ASTM D3104-14a (R2018) PDF Download

The ASTM D3104-14a (R2018) standard is a test method used to determine the softening point of pitches. Pitches do not go through a solid-liquid phase change when heated, so they do not have a true melting point. Instead, the pitch gradually softens or becomes less viscous as the temperature increases. The purpose of this test method is to provide an arbitrary, but closely defined, method for determining the softening point of pitches, ensuring reproducible test values.

The softening point of pitches is an important parameter in determining the consistency of pitches and establishing uniformity in shipments or sources of supply. This test method can be useful in quality control and evaluating the performance of different pitches.

The test method covers pitches with softening points ranging from 50 °C to 180 °C. The results obtained using this method are comparable to those obtained using Test Method D2319 at temperatures above 80 °C (176 °F).