Report On

Internship
SGS Pakistan (Private) Limited
Karachi

Submitted By:
Syed Zain Adil
Nimra Siddiq
Noman Shah
Zahid Shaikh

Department of Chemical Engineering

University of Karachi
Page |1
 Acknowledgement
At first, we are thankful to our Allah Almighty, who gives us strength to complete this
report. Then we would like to thank my honorable teacher "Dr. Shagufta Ishtiyaque" for
giving me the opportunity to do our internship under her guidance. We are very much
gratified to our teacher "Dr. Shagufta Ishtiyaque" for making us work and also guiding
us in our internship which is a very important aspect of our study life that will help us a
great deal in our professional life.
There is no doubt of the fact that preparing this report has been a great experience for us
while doing us internship in SGS. We also thank to honorable "Sir Irshad Ahmed"
assistant manager, "Sir Raheel Anjum " deputy manager, and "Sir Ahsan Mehmood”
senior executive officer at SGS Pakistan private Limited Karachi (OGC department) for
consulting us and the great cooperation. According to his direction, we become capable to
make the report more appropriately.
Many people, especially oil, gas and chemical (OGC) Department SGS team members have
made valuable comment suggestions on this proposal which gave us an inspiration to
improve our report. We thank all those people for their help directly and indirectly to
complete our internship report.
Finally, we owe many thanks to our respective teacher & our family for their constant
support and encouragement.

Declaration
This is informing that the internship report in "SGS Pakistan private limited, Karachi" has
been prepared in partial fulfillment of our B.E degree from University of Karachi. It has
been prepared for academic purposes only. we also confirm that this report is uniquely
prepared by us after the completion of our practical experience in SGS Pakistan private
limited, Karachi as an intern.

Page |2
 Table of Contents
Acknowledgement ....................................................................................................................... 2
Declaration .................................................................................................................................. 2
Purpose of the report ................................................................................................................... 5
Scope of the report ...................................................................................................................... 5
Objective of the report................................................................................................................. 5
i. Primary Objectives: ..................................................................................................................... 5
ii. Secondary Objectives .................................................................................................................. 5
Methodology ............................................................................................................................... 6
1. Primary Source ............................................................................................................................ 6
2. Secondary Source........................................................................................................................ 6
Limitation of the report................................................................................................................ 6
Company Profile .......................................................................................................................... 7
History......................................................................................................................................... 7
Introduction ................................................................................................................................ 7
Core Services ............................................................................................................................... 7
i. Inspection.................................................................................................................................... 7
ii. Testing ......................................................................................................................................... 8
iii. Certification............................................................................................................................. 8
iv. Verification .............................................................................................................................. 8
SGS IN PAKISTAN ......................................................................................................................... 8
Mission ........................................................................................................................................ 8
Vision .......................................................................................................................................... 8
Values ......................................................................................................................................... 9
SGS Business Principles ................................................................................................................ 9
SGS Slogans ................................................................................................................................. 9
Job Description ............................................................................................................................ 9
First (1st) Week Assign Work ...................................................................................................... 10
Visit biofuel lab................................................................................................................................. 10
What is Bio Ethanol .................................................................................................................... 10
Ethanol Industry in Pakistan ....................................................................................................... 11
Export of Ethanol in Pakistan ...................................................................................................... 11
Grades of Alcohol....................................................................................................................... 12
Testing....................................................................................................................................... 13
Physical Test .............................................................................................................................. 13

Page |3
 ❖ Visibility Test............................................................................................................................ 13
❖ Odor Test of Ethanol (ASTM E-769-85) .................................................................................. 13
❖ Water Miscibility Test (ASTM D-1722) .................................................................................. 13
Chemical Test ............................................................................................................................ 14
❖ Permanganate Time Test (ASTM D-1363) ............................................................................... 14
❖ Acidity as Acetic Acid / (Acid Number) (ASTM D-1613)....................................................... 14
❖ Ultraviolet Transmittance of Ethanol (Using UV Spectrophotometry) .................................... 15
❖ Purity of Ethanol by Gas Chromatography (ASTM D-5501-20).............................................. 16
Second (2nd) Week Assign Work ................................................................................................ 18
Visit petroleum lab............................................................................................................................ 18
What is Petroleum Products ....................................................................................................... 18
What is Crude Oil? ..................................................................................................................... 18
How it separated ....................................................................................................................... 18
Crude oil extraction.................................................................................................................... 18
Testing....................................................................................................................................... 19
Test Method .............................................................................................................................. 20
ASTM ............................................................................................................................................... 20
ISO .................................................................................................................................................... 20
Quality Control ................................................................................................................................. 20
❖ Sulphur Analyzer (ASTM D-4294) .......................................................................................... 20
❖ Viscometer (ASTM D-7042) .................................................................................................... 21
❖ Cold Filter Plugging Point (ASTM D-6371) ............................................................................ 22
❖ Particle Settling (ASTM D-6217) ............................................................................................. 24
❖ Automatic Distillation (ASTM D-86) ....................................................................................... 25
❖ Water By Distillation (ASTM D-95) ........................................................................................ 26
❖ Density Meter (ASTM D-4052)................................................................................................ 28
❖ Sediment In Crude Oil (ASTM D-473) .................................................................................... 29
❖ Pour Point and Cloud Point (ASTM D-97) ............................................................................... 30
❖ Bomb Calorimeter (ASTM D-240) ........................................................................................... 31
Conclusion ................................................................................................................................. 33

Page |4
Purpose of the report
This report has some purpose along with testing and analyzing process of Oil, Gas and
Chemicals in SGS Pakistan (Private) Limited. to get a clear concept of testing and analyzing
process in the organization.

