1.1 These practices cover sampling of new electrical insulating liquids including oils, askarels, silicones, synthetic liquids, and natural ester insulating liquids as well as those insulating liquids in service or subsequent to service in cables, transformers, circuit breakers, and other electrical apparatus. These practices apply to liquids having a viscosity of less than 6.476 × 10^-4 m²/s (540 cSt) at 40 °C (104 °F).

1.2 Representative samples of electrical insulating liquids are taken for test specimens so that the quality pertinent to their use may be determined. The quality in different portions of a given container, or the average quality of the whole bulk may be ascertained if desired.

1.3 The values stated in SI units are regarded as the standard where applicable. Inch pound units are used where there is no SI equivalent.

1.4 These practices also include special techniques and devices for sampling for dissolved gases-in-oil (DGA) (D3612), water (D1533) and particles (D6786).

1.5 For ease of use, this document has been indexed as follows:

1.6 Handle askarels containing polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) according to federal and local regulations existing for that country. For example, the federal regulations concerning PCBs in the United States can be found in 40 CFR Part 761.

1.7 Properly contain, package and dispose of any liquid or material resulting from the use of these practices in a manner that is in accordance with local and state regulations specific to the country in which the samples are taken.

1.8 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, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. Specific warning statements are given in 1.6, 1.7, Section 5, 10.1, 13.2, 15.2.3, Section 16, and 18.2. These practices involve close contact with the electrical insulating liquids being sampled as well as liquids and other materials used to clean the sampling tools and devices. When required, or as a matter of diligence to personal safety, use personal protective equipment (PPE).

1.9 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.