ASTM E1-14 (2025) PDF

Full title and description

Standard Specification for ASTM Liquid-in-Glass Thermometers — designation E1‑14 (published as E1‑14(2025)). Specifies the construction, scales, immersion requirements, allowable scale errors, and identification of liquid‑in‑glass thermometers (including enclosed‑scale/Beckmann thermometers) commonly used in ASTM test methods.

Abstract

This specification defines the physical and performance requirements for liquid‑in‑glass thermometers used within ASTM test methods. It lists standard ASTM thermometer types, their temperature ranges, immersion levels, and maximum allowable scale errors, and includes requirements for materials, marking, and handling. The document also highlights safety considerations for mercury‑containing instruments and points users to verification and calibration procedures.

General information

• Status: Active
• Publication date: May 1, 2025
• Publisher: ASTM International
• ICS / categories: 17.200.20 — Temperature‑measuring instruments
• Edition / version: E1‑14 (original revision 2014); current designation issued/confirmed 2025 as E1‑14(2025)
• Number of pages: 51

Scope

This specification covers the construction and identification requirements for various liquid‑in‑glass thermometers graduated in degrees Celsius or degrees Fahrenheit that are used in ASTM methods. It includes requirements for standard laboratory thermometers and enclosed‑scale (Beckmann) thermometers, specifying temperature range categories, immersion levels (partial, complete, extending stem), allowable scale error limits, and physical marking and packaging. The scope also addresses compatibility with verification and inspection procedures and notes safety considerations for mercury and other thermometric liquids.

Key topics and requirements

• Definitions and classification of ASTM liquid‑in‑glass thermometer types (general purpose, precision, Beckmann/enclosed‑scale, etc.).
• Specified temperature ranges and recommended immersion levels for each thermometer type.
• Maximum permissible scale errors (tolerances) and methods for reporting scale accuracy.
• Material and construction requirements for stems, bulbs, and scale markings.
• Identification, labeling, and documentation requirements (type, range, error limits, manufacturer).
• Compatibility with verification and calibration procedures (references to inspection/test methods).
• Safety and handling guidance, including warnings and precautions for mercury‑containing thermometers.
• Tables listing recommended ASTM thermometers for typical laboratory ranges and uses.

Typical use and users

Used by calibration and testing laboratories, standards and conformity assessment bodies, equipment manufacturers, research and quality control laboratories, academia, and technical committees that specify thermometer requirements in test methods. Typical applications include laboratory temperature measurements, calibration references, and selection of thermometers for use in ASTM test procedures.

Related standards

Commonly used together with ASTM E77 (Test Method for Inspection and Verification of Thermometers), ASTM E2251 (Specification for Liquid‑in‑Glass Thermometers with Low‑Hazard Precision Liquids) and guidance such as ASTM D8055 (guide for selecting electronic replacements) and NIST calibration guidance (e.g., NIST SP 250‑23). Users should consult these documents for verification, alternative low‑hazard liquids, and replacement guidance.

Keywords

liquid‑in‑glass thermometers, ASTM thermometers, Beckmann, enclosed‑scale, mercury thermometers, thermometer calibration, scale error, immersion level, temperature measurement

FAQ

Q: What is this standard?

A: It is ASTM E1‑14 (designated E1‑14(2025)), the Standard Specification for ASTM Liquid‑in‑Glass Thermometers, specifying types, construction, ranges, and allowable errors for commonly used laboratory liquid‑in‑glass thermometers.

Q: What does it cover?

A: The document covers thermometer classification, temperature ranges, immersion requirements, maximum scale errors, materials and markings, and safety/handling guidance for liquid‑in‑glass thermometers (including Beckmann/enclosed‑scale types).

Q: Who typically uses it?

A: Calibration labs, test laboratories, instrument manufacturers, quality/control personnel, and technical committees that reference specific thermometer types in test methods.

Q: Is it current or superseded?

A: The specification is published/confirmed with the designation E1‑14(2025) and is listed as an active ASTM specification. Users should check ASTM International for the absolute current status before relying on the standard for procurement or compliance.

Q: Is it part of a series?

A: Yes — it is part of the E20 committee suite on temperature measurement and is commonly used with related documents such as E77 (inspection/verification), E2251 (low‑hazard liquid alternatives), and other E20 subcommittee publications.

Q: What are the key keywords?

A: liquid‑in‑glass, thermometer, Beckmann, scale error, immersion, mercury, calibration, ASTM thermometers.