Scope of the report

This study makes an attempt to cover within its scope almost all the significant aspects of
testing and analyzing process which followed by SGS Pakistan (Private) Limited.

It gives an opportunity to do a potential work where we can show our personal views,
ideas, creativities and etc.

Objective of the report

Every task is undertaken with primary & secondary objectives; without any objective, the
task is rendered meaningless. These objectives for undertaking this report are:
i. Primary Objectives:
➢ To discuss about the company of SGS Pakistan Limited as a whole with describing
how they usually maintain their testing & analyzing lab section which can be a role
model for other inspecting company.

➢ To fulfill the partial requirement as internship of B.E Chemical Engineering

program.

➢ To gain Knowledge of OGC department working in SGS Pakistan (private) limited,

Karachi.

➢ Developing Leadership skills, motivation, loyalty, better attitudes, and other aspects
that successful workers and managers.

ii. Secondary Objectives

➢ To explore different term of testing & analyzing part of SGS Pakistan (Private)
Limited.

➢ To find out how SGS have operated their endeavors.

➢ To know how they practicing their testing & analyzing lab of OGC.

Page |5
 Methodology
We have completed our internship report on the basis of primary and secondary data. Our
report’s objective is providing an analysis of testing lab of OGC practices in SGS Pakistan
(Pvt) Ltd. The analytical framework of the study is qualitative which is conducted through
both on the primary and secondary data
The data are being collected in two ways:

1) Primary Source.
2) Secondary Source.

1. Primary Source
As this is an internship report, the major concepts of the topic have come through active
participation and observation of four (04) weeks internship program in OGC labs, SGS
Pakistan (Private) Limited, Karachi. Besides that, some questionnaires were asked to the
concerned personnel for comprehending the concept more.

2. Secondary Source
Different kinds of information about the company and equipment’s of testing labs are collected
from documents while we were dealing with those documents. Also, we used internet (mainly the
website- www.sgsgroup.pk), brochures, books, journals, reports, and data from various official
and unofficial sources etc.

Limitation of the report

The following limitations are faced during the course of the study.

i. Shortage of time: Time shortage is a big constrains. This is really difficult to absorb
the vast area of corporate experience within such short time. And so, the time constraint
of the study hindering the course of vast area and for preparing a report within the
mentioned period is really difficult.

ii. Insufficient data: Sensitive company information cannot be displayed in this report.
Due to confidentiality of the department, some delicate information cannot be
collected.

iii. As SGS is a multinational company, internet information is not sufficient.

iv. As per company policy financial data are not accessible.

Page |6
 Company Profile

History
SGS established in 1878, SGS transformed grain trading in Europe by offering innovative
agricultural inspection services. The Company was registered in Geneva as Société
Générale de Surveillance in 1919. Shares were first listed on (SWX) Swiss Exchange in
1985. Since 2001, it has only one class of shares consisting of registered shares.

From our beginnings in 1878 as a grain inspection house, it has steadily grown into role as
the industry leader. SGS have done this through continual improvement and innovation and
through supporting our customers’ operations by reducing risk and improving productivity.

Introduction
SGS is the world’s leading inspection, verification, testing and certification company. It
recognized as the global benchmark for quality and integrity. SGS has more than 97,000
employees. It operates a network of more than 2,600 offices and laboratories around the
world. SGS began as a grain inspection house, and has steadily grown into the industry
leader. They have done this through continual improvement, innovation and dedication to
meet the needs of their valued customers.

Core Services
SGS core services can be divided into four categories, they are described in the bellow:

i. Inspection
It has comprehensive range of world-leading inspection and verification services, such
as checking the condition and weight of traded goods at transshipment, help you to
control quantity and quality, and meet all relevant regulatory requirements across
different regions and markets.

Page |7
 ii. Testing
SGS global network of testing facilities, staffed by knowledgeable and experienced
personnel, enable to reduce risks, shorten time to market and test the quality, safety and
performance of products against relevant health, safety and regulatory standards.

iii. Certification
SGS enable to demonstrate that products, processes, systems or services are compliant
with either national or international standards and regulations or customer defined
standards, through certification.

iv. Verification
SGS ensure that products and services comply with global standards and local
regulations. Combining global coverage with local knowledge, unrivalled experience
and expertise in virtually every industry, SGS covers the entire supply chain from raw
materials to final consumption.

SGS IN PAKISTAN
SGS Pakistan was established in 1952 and was one of the first Swiss companies to be set
up in a newly born country. Today, SGS Pakistan has evolved into a dynamic team of
specialists in the related disciplines of quality verification, supported by state-of-the-art
testing laboratories and advanced technology.

Our philosophy is aimed at customer satisfaction, quality staff development and

teamwork. With our head office in Karachi and offices across the country, we offer a
broad range of services to all sectors, including agricultural, mineral, environmental, oil,
gas and chemical, and industrial, helping to mitigate risks, expedite workflow and assure
quality standards. We protect the interest of our clients and provide peace of mind
enabling our clients to focus on their core business

Mission
To ensure Customer needs are met, enhance development and satisfaction of employees as
well as increase trust of their clients & customer.

Vision
SGS aim to be the most competitive and the most productive service organization in the
world. Core competencies of SGS Pakistan are inspection, verification, testing and
certification are being restlessly improved to better class. By ability SGS choose markets
and determined by competitive and to consistently deliver unique service to our customers
all over the world.

