1.

Generalities of the API standards for their consistent application

BASIC DEFINITIONS:
 API (American Petroleum Institute): North American Petroleum Institute, an organization in
charge of standardizing and normalizing, under strict quality control specifications, different
materials and equipment for the oil industry. It also establishes standards for design,
construction and testing in oil facilities, including equipment design and laboratory testing for
petroleum products.
 CPL): correction factor for the effect of pressure on the liquid. Applies to the meter (CPL M )
and the tester (CPL P ).
 CPS: correction factor for pressure effect on steel for the tester.
 Crude oil: is a mixture of hydrocarbons that exists in the liquid phase and in an underground
reservoir and that remains in the liquid phase at atmospheric pressure after having been
treated in surface separation facilities.
 CSW: Correction factor used as an indicator of the presence of sediment and suspended
water in the crude oil.
 CTPL: combined correction factor for the effect of temperature and pressure on the density
and volume of liquid hydrocarbons according to API MPMS Chapter 11.1-2004. Historically it
is known as VCF.
 CTL: correction factor for the effect of temperature on the liquid. It is the ratio of the density
of a liquid at temperature t and pressure p to its density at the standard temperature of 60°F
and 14.696 psia (or at 15°C and 101.325 kPa). The volume of a liquid at temperature t can
be converted to its volume at reference temperature by multiplying its volume at temperature
t by the CTL at temperature t.
 CTS: correction factor for the effect of temperature on steel.
 Absolute density: is the mass of substance that occupies a unit volume at a specified
temperature, atmospheric pressure, or equilibrium vapor pressure. This definition is
sometimes referred to as "true density" or as "vacuum density." In the petroleum industry, if
the temperature is not indicated, the standard temperature (60 °F or 15 °C) is assumed. The
SI units are kg/m 3 .
 Base density: is the density of the liquid at the reference base temperature of 60.0 ºF. The
base density is determined from the observed density and temperature.
 Density in air (apparent): It is the ratio of the apparent weight of a substance, per unit of
volume.
 Vacuum density (in vacuo): is the ratio of true mass (without the buoyancy effect of air) per
unit volume. Densities reported through ASTM D1298, ASTM D287, ASTM D4052, ASTM
D5002 methods are "in vacuo."
 Relative density: ratio of the density of a substance at a specific temperature to the density of
a reference substance at a reference temperature. The reference temperatures of each one
must be reported. Example: 60°F/60°F means density of liquid at 60°F/density of water at
60°F; 60°F/77°F means density of liquid at 60°F/density of water at 77°F. This expression
replaces the obsolete expression “specific gravity”. It is a dimensionless magnitude and
therefore, without units.
 API Gravity: Method used in the petroleum industry to express the density of petroleum
liquids. API gravity is measured through a hydrometer that has a scale graduated in API
degrees; It is a dimensionless number and because it is derived from the absolute density it
is "in vacuo". The relationship between API gravity and relative density (previously called
specific gravity) is as follows:

