Meaning and Purpose
5.1 Density is the weight per unit volume. It is a key property for identification, characterization and quality control of various materials. Density measurements expressed in weight per gallon are commonly used to check paint quality. If the density is not within the specification, there is a high probability of mischarging or other serious problems.

5.2 The test method is suitable for determining the density of paint and related products and components in liquid form. It is particularly applicable when the fluid viscosity is too high or the components are too volatile to determine the density equilibrium.

5.3 This test method provides the maximum accuracy required to determine the hiding power. It is equally suitable for jobs requiring lower accuracy, ignoring recalibration directions and considering temperature differences, and using “weight per gallon” cups as containers.

5.4 Several manufacturers offer automatic equipment for measuring density (see Test Method D4052). Such devices have been used for resins and latex as well as oils and solvents. The results need to be examined very carefully before such devices can be used for a given product. Especially for paints, inks, and resins, bonding, scaling, and other interference with operation may occur.

ASTM D1475-2020 Standard Test Method for Density of Liquid Coatings, Inks, and Related Products

Scope of
1.1 This test method covers the density measurement of paints, inks, varnishes, varnishes and their constituents (except pigments) in liquid form.

1.2 Test method D1963 can be used to determine specific gravity and density in order to obtain higher accuracy when dealing with non-tinted materials (dry oils, varnishments, resins and related materials).

1.3 Values expressed in SI units shall be regarded as standards. The values given in parentheses are for reference only.

1.3.1 Exception-Density values are expressed in inch-pounds.

1.4 This standard is not intended to address all safety issues, 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 to determine the applicability of regulatory restrictions prior to use. Specific precautions are given in 8.1.1.1.

1.5 This international Standard has been developed in accordance with the internationally recognized standardization principles established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guidelines and Recommendations issued by the Committee on Technical Barriers to Trade of the World Trade Organization.