Page |8
Values
SGS ask to be characterized by their passion, integrity, entrepreneurialism and their
innovative spirit, as they continually strive to fulfill our vision. These values guide them in
all that they do and are the bedrock upon which their organization is built.

SGS Business Principles

SGS has six business principles. They are:

i. Integrity (Making sure we build Trust).

ii. Health & Safety (Making sure we establish safe and healthy workplaces).
iii. Quality & Professionalism (Making sure we act and Communicate
Responsibility).
iv. Respect (Making sure we treat all people fairly).
v. Sustainability (Making sure we add long-term value to society).
vi. Leadership (Making sure we work together and think ahead).

SGS Slogans
• WHEN WE NEED TO BE SURE
• THINK
• LOOKING AHEAD

Job Description
As an intern of SGS Pakistan Private Limited Karachi, we were assigned to work under the
CRS & OGC department. By this we get the opportunity to learn about the corporate tasks
of CRS & OGC testing and inspection in different span of these sectors. According to our
engineering discipline (Chemical Engineering), we were mostly work in Oil, gas and
Chemical Department (OGC). There are two section/sectors in OGC department. First one
is biofuel testing lab and second one is petroleum products testing lab.

Page |9
First (1st) Week Assign Work
Visit biofuel lab
• Learn about different Equipment / Machines & Tests (like spectrophotometer,
turbidimeter, water chiller bath, Gas chromatograph, Sulphur and nitrogen test
analyzer etc.).
• How can perform permanganate test of ethanol, acidity test, water miscibility, UV
curve etc.

What is Bio Ethanol

Bioethanol is mainly produced by the sugar fermentation process, although it can also be
manufactured by the chemical process of reacting ethylene with steam.
The main sources of sugar required to produce ethanol come from or energy crops. These
crops are grown specifically for energy use and include corn, sugar cane, maize and wheat
crops, waste straw, willow and popular trees, sawdust, reed canary grass, cord grasses,
Jerusalem artichoke, miscanthus and sorghum plants. There is also ongoing research and
development into the use of municipal solid wastes to produce ethanol fuel.
Ethanol or ethyl alcohol (C2H5OH) is a clear colorless liquid, it is biodegradable, low in
toxicity and causes little environmental pollution if spilt.
Ethanol can be obtained in industries by the following procedure.

P a g e | 10
Ethanol Industry in Pakistan
Molasses fermentation is done for ethanol production in Pakistan. About 40 kg of molasses
is produced per ton of cane from which about 10 liters of ethanol can be obtained. If the
sugarcane is directly and fully used in ethanol manufacture, the yield of ethanol is 70 liters
per ton. Currently 21 distilleries produce industrial alcohol in the country. As many as eight
distilleries have so far installed the molecular sieve technology to process industrial ethanol
into fuel ethanol. Most of these distilleries are a part of sugar mills and are situated on site,
making the production cycle an integrated one.

Export of Ethanol in Pakistan

By exporting molasses only US $100 million can be named while by using raw molasses
to produce blended ethanol fuel, Pakistan can save precious foreign exchange of about $600
million.

According to Volza's Pakistan Export data of Ethanol. In 2021 ethanol shipments from
Pakistan are 622. Exported by 38 suppliers.

Data sheet of export of ethanol from Pakistan

2016 304,696.409 (MTons)

2017 416,619.994 (MTons)

2018 349,491.318 (MTons)

2019 349,491.318 (MTons)

2020 229,639.453 (MTons)

2021 353,936.717 (MTons)

P a g e | 11
Grades of Alcohol
1. 95% Ethanol (95.6%, to be precise)

This particular substance is azeotrope. That means that both its liquid and vapor states are
the same in terms of their ratio of water and ethanol. 95% Ethanol is a chemical with the
highest concentration of ethanol that you can get through the distillation process. It is also
known as rectified spirit.

USES:

• Useful in medical applications such as making hand sanitizer, disinfectants, drugs,

etc.
• for cosmetic products, dermatology, etc.

2. Anhydrous Ethanol (99% Ethanol)

Extra-neutral anhydrous ethanol also known as absolute ethyl alcohol is made up of 99.9%
ethanol and 0.1% of water.

USES:

• Solvent for industrial application and in laboratories

• Antiseptic
• Fuel Ethanol / Motor fuel
• Inks
3. Denatured Alcohol
As the name implies, this is alcohol that has changed its natural state (which is why de-
natured). They are created in such a way so that humans cannot use them for consumption
or for food processing.

USES:

• It is used as a solvent and as a fuel for alcohol burner

• Use as a cleaning agent
• As a wax remover and glue dissolver

What are the things you need to consider when selecting a grade of ethyl alcohol?
• Water Content
• Alcohol Content (% Purity or Proof of Alcohol)
• Impurity Profile (Residual Solvents, DNase / RNase absence)
• Denaturant (Yes/No) and Type
• Is it Food Grade Ethanol?
• Is it Lab Grade Ethanol?
• Is it Reagent Grade Ethanol?
P a g e | 12
 Testing
Whenever a sample of ethanol arrives in the laboratory for testing purpose various test are
performed on it, including physical and chemical test. Physical test includes Visual tests,
Water miscibility test, Odour test and Chemical test includes Gas Chromatography test,
UV curve test, Strength test, Acidity test, Turbidity and Sulphur content test as per
requirement.

Physical Test
❖ Visibility Test
The first clarity test of any ethanol sample is done to find out it contains particles or not,
because particles can alter its properties by distorting its transparency.

