What is Cloud Point? And the importance of the cloud point test for Lubricants, Fuel and Edible oils.

Cloud Point is the point at which wax crystals begin to form at a certain temperature, due to which the lubricant / fuel / edible oil can appear hazy or cloudy. It can be also said that the temperature when very slight solidification or cloud formation of the oil takes place is the cloud point. It can also be termed as when the liquid becomes turbid in appearance. This usually occurs due to exposure of the lubricant / fuel / edible oil to cold temperatures and long periods of storage.

Cloud Point Test for Lubricants / Fuels / Edible oils

 In the cloud point test, a sample of the lubricant is cooled to a specified temperature while being checked for wax crystal growth. The examination can be carried out visually or with a cloud point tester. In lube oils, the cloud point is the temperature when the lube oil tends to start crystallizing, many such small crystals form a cloud, as such the oil tends to become thick due to solidification of such crystals.

The temperature at which wax crystals start to form in fuel is known as the cloud point. As the temperature lowers, waxes, which are a naturally occurring part of crude oil, tend to precipitate out of the fuel. The wax crystals may enlarge and create aggregates as the temperature falls, which could clog fuel filters and damage engines.

Importance of the Cloud Point Test

 A crucial aspect of fuel that impacts its ability to function at low temperatures is its cloud point. Wax crystals in the fuel can clog filters, limit fuel flow, and cause engine stalling at low temperatures. This is vital for diesel fuels that are used in cold weather because they must operate at low temperatures.

In the creation and selection of fuels for use in cold weather conditions, cloud point is a crucial factor. Fuels with low cloud points are preferred for use in cold weather because they are less likely to crystallise wax and create issues with the fuel system.

Cloud point is an index of the lowest temperature of use or its utility. Cloud point should not be confused with Pour point or Freezing point.

Test methods used by Atlas Lab for determination of Cloud Point are :

 Cloud Point is determined by ATLAS LAB using the following apparatus.