The figure 60 °F (or 15 5/9 °C) is used as a standard value for measurement and
measurement reporting.
The instrument for measuring the API degree is called a hydrometer, which, complemented
with a test tube and a thermometer, allows the observed API degrees to be determined.
Then, the respective value at 60 °F is obtained from tables.
 Hydrocarbon: Organic compounds that contain only carbon and hydrogen in their molecules
are called hydrocarbons. They form a carbon structure to which hydrogen atoms are
attached. Hydrocarbons are classified into two main classes: aromatic hydrocarbons which
have at least one aromatic ring (planar set of six carbon atoms) and aliphatic hydrocarbons
which are joined together in open chains, either linear or branched.
 K Factor: number of pulses generated by a flow meter for a unit of volume or mass, usually
defined by the manufacturer.
 MF (Meter Factor): meter calibration factor
 Reference standard: a standard, generally of the highest metrological quality, available at a
given location or organization, from which measurements made at that location are derived.
There are international, national and local patterns.
 Weight: is the measure of the force that gravity exerts on the mass of a body. Normally, it is
considered with respect to the force of Earth's gravity.
 Weight in air (apparent weight): the weight indicated for a substance when it is weighed in air
with a commercial balance or scale that has been standardized, in such a way that the
substance corresponds to a weight in vacuum equal to the nominal mass associated with it.
 During weighing, the air exerts a net buoyant force on the substance equal to the mass of air
displaced by the substance, minus the mass of air displaced by the weights.
 Empty weight (in a vacuum or true weight): the weight of a mass in a vacuum, without the
effect of the buoyant force of the air.
 PET (Portable Electronic Thermometer): Portable electronic thermometer.
 Petroleum: A generally liquid substance, found naturally in the earth and composed primarily
of a mixture of carbon and hydrogen components with or without other nonmetallic
compounds such as sulfur, oxygen, and nitrogen. The compounds that make up petroleum
can be found in a gaseous, liquid or solid state, depending on their nature and the existing
pressure and temperature conditions.
 Ambient pressure: Pressure of the surrounding medium, such as that of a liquid in a pipeline
or the atmosphere.
 Atmospheric pressure: pressure exerted by the weight of the atmosphere. At sea level, the
pressure is approximately 14.7 pounds per square inch (101 kPa), often referred to as
atmosphere, atmospheric pressure, or one-atmosphere pressure.
 Equilibrium pressure: pressure at which a liquid and its vapors are in equilibrium at a given
temperature.
 Reid Vapor Pressure: Vapor pressure of a liquid at 100°F (37.8°C) determined in accordance
with the method for the Vapor Pressure of Petroleum Products (Reid Method). ASTM D323.
 Static pressure: pressure in a fluid or system that is exerted perpendicular to the surface on
which it acts.
 Gauge pressure: pressure measured considering atmospheric pressure as zero.
 Tank Tester: An open or closed container of known capacity designed to accurately
determine the volume of liquid entering or leaving it during the test operation of a meter.
 Ratio or flow rate: term that expresses the speed of the fluid, as a function of volume or
mass. Example: barrels per hour, gallons per minute, cubic meters per hour, or kilograms per
unit of time, etc.
 Refined: mixture of hydrocarbons resulting from physical and chemical treatment processes,
which exist in the liquid phase at atmospheric pressure.
 Repeatability: is the variation obtained between the results of multiple events, measured
under the same operating conditions and carried out by the same method, with the same
instruments, in the same place and within a short period of time.
 Reproducibility: is the measure of the variability between the results of measurements of the
same variable when the individual measurements are carried out with the same method, with
the same type of instrument but with different operators at different sites and after a long
period.
 Resolution: The ability to detect a minimum change in the measured quantity for which the
instrument will react with an observed change in an analog or digital indication.
 Sediment: solid material that may include a combination of sand, oxides, residues and
granulated matter, suspended or settled in hydrocarbons.
 Temperature: is a measure of the heat or thermal energy of the particles in a substance. It is
the physical magnitude that is used to measure in physical terms the sensations of hot and
cold.
 Tolerance: is the range of values in which a magnitude must be found for it to be accepted as
valid, which determines the acceptance or rejection of manufactured components, depending
on whether their values fall within or outside that range.
 Traceability: The ability to trace the history, application or location of system, equipment or
test, by means of registered identifications. It applies to the reference of measuring
equipment in relation to national or international standards, primary standards, basic physical
constants or properties or reference materials. All aspects of traceability requirements, if any,
should be clearly specified, for example in terms of time periods, point of origin or
identification.
 Unit of measurement: particular magnitude, defined and adopted by convention, with which
other magnitudes of the same nature are compared to quantitatively express their
relationship with this magnitude.
 Metrological verification: it is the objective evaluation of the metrological characteristics of
measurement equipment obtained as a result of its calibration, against the metrological
requirements established for the process. Verification determines that the metrological
characteristics of the equipment satisfy those established by a specification. A characteristic
feature of verification is the issuance of a verification certificate, the content of which may be
limited to the suitability or otherwise of the measuring equipment for the specific use, as a
result of the evaluation of conformity with respect to metrological specifications.
 Gross Volume: Indicated volume multiplied by the meter factor (MF) for the specific liquid
and the flow rate under which the meter has been tested.
 Gross Standard Volume (GSV): is the total volume of all oil liquids, sediment and water,
excluding free water, corrected through the appropriate volume correction factor (CTL) for
the observed temperature and gravity. API, relative density or density at a standard
temperature 60°F or 15°C, also corrected by the pressure correction factor (CPL) and the
meter factor (MF).
 Gross Observed Volume (GOV): is the total volume of oil liquids, sediment and water,
excluding free water, at the observed temperature and pressure.
 Composite crude oil volume: is the uncorrected indicated volume, also known as the
multiphase volume determined by a measurement system when the line has been filled.
 Free Water Volume (FWV): Amount of free water determined during measurement of a tank.
 Indicated Volume (IV-Indicated Volume): Change in meter reading that occurs during a
receipt or delivery.
 Net Standard Volume (NSV) is the total volume of all petroleum liquids, excluding sediment
and water (S&W) and free water, corrected by the appropriate volume correction factor (CTL)
for temperature. observed and API gravity, relative density, or density at a standard
temperature such as 60°F or 15°C and corrected by the pressure correction factor (CPL) and
meter factor (MF).
 Total Calculated Volume (TCV): Total volume of all liquid oil plus water and sediment,
corrected by the appropriate volume correction factor (CTL) at the observed temperature and
API gravity, relative density, or density at temperature. standard 60°F or 15°C and also
corrected for the applicable pressure correction factor (CPL) and meter factor (MF), plus all
free water measured at the observed temperature and pressure (standard gross volume plus
water free).
 Total Observed Volume (TOV): Total measured volume of liquid oil, sediment and water,
solids and free water measured at the observed temperature and pressure.