❖ Odor Test of Ethanol (ASTM E-769-85)

These test methods cover procedures for observing characteristic and residual odors and
estimating odor intensity of ethanol for the purpose of determining their odor acceptability.
Several test methods are included and any or all may be used. These test methods may be
used for both denatured and undenatured alcohols. This way we can easily tell the
difference between denatured and neutral ethanol.

❖ Water Miscibility Test (ASTM D-1722)

Water miscible solvents such as acetone, ethanol and isopropanol may contain water
immiscible impurities including solid particles, high molecular weight compounds, odor
producing chemicals and insoluble solvents. These impurities may interfere with end-use
applications. Because Ethanol is soluble in water primarily because of the presence of -OH
group that allows or enables it to form hydrogen bonds with water molecules. In other
words, ethanol is soluble in water because it is a polar solvent. This test determines the
presence of water immiscible substances in ethanol. It may be used to assess if a solvent
is appropriate for a given application or determine specification adherence.
PROCEDURE
Transfer 25 mL of the sample to one of two clean 250-mL graduated cylinders, dilute to
the 250–mL mark with water, and mix thoroughly. Allow any bubbles to rise to the surface.
Add 250 mL of water to the second cylinder and reserve as a blank. Compare the specimen
solution with the water blank by viewing through the length of the column of liquid toward
a dark background. When an artificial light source is used, position the light so that it passes
transversely through the cylinders.
If the specimen-water mixture is as free of cloudiness or turbidity as the blank, report the
sample as “passes test.” If any cloudiness or turbidity is detected after 30 min, report as
“fails test.”

P a g e | 13
 Chemical Test
❖ Permanganate Time Test (ASTM D-1363)
Permanganate Time Test (PTT) is a standard quality control test for oxidizable impurities
in products such as ethanol, acetic acid, acetic anhydride, acetone, methanol, pyridine, and
propionic acid. The test relies on visual assessment of the change in pink coloration over a
period of time of a sample of product to which has been added a standard solution of
potassium permanganate. Typically, the time period for neutral ethanol is 25 to 30 min but
if there is any kind of impurities in it, so the color of ethanol changes quickly.

The SGS company uses the ASTM D1363 method to perform this test.

PROCEDURE
Fill a 50-mL Nessler tube beyond the mark with the sample under test and place in the
constant-temperature chiller bath. Maintain the water level in the bath approximately 25
mm (1 in.) below the top of the tube. When the specimen has reached the specified
temperature, bring the level to the 50-mL mark. With a pipet, add 2 mL of the KMnO4
solution. Stopper the tube, invert once to mix the contents, return to the bath and note the
time. At the end of the minimum time specified for the material being tested, remove the
tube and compare it to the color standard by viewing downward through the tube against a
white background from which diffused white light is reflected.

❖ Acidity as Acetic Acid / (Acid Number) (ASTM D-1613)

ACIDITY
It is the amount of acid in a substance. An acid is a chemical that gives off hydrogen ions
in water and forms salts by combining with certain metals.
SGS Pakistan private Limited is using ASTM D-1613 method to find out the acid number
present in ethanol by titration.
PROCEDURE
• Measure into a 250-mL Erlenmeyer flask 50 mL of water, if the sample is
completely water soluble, or 50 mL of alcohol, if the sample is not completely
water-soluble.
• Add 2,3 drops of phenolphthalein indicator solution.
• Titrate the water or alcohol with 0.05 N NaOH solution to the first perceptible
pink color.
• Pipet 50 mL of the sample into the flask.
• Titrate with the 0.05 N NaOH solution to the same first perceptible pink color
originally obtained.

Acidity = volume of NaOH × 0.12 × N of NaOH / density of sample

P a g e | 14
❖ Ultraviolet Transmittance of Ethanol (Using UV
Spectrophotometry)
Spectrophotometry is a method to measure how much a chemical substance absorbs light
by measuring the intensity of light as a beam of light passes through sample solution. The
basic principle is that each compound absorbs or transmits light over a certain range of
wavelength. This measurement can also be used to measure the amount of a known
chemical substance.
spectrophotometer is an instrument that measures the number of photons (the intensity of
light) absorbed after it passes through sample solution. Depending on the range of
wavelength of light source, it can be classified into two different types:
• UV-visible spectrophotometer
• IR spectrophotometer

In SGS Pakistan private Limited they are using UV VISIBLE spectrophotometer lambda
25 by Perkin Elmer.

UV VISIBLE spectrophotometer
It uses light over the ultraviolet range (185 - 400 nm) and visible range (400 - 700 nm) of
electromagnetic radiation spectrum.

MECHANISM

P a g e | 15
PRINCIPLE
It works on the principle of Beer Lambert Law which states that:
BEER LAMBERT LAW also known as Beer's Law states that there is a linear relationship
between the absorbance and the concentration of a sample.

A=ϵlc
Where;
A is the measure of absorbance,
ϵ is the molar extinction coefficient or molar absorptivity (or absorption coefficient),
l is the path length, and
c is the concentration.

PROCEDURE
• First of all, QC sample is poured in the cuvette of path length 1 cm to check the
performance of spectrophotometer.
• Then sample of ethanol is taken in the cuvette and placed in UV Spectrophotometer
lambda 25
• All the necessary information is given to the software and curve is obtained.
• This curve shows either impurities is present in ethanol or not.
• If yes then the sample will go through GC as per request.

❖ Purity of Ethanol by Gas Chromatography (ASTM D-5501-20)

Gas Chromatography or Gas Liquid Chromatography is a technique applied for separation,
identification and quantification of components of a mixture of organic compounds by
selective partitioning between the stationary phase and mobile phase inside a column
followed by sequential elution of separated components.

