ASTM D471 Reference Oil - IRM 901 / 902 / 903
Rubber testing labs use these three oils for ASTM D471 immersion tests. They replaced the old ASTM No. 1, No. 2, and No. 3 oils.
If you already know which grade you need, jump to the specs table. If not, here's the short version: 901 swells least, 903 swells most. 902 sits in the middle.
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What these are
IRM 901, 902, and 903 are mineral reference oils. They're specified in ASTM D471 and ASTM D5964. The difference between them is aromatic content - 901 has the least, 903 has the most. More aromatics means more swelling on rubber.
That's really the whole point of having three grades: you pick the one that matches the severity you're testing.
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What they're used for
Mostly three things:
Rubber swelling tests. You need repeatable data, so you need a reference oil with known properties. That's what these are.
Elastomer compatibility. Seal, gasket, and hose makers test against these oils to see how their compounds hold up.
QC labs. If you're running ASTM D471, this is the fluid the method calls for.
R&D groups also use them for screening - one product family covers the whole swelling range, so you don't have to source three different oils from three different places.
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Specs
| IRM 901 | IRM 902 | IRM 903 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Replaces | ASTM No. 1 | ASTM No. 2 | ASTM No. 3 |
| Density at 15°C | 882 kg/m³ | 935 kg/m³ | 920 kg/m³ |
| Viscosity at 40°C | 213 mm²/s | 441 mm²/s | 29.5 mm²/s |
| Viscosity at 100°C | 19.1 mm²/s | 18.8 mm²/s | 4.3 mm²/s |
| Flash point COC | 243 °C | 243 °C | 171 °C |
| Aniline point | 123 °C | 94 °C | 70 °C |
| Aromatics | Low | Medium | High |
| Swelling | Low | Medium | High |
Density and viscosity are the two numbers buyers ask about most. IRM 903 is noticeably lighter than 901 and 902 - that's why it's used for the high-swelling end of the range.
Packaging: 1L / 5L / 10L / 20L. Custom sizes available.
Lead time: 3–7 business days from stock.
Documents
Every lot ships with its own COA and SDS. If you need a specific batch or an older lot, ask and we'll dig it up.
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Shipping
Samples go by DHL or FedEx. Bulk orders go air or sea.
FAQ
Which grade should I pick?
Depends on your test. 901 for low swelling, 903 for high. If you're not sure, 902 is a safe starting point - most labs keep all three on the shelf anyway.
Are these direct replacements for ASTM No. 1/2/3?
Yes. ASTM D5964 covers the replacement.
How should I store them?
Cool, dry, sealed. Away from sunlight and oxidizers.
What's the minimum order?
1L for samples. Larger volumes for production.
Can I get batch-specific COA/SDS?
Yes, with every shipment.
Still have questions? Ask our technical team →
Disclaimer: For R&D and industrial use only. Not for therapeutic, diagnostic, food, or cosmetic use. Handle with appropriate PPE. All information for reference only.
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