API MPMS (MANUAL OF PETROLEUM MEASUREMENT STANDARDS)

Petroleum industry standard, composed of 22 chapters, described below.
 CHAPTER 1 VOCABULARY

 CHAPTER 2 TANK CALIBRATION

 Chapter 2.2A Measurement and Calibration of Upright Cylindrical Tanks by the Manual
Tank Strapping Method.
 Chapter 2.2B Calibration of Upright Cylindrical Tanks Using the Optical Reference Line
Method.
 Chapter 2.2C Calibration of Upright Cylindrical Tanks Using the Optical-Triangulation
Method.
 Chapter 2.2D Calibration of Upright Cylindrical Tanks Using the Internal Electro Optical
Distance Ranging Method.
 Chapter 2.2E Calibration of Horizontal Cylindrical Tanks - Part 1: Manual Methods
 Chapter 2.2F Calibration of Horizontal Cylindrical Tanks - Part 2: Internal Electro-optical
Distance ranging Method
 Chapter 2.7 Calibration of Barge Tanks.
 Chapter 2.8A Calibration of Tanks on Ships and Oceangoing Barges.
  Chapter 2.8B Recommended Practice for the Establishment of the Location of the
Reference Gauge Point and the Gauge Height of Tanks on Marine Tank Vessels.

 CHAPTER 3 TANK GAUGING

 Chapter 3.1A Standard Practice for the Manual Gauging of Petroleum and Petroleum
Products.
 Chapter 3.1B. Standard Practice for Level Measurement of Liquid Hydrocarbons in
Stationary Tanks by Automatic Tank Gauging.
 Chapter 3.2 Standard Practice for Gauging Petroleum and Petroleum Products in Tank
Cars.
 Chapter 3.3. Standard Practice for Level Measurement of Liquid Hydrocarbons in
Stationary Pressurized Storage Tanks by Automatic Tank Gauging.
 Chapter 3.5. Standard Practice for Level Measurement of Light Hydrocarbon Liquids
Onboard Marine Vessels by Automatic Tank Gauging.
 Chapter 3.6. Measurement of Liquid Hydrocarbons by Hybrid Tank Measurement
Systems.

 CHAPTER 4 PROVING SYSTEMS

 Chapter 4.1 Introduction.
 Chapter 4.2 Displacement Provers.
 Chapter 4.4 Tank Provers.
 Chapter 4.5 Master-Meter Provers.
 Chapter 4.6 Press Interpolation.
 Chapter 4.7 Field Standard Test Measurements.
 Chapter 4.8 Operation of Proving Systems.
 Chapter 4.9.1 Introduction to the Determination of the Volume of Displacement and Tank
Provers
 Chapter 4.9.2 Determination of the Volume of Displacement and Volumetric Tank Provers
by the Water-Draw Method of Calibration
 Chapter 4.9.3 Determination of the Volume of Displacement Provers by the Master Meter
Method of Calibration.

 CHAPTER 5 METERING
 Chapter 5.1 General Considerations for Measurement by Meters.
 Chapter 5.2 Measurement of Liquid Hydrocarbons by Displacement Meters.
 Chapter 5.3 Measurement of Liquid Hydrocarbons by Turbine Meters.
  Chapter 5.4 Accessory Equipment for Liquid meters.
 Chapter 5.5 Fidelity and Security of Flow Measurement Pulsed-Data Transmission
Systems.
 Chapter 5.6 Measurement of Liquid Hydrocarbons by Coriolis Meters.
 Chapter 5.8 Measurement of Liquid Hydrocarbons by Ultrasonic Flow Meters Using
Transit Time Technology.

 CHAPTER 6 METERING ASSEMBLIES

 Chapter 6.1 Lease Automatic Custody Transfer (LACT) Systems.
 Chapter 6.2 Loading Rack Metering Systems.
 Chapter 6.4 Metering Systems for Aviation Fueling Facilities.
 Chapter 6.5 Metering Systems for Loading and Unloading Marine Bulk Carriers.
 Chapter 6.6 Pipeline Metering Systems.
 Chapter 6.7 Metering Viscous Hydrocarbons.

