to used turbine oil and marine diesel fuel to estimate seawater contamination. Water extractable salts, originating from additives present in oils, are codetermined.

1.4 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard.

1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.