Purpose of Gas Chromatography

The main purpose of the gas chromatography technique is to separate the compounds that
possess:

• High volatility
• Low molecular weights
• Thermal stability

P a g e | 16
There are three major steps involved with separating and identifying components of a
mixture using a GC. They are:

1) Injecting a sample into the GC. (This takes place at the inlet.)
2) Separating the sample into individual components. (This takes place inside the
column in the oven.)
3) Detecting what compounds were in the sample. (This is done in the detector.)

In SGS they are using GC by Agilent technologies 7890-A (ASTM D5501-20)

PRINCIPLE
Components in the mixture are distributed between two phases, one of which is a stationary
phase, and the other is a mobile phase gas, or carrier gas, that carries the mixture through
the stationary phase. Compounds in the mobile phase interact with the stationary phase as
they pass through. Due to the differences in properties and structures of each component,
the size and affinity of each interaction with the stationary phase are different. Therefore,
under the same driving force, the retention time of different components differs in the
column, thus moving out of the column in different orders.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
Mobile phase : Helium
Stationary phase : Silica
Injector : G4513
Sample size : 0.1 to 0.5 micro liter
Temp. Of column : 15 -60 ˚C

Temp. Of injector : 300 ˚C

Detector: flame ionization detector

P a g e | 17
The test takes place by ASTM D 5501-20 method and thus the impurities or components
present in ethanol are determined.

Second (2nd) Week Assign Work

Visit petroleum lab
• Learn about different Equipment / Machines & Tests (like Sulphur analyzer, flash
point tester (open and close cup), etc.).
• How can Perform these tests.
• Learn about many concepts of fuel, some basic and detailed information about their
Tests they are performing

What is Petroleum Products

Petroleum products are materials derived from crude oil (petroleum) as it is processed in
oil refineries. The majority of petroleum is converted to petroleum products, which includes
several classes of fuels.

According to the composition of the crude oil and depending on the demands of the market,
refineries can produce different shares of petroleum products. the largest share of oil
products is used as "energy carriers", i.e., various grades of fuel oil and gasoline. these fuels
include or can be blended to give gasoline, jet fuel, diesel fuel, heating oil, and heavier fuel
oils.

What is Crude Oil?

Crude oil means a mixture of hydrocarbons that exists in liquid phase in natural
underground reservoirs and remains liquid at atmospheric pressure after passing through
surface separating facilities.

How it separated
Oil is produced (extracted) using different methods depending on geology and location.
After recovering the oil, it is sent to refineries to create refined products we use every day,
such as gasoline.

Crude oil extraction

The crude oil is extracted from natural reservoir that is present underground. The following
steps are followed for the crude oil extraction.
• Drilling
• Cementing
• Well completion
• Fracking
• Production
Crude reservoir in the world
P a g e | 18
Once the crude is extracted from underground it is sent to refinery where the further fuels
is extracted from this raw crude.
In distillation tower the following species is separated from crude.

Testing
Whenever a sample of petroleum products such as kerosene, petrol, diesel, etc. arrives in
the laboratory for testing purpose various test are performed on it, including Sulphur
analyzer, flash point, etc. as per requirements.
In the petroleum lab the following fuels are widely tested.
• Gasoline
• Fuel oil
• Lubricating oil

P a g e | 19
 • Diesel
• Naphtha
• Furnace oil
For the analysis the following references are widely used

Test Method
ASTM
ASTM International, formerly known as American Society for Testing and Materials, is an
international standards organization that develops and publishes voluntary consensus
technical standards for a wide range of materials, products, systems, and services.

ISO
ISO (International Organization for Standardization) is an independent, non-governmental,
international organization that develops standards to ensure the quality, safety, and
efficiency of products, services, and systems.

Quality Control
The quality of the test is strictly following the precision of data in which reproducibility
and repeatability are on main focus. In the context of an experiment, repeatability measures
the variation in measurements taken by a single instrument or person under the same
conditions, while reproducibility measures whether an entire study or experiment can be
reproduced in its entirety.

❖ Sulphur Analyzer (ASTM D-4294)

It is a technique by which SGS Pvt. Ltd analyze the Sulphur content in a sample of fuel.

Method:

This test method provides rapid and precise measurement of total sulfur in petroleum and
petroleum products with a minimum of sample preparation. A typical analysis time is 1 to
5 min per sample. These materials can include diesel fuel, jet fuel, kerosine, other distillate
oil, naphtha, residual oil, lubricating base oil, hydraulic oil, crude oil, unleaded gasoline,
gasohol, biodiesel etc.

Instrument: EDXRF Sulphur analyzer

Model: Petra 4294

P a g e | 20
Principle / technique
The sample is placed in the beam emitted from an X-ray tube. The resultant excited
characteristic X radiation is measured, and the accumulated count is compared with counts
from previously prepared calibration samples to obtain the sulfur concentration in mass %
or PPM and mg/kg.
X - rays pass through sample and detect the Sulphur content in ppm or wt.%.
Procedure
• Power on the main switch and start the instrument.
• Take empty sample cup.
• Fill it properly with given sample.
• Place the Sulphur free thin film on the cup and sealed the cup.
• Make sure there is no any traces of sample out of the cup.
• Place the cup in chamber
• Insert the password of instrument give the sample ID.
• Choose the analyzing method and run
• After required time the total Sulphur content will show on screen.