 CHAPTER 7 TEMPERATURE DETERMINATION

 CHAPTER 8 SAMPLING
 Chapter 8.1 Standard Practice for Manual Sampling of Petroleum and Petroleum
Products.
 Chapter 8.2 Standard Practice for Automatic Sampling of Liquid Petroleum and Petroleum
Products.
 Chapter 8.3 Standard Practice for Mixing and Handling of Liquid Samples of Petroleum
and Petroleum Products.
 Chapter 8.4 Standard Practice for Manual Sampling and Handling of Fuels for Volatility
Measurement.

 CHAPTER 9 DENSITY DETERMINATION

 Chapter 9.1 Standard Test Method for Density, Relative Density (Specific Gravity), or API
Gravity of Crude Petroleum and Liquid Petroleum Products.
 Chapter 9.2 Standard Test Method for Density, or Relative Density of Light Hydrocarbons
by Pressure Hydrometer.
 Chapter 9.3 Standard Test Method for Density, Relative Density, and API Gravity of Crude
Petroleum and Liquid Petroleum Products by Thermohydrometer Method.

 CHAPTER 10 SEDIMENT AND WATER

  Chapter 10.1 Standard Test Method for Sediment in Crude Oils and Fuel Oils by the
Extraction Method.
 Chapter 10.2 Determination of Water in Crude Oil by Distillation
 Chapter 10.3 Standard Test Method for Water and Sediment in Crude Oil by the
Centrifuge Method (Laboratory Procedure).
 Chapter 10.5 Standard Test Method for Water in Petroleum Products and Bituminous
Materials by Distillation
 Chapter 10.6 Standard Test Method for Water and Sediment in Fuel Oils by the
Centrifuge Method (Laboratory Procedure)
 Chapter 10.7 Standard Test Method for Water in Crude Oils by Potentiometric Karl
Fischer Titration
 Chapter 10.8 Standard Test Method for Sediment in Crude Oil by Membrane Filtration

 CHAPTER 11 PHYSICAL PROPERTIES DATA

 Chapter 11.1 Temperature and Pressure Volume Correction Factors for Generalized
Crude Oils, Refined Products, and Lubricating Oils.
 Chapter 11.2.1 Compressibility Factors for Hydrocarbons: 0-90°API Gravity Range.
 Chapter 11.2.2 Compressibility Factors for Hydrocarbons: 0.350-0.637 Relative Density
(60°F/60 °F) and - 50 °F to 140 °F Metering Temperature.
 Chapter 11.2.2M Compressibility Factors for Hydrocarbons: 350 - 637 Kilograms per
Cubic Meter Density (15 °C) and –46 °C to 60 °C Metering Temperature
 Chapter 11.2.4 Temperature Correction for the Volume of NGL and LPG Tables 23E, 24E,
53E, 54E, 59E, 60E
 Chapter 11.3.2.1 Ethylene Density
 Chapter 11.3.3.2 Propylene Compressibility
 Chapter 11.4.1 Properties of Reference Materials. Part 1 - Density of Water and Water
Volume Correction Factors for Calibration of Volumetric Provers.
 Chapter 11.5 Density/weight/volume intraconversion
 Chapter 11.5.1 Conversions of API Gravity at 60 °F
 Chapter 11.5.2 Conversions for Relative Density (60/60 °F)
 Chapter 11.5.3 Conversions for Absolute Density at 15 °C

 CHAPTER 12 CALCULATION OF PETROLEUM QUANTITIES.

 Chapter 12.1.1 Calculation of Static Petroleum Quantities Part 1 - Upright Cylindrical
Tanks and Marine Vessels.
  Chapter 12.1.2 Calculation of Static Petroleum Quantities Part 2 - Calculation Procedures
for Tank Cars.
 Chapter 12.2.1 Calculation of Petroleum Quantities Using Dynamic Measurement
Methods and Volume Correction Factors Part 1 - Introduction.
 Chapter 12.2.2 Calculation of Petroleum Quantities Using Dynamic Measurement
Methods and Volumetric Correction Factors Part 2 - Measurement Tickets.
 Chapter 12.2.3 Calculation of Petroleum Quantities Using Dynamic Measurement
Methods and Volumetric Correction Factors Part 3 - Proving Reports
 Chapter 12.2.4 Calculation of Petroleum Quantities Using Dynamic Measurement
Methods and Volumetric Correction Factors Part 4 - Calculation of Base Prover Volumes
by Waterdraw Method.
 Chapter 12.2.5 Calculation of Petroleum Quantities Using Dynamic Measurement
Methods and Volumetric Correction Factors Part 5 - Base Prover Volume Using Master
Meter Method.
 Chapter 12.3 Calculation of Volumetric Shrinkage from Blending Light Hydrocarbons with
Crude Oil.

