Comparison between BS6580 and ASTM D3306

2025 08/08

Both ASTM D3306 (a standard of the American Society for Testing and Materials) and BS 6580:1992 (a British

standard) specify the performance of engine coolants (antifreeze). However, due to differences in their

formulation backgrounds, applicable scenarios, and technical focuses, there are significant variations in scope of

application, performance requirements, and testing methods. The following is a comparative analysis from

core dimensions:

I. Scope of Application and Product Positionin

Dimension

ASTM D3306

BS 6580:1992

Core

Positioning

A comprehensive specification covering

coolants for automotive and light-duty engines

A specification focusing on the

anti-corrosion performance of engine refrigerant concentrates

Coolant Types

Explicitly includes ethylene glycol-based, propylene glycol-based, ethylene

glycol-glycerin blended coolants, etc., and allows coolants made from

recycled/reprocessed raw materials

Primarily targets traditional ethylene glycol-based concentrates; no clear mention of propylene glycol or

recycled raw materials

Application Scenarios

Applicable to liquid-cooled internal combustion engines in automobiles, light trucks, etc.,

covering new coolants and maintenance coolants

Applicable to various liquid-cooled internal combustion engines

(including automotive and industrial engines), with an emphasis on the initial performance of concentrates

Dilution

Requirements

Specifies that concentrates should be diluted at a volume ratio of 40%-70% for use, or

high-concentration (≥50%) products can be used directly

No clear dilution ratio; only

emphasizes that concentrates must meet performance requirements after dilution