❖ Viscometer (ASTM D-7042)

Instrument Name

Viscometer (ASTM D-7042)

Introduction
This test method covers and specifies a procedure for the concurrent measurement of both
the dynamic viscosity, η, and the density, ρ, of liquid petroleum products and crude oils,
both transparent and opaque. The kinematic viscosity, ν, can be obtained by dividing the
dynamic viscosity, η, by the density, ρ, obtained at the same test temperature.
The result obtained from this test method is dependent upon the behavior of the sample and
is intended for application to liquids for which primarily the shear stress and shear rate are
proportional (Newtonian flow behavior).
The precision has only been determined for those materials, viscosity ranges, density
ranges, and temperatures as indicated in Section 15 on Precision and Bias. The test method
can be applied to a wider range of materials, viscosity, density, and temperature. For
materials not listed in Section 15 on Precision and Bias, the precision and bias may not be
applicable.
Working Principle
The test specimen is introduced into the measuring cells, which are at a closely controlled
and known temperature. The measuring cells consist of a pair of rotating concentric
P a g e | 21
cylinders and an oscillating U-tube. The dynamic viscosity is determined from the
equilibrium rotational speed of the inner cylinder under the influence of the shear stress of
the test specimen and an eddy current brake in conjunction with adjustment data. The
density is determined by the oscillation frequency of the U-tube in conjunction with
adjustment data. The kinematic viscosity is calculated by dividing the dynamic viscosity
by the density
Instrument Picture

Procedure
• Switch on the instrument (Viscometer).
• Set the desire temperature and sample “ID”.
• When temperature got maintain wash the cell with kerosene and alcohol.
• Pass air from the cell for making sure there is no any traces of kerosene and alcohol.
• Take 10ml sample in syringe and pass from the cell to rinse the tube.
• After rinse, pass some sample for analyzing the viscosity its density at given
temperature.
• Take three reading at the given temperature and report the average if readings are
repeatable.

❖ Cold Filter Plugging Point (ASTM D-6371)

Instrument Name

Cold filter plugging point (ASTM D-6371)

Introduction
This test method covers the determination of the cold filter plugging point (CFPP)
temperature of diesel and domestic heating fuels using either manual or automated
apparatus. NOTE 1—this test method is technically equivalent to test methods IP 309 and
EN 116.
P a g e | 22
The manual apparatus and automated apparatus are both suitable for referee purposes.
This test method is applicable to distillate fuels, including those containing a flow-
improving or other additive, intended for use in diesel engines and domestic heating
installations.
Basic Principle
A specimen of the sample is cooled under specified conditions and, at intervals of 1°C, is
drawn into a pipet under a controlled vacuum through a standardized wire mesh filter. The
procedure is repeated, as the specimen continues to cool, for each 1°C below the first test
temperature. Testing is continued until the amount of wax crystals that have separated out
of solution is sufficient to stop or slow down the flow so that the time taken to fill the pipet
exceeds 60 s or the fuel fails to return completely to the test jar before the fuel has cooled
by a further 1°C
Instrument Picture

Procedure
• Fill up the tank with ethanol
• Switch on the instrument
• Now, fill test tube with given sample up to the mark.
• After every 2°C fall in temperature of sample, stirrer and check for plugging point.
• Once crystal formation take place note the plugging point temperature and report.

P a g e | 23
❖ Particle Settling (ASTM D-6217)
Instrument Name
Particle settling (ASTM D-6217)
Introduction
This test method covers the determination of the mass of particulate contamination in a
middle distillate fuel by filtration. This test method is suitable for all No. 1 and No. 2 grades
in Specifications D 396, D 975, D 2880 and D 3699 and for grades DMA and DMB in
Specification D 2069.
This test method is not suitable for fuels whose flash point as determined by Test Methods
D 56, D 93 or D 3828 is less than 38°C. NOTE 1—Middle distillate fuels with flash points
less than 38°C have been ignited by discharges of static electricity when the fuels have
been filtered through inadequately bonded or grounded membrane filter systems. See Test
Methods D 2276 and D 5452 for means of determining particulate contamination in
Specification D 1655 aviation turbine fuels and other similar aviation fuels. See Guide D
4865 for a more detailed discussion of static electricity formation and discharge.
The precision of this test method is applicable to particulate contaminant levels between 0
to 25 g/m3 provided that 1 L samples are used and the 1 L is filtered completely. Higher
levels of particulate contaminant can be measured, but are subject to uncertain precision.
Basic principle
A measured volume of about 1 L of fuel is vacuum filtered through one or more sets of 0.8
µm membranes. Each membrane set consists of a tared nylon test membrane and a tared
nylon control membrane. When the level of particulate contamination is low, a single set
will usually suffice; when the contamination is high or of a nature that induces slow
filtration rates, two or more sets may be required to complete filtration in a reasonable time.
After the filtration has been completed, the membranes are washed with solvent, dried, and
weighed. The particulate contamination level is determined from the increase in the mass
of the test membranes relative to the control membranes, and is reported in units of g/m3
or its equivalent mg/L.
Instrument Picture

P a g e | 24
Procedure
• Take 2 filter paper and weigh.
• Clean filter medium by using n-heptane.
• Place filter paper on filter medium and assemble the apparatus.
• Make sure there is no leakage.
• Take one liter sample in volumetric flask and turn on vacuum
• Start pouring the sample.
• After filtering put filter paper in oven for at least five minutes.
• Weigh filter paper and calculate amount of particle settling.