 CHAPTER 13 STATISTICAL ASPECTS OF MEASURING AND SAMPLING

 Chapter 13.1 Statistical Concepts and Procedures in Measurement.
 Chapter 13.2 Statistical Methods of Evaluating Meter Proving Data.

 CHAPTER 14 NATURAL GAS FLUIDS MEASUREMENT

 Chapter 14.1 Collecting and Handling of Natural Gas Samples for Custody Transfer
 Chapter 14.2 Compressibility Factors of Natural Gas and Other Related Hydrocarbon
Gases (AGA Report No. 8) (GPA 8185-90)
 Chapter 14.3.1 Concentric, Square-edged Orifice Meters. Part 1 - General Equations and
Uncertainty Guidelines.
 Chapter 14.3.2 Concentric, Square-Edged Orifice Meters. Part 2 - Specification and
Installation Requirements.
 Chapter 14.3.3 Concentric, Square-Edged Orifice Meters. Part 3 - Natural Gas
Applications.
 Chapter 14.4 Converting Mass of Natural Gas Liquids and Vapors to Equivalent Liquid
Volumes (GPA-8173-91).
 Chapter 14.5 Calculation of Gross Heating Value, Specific Gravity, and Compressibility of
Natural Gas Mixtures from Compositional Analysis.
 Chapter 14.6 Continuous Density Measurement.
  Chapter 14.7 Mass Measurement of Natural Gas Liquids (GPA 8182-95)
 Chapter 14.8 Liquefied Petroleum Gas Measurements.
 Chapter 14.9 Measurement of Natural Gas by Coriolis Meter (AGA Report No. 11, 2003)
 Chapter 14.10 Measurement of Flow to Flares

 CHAPTER 15 GUIDELINES FOR USE OF THE INTERNATIONAL SYSTEM OF UNITS (SI)

IN THE PETROLEUM AND ALLIED INDUSTRIES

 CHAPTER 16 MEASUREMENT OF HYDROCARBON FLUIDS BY WEIGHT OR MASS.

 Chapter 16.2 Mass Measurement of Liquid Hydrocarbons in Vertical Cylindrical Storage
Tanks By Hydrostatic Tank Gauging.

 CHAPTER 17 MARINE MEASUREMENT.

 Chapter 17.1 Guidelines for Marine Cargo Inspection.
 Chapter 17.2 Measurement of Cargoes On Board Tank Vessels.
 Chapter 17.3 Guidelines for Identification of the Source of Free Waters Associated With
Marine Petroleum Cargo Movements.
 Chapter 17.4 Method for Quantification of Small Volumes on Marine Vessels (OBQ/ROB).
 Chapter 17.5 Guidelines for Cargo Analysis and Reconciliation.
 Chapter 17.6 Guidelines for Determining the Fullness of Pipelines Between Vessels and
Shore Tanks.
 Chapter 17.7 Recommended Practices for Developing Barge Control Factors (Volume
Ratio).
 Chapter 17.8 Guidelines for Pre-Loading Inspection of Marine Vessel Cargo Tanks.
 Chapter 17.9 Vessel Experience Factor (VEF).
 Chapter 17.10.2 Measurement of Refrigerated and/or Pressurized Cargo on Board Marine
Gas Carriers.
 Chapter 17.12 Procedure for Bulk Liquid Chemical Cargo Inspection by Cargo Inspectors.

 CHAPTER 18.1 MEASUREMENT PROCEDURES FOR CRUDE OIL GATHERED FROM

SMALL TANKS BY TRUCK.

 CHAPTER 19 EVAPORATION LOSS MEASUREMENT.

 Chapter 19.1 Evaporative Loss from Fixed-Roof Tanks.
 Chapter 19.1A Evaporation Loss From Low-pressure Tanks
 Chapter 19.2 Evaporative Loss from Floating-roof Tanks.
 CHAPTER 20 ALLOCATION MEASUREMENT OF OIL AND GAS
 Chapter 20.1 Allocation Measurement
 CHAPTER 21 FLOW MEASUREMENT USING ELECTRONIC METERING SYSTEMS.
 Chapter 21.1 Electronic Gas Measurement.
 Chapter 21.2 Flow Measurement-Electronic Liquid