❖ Automatic Distillation (ASTM D-86)

Instrument Name

Automatic distillation (ASTM D-86)

Introduction
This test method covers the atmospheric distillation of petroleum products and liquid fuels
using a laboratory batch distillation unit to determine quantitatively the boiling range
characteristics of such products as light and middle distillates, automotive spark-ignition
engine fuels with or without oxygenates (see Note 1), aviation gasolines, aviation turbine
fuels, diesel fuels, biodiesel blends up to 20 %, marine fuels, special petroleum spirits,
naphtha’s, white spirits, kerosine, and Grades 1 and 2 burner fuels.
The test method is designed for the analysis of distillate fuels; it is not applicable to products
containing appreciable quantities of residual material.
This test method covers both manual and automated instruments.
Unless otherwise noted, the values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The
values given in parentheses are provided for information only.
Basic principle
Based on its composition, vapor pressure, expected IBP or expected EP, or combination
thereof, the sample is placed in one of four groups. Apparatus arrangement, condenser
temperature, and other operational variables are defined by the group in which the sample
falls.
A 100 mL specimen of the sample is distilled under prescribed conditions for the group in
which the sample falls. The distillation is performed in a laboratory batch distillation unit
at ambient pressure under conditions that are designed to provide approximately one
theoretical plate fractionation. Systematic observations of temperature readings and
volumes of condensate are made, depending on the needs of the user of the data. The
volume of the residue and the losses are also recorded.

P a g e | 25
At the conclusion of the distillation, the observed vapor temperatures can be corrected for
barometric pressure and the data are examined for conformance to procedural requirements,
such as distillation rates. The test is repeated if any specified condition has not been met.
Test results are commonly expressed as percent evaporated or percent recovered versus
corresponding temperature, either in a table or graphically, as a plot of the distillation curve.
Instrument Picture

Procedure
• Turn on the instrument.
• Make sure it is clean before starting distillation.
• Take sample upto the mark (100ml) in the volumetric cylinder of automatic
distillation.
• Instrument will detect and satisfy the volume.
• Once the volume of sample (100ml) satisfied convert it into the round bottle flask
of the automatic distillation.
• Select one group out of four on the basis of sample.
• Start distillation and wait till the distillation complete.
• Note the results and report.

❖ Water By Distillation (ASTM D-95)

Instrument Name

Water by distillation (ASTM D-95)

P a g e | 26
Introduction

This test method covers the determination of water in the range from 0 to 25 % volume in
petroleum products, tars, and other bituminous materials by the distillation method.

NOTE —Volatile water-soluble material, if present, may be measured as water.

Basic principle
The material to be tested is heated under reflux with a water-immiscible solvent, which co-
distills with the water in the sample. Condensed solvent and water are continuously
separated in a trap, the water settling in the graduated section of the trap and the solvent
returning to the still.

Instrument Picture

Procedure
• Turn on the instrument.
• Make sure it is clean before starting distillation.
• Take sample upto the mark (100ml) in the volumetric cylinder of automatic
distillation.
• Instrument will detect and satisfy the volume.
• Once the volume of sample (100ml) satisfied convert it into the round bottle flask
of the automatic distillation.
• Select one group out of four on the basis of sample.
• Start distillation and wait till the distillation complete.
• Note the results and report.

P a g e | 27
❖ Density Meter (ASTM D-4052)
Instrument Name

Density meter (ASTM D-4052)

Introduction
This test method covers the determination of the density, relative density, and API Gravity
of petroleum distillates and viscous oils that can be handled in a normal fashion as liquids
at the temperature of test, utilizing either manual or automated sample injection equipment.
Its application is restricted to liquids with total vapor pressures (see Test Method D5191)
typically below 100 kPa and viscosities (see Test Method D445 or D7042) typically below
about 15 000 mm2 /s at the temperature of test. The total vapor pressure limitation however
can be extended to >100 kPa provided that it is first ascertained that no bubbles form in the
U-shaped, oscillating tube, which can affect the density determination. Some examples of
products that may be tested by this procedure include: gasoline and gasoline-oxygenate
blends, diesel, jet, base stocks, waxes, and lubricating oils
Waxes and highly viscous samples were not included in the 1999 interlaboratory study
(ILS) sample set that was used to determine the current precision statements of the method,
since all samples evaluated at the time were analyzed at a test temperature of 15 °C. Wax
and highly viscous samples require a temperature cell operated at elevated temperatures
necessary to ensure a liquid test specimen is introduced for analysis.
The values stated in SI units are regarded as the standard, unless stated otherwise. The
accepted units of measure for density are grams per milliliter (g/mL) or kilograms per cubic
meter (kg/m3).
Basic Principle
A small volume, approximately 1 mL to 2 mL, of liquid sample is introduced into an
oscillating sample tube and the change in oscillating frequency caused by the change in the
mass of the tube is used in conjunction with calibration data to determine the density,
relative density, or API Gravity of the sample. Both manual and automated injection
techniques are described.
Instrument Picture

P a g e | 28
Procedure
• Switch on the instrument (Density meter).
• Set the desire temperature and sample “ID”.
• When temperature got maintain wash the cell with kerosene and alcohol.
• Pass air from the cell for making sure there is no any traces of kerosene and alcohol.
• Take 10ml sample in syringe and pass from the cell to rinse the tube.
• After rinse, pass some sample for analyzing the density at given temperature.
• Take three reading at the given temperature and report the average if readings are
repeatable.

❖ Sediment In Crude Oil (ASTM D-473)

Instrument Name

Sediment in crude oil (ASTM D-473)

Introduction
This test method covers the determination of sediment in crude oils and fuel oils by
extraction with toluene. The precision applies to a range of sediment levels from 0.01 to
0.40 % mass, although higher levels may be determined. NOTE 1—Precision on recycled
oils and crank case oils is unknown and additional testing is required to determine that
precision.
The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values given in
parentheses are for information only.
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. For
specific warning statements, see 5.1.1.6 and 6.1
Working Range 0.01% m/m to 0.40% m/m.
Instrument Picture

P a g e | 29
Procedure
• Assemble the apparatus.
• Take 200ml fresh toluene in the round bottom.
• Weigh the thimble used for sediment.
• Take 5-6ml sample solution and note the weigh.
• Hang the thimble with sample in the round bottom flask of distillation and start
heating.
• Once clear solution is start dropping out from the thimble take out the thimble
• Place thimble in oven

❖ Pour Point and Cloud Point (ASTM D-97)

Instrument Name

Pour point and Cloud point (ASTM D-97)

Working Range 0.01% m/m to 0.40% m/m

Introduction
This test method covers and is intended for use on any petroleum product. A procedure
suitable for black specimens, cylinder stock, and non-distillate fuel oil is described in 8.8.
The cloud point procedure formerly part of this test method now appears as Test Method
D2500.
Currently there is no ASTM test method for automated Test Method D97 pour point
measurements.
Several ASTM test methods offering alternative procedures for determining pour points
using automatic apparatus are available. None of them share the same designation number
as Test Method D97. When an automatic instrument is used, the ASTM test method
designation number specific to the technique shall be reported with the results. A procedure
for testing the pour point of crude oils is described in Test Method D5853.
The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement
are included in this standard. WARNING—Mercury has been designated by many
regulatory agencies as a hazardous material that can cause central nervous system, kidney
and liver damage. Mercury, or its vapor, may be hazardous to health and corrosive to
materials.
Basic Principle
After preliminary heating, the sample is cooled at a specified rate and examined at intervals
of 3°C for flow characteristics. The lowest temperature at which movement of the specimen
is observed is recorded as the pour point. The pour point of a petroleum specimen is an
index of the lowest temperature of its utility for certain applications.

P a g e | 30
Instrument Picture

Procedure
• Pour the specimen into the test jar up to the mark
• Close the test jar with cork carrying the high –pour thermometer.
• Place the disk in the bottom of the jacket place the gasket around the test jar.
• Maintain the temperature and place this test jar into the chamber.
• After the specimen has cooled to allow the formation of paraffin wax crystals.
• This formation of paraffin wax crystals
• Weigh the thimble used for sediment.
• Take 5-6ml sample solution and note the weigh.
• Hang the thimble with sample in the round bottom flask of distillation and start
heating.

❖ Bomb Calorimeter (ASTM D-240)

Instrument Name

Pour point and Cloud point (ASTM D-240)

Introduction
This test method covers the determination of the heat of combustion of liquid hydrocarbon
fuels ranging in volatility from that of light distillates to that of residual fuels.
Under normal conditions, this test method is directly applicable to such fuels as gasolines,
kerosine’s, Nos. 1 and 2 fuel oil, Nos. 1-D and 2-D diesel fuel and Nos. 0-GT, 1-GT, and
2-GT gas turbine fuels.
This test method is not as repeatable and not as reproducible as Test Method D 4809.

P a g e | 31
The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard.
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
Basic Principle
Heat of combustion is determined in this test method by burning a weighed sample in an
oxygen bomb calorimeter under controlled conditions. The heat of combustion is computed
from temperature observations before, during, and after combustion, with proper allowance
for thermochemical and heat transfer corrections. Either isothermal or adiabatic calorimeter
jackets can be used. Temperatures can be measured in degrees Celsius.
Temperatures can be recorded in either degrees Fahrenheit or ohms or other units when
using electric thermometers. Use the same units in all calculations, including
standardization.
Time is expressed in calculations in minutes and decimal fractions thereof. It may be
measured in minutes and seconds. Masses are measured in grams and no buoyancy
corrections are applied
Instrument Picture

Procedure
• Attach the cotton thread in the center of ignition wire.
• Clean the crucible and weigh sample about 0.4-0.6gm in it then insert it into the
holder and make sure it is fit.
• Put the thread into the crucible and close the decomposition vessel by union nut.
• Fill the oxygen up to the limit, insert it into bomb calorimeter and fill chilled water
for circulation.
• Connect the terminals to the vessel.
• Give the Sulphur content and start the process.
• Bomb calorimeter will automatically calculate and give the calorific value of sample
and its proper graph.
P a g e | 32
Conclusion
SGS is a multinational and one of the world’s leading inspection, verification, testing and
certification company. SGS has done this through continual improvement, innovation and
dedication to meet the needs of their valued customers. We students have been completed
our internship in oil and gas department (OGC). The oil and gas department basically has
two labs, one is petroleum lab while other is ethanol lab. ASTM and ISO standards are
followed by labs for their tests but for some group test they follow the especial tests which
are confidential. The company is well organized and has experienced staff. Staff of SGS is
very cooperative and humble with the interns throughout their duration. As we worked on
the Sulphur analyzer, automatic distillation, pour point, clouds point, plugging point, total
acid no, density meter, viscometer, particle sediments, gas chromatography, ICP and bomb
calory meter. The result and conditions of the apparatus is highly appreciable and every
test in SGS has its own importance. We are very thankful to the SGS management for
allowing us to do internship in OGC. Specially, we are most thankful to the staff of OGC
for sharing their experience and knowledge with us in the great way.

P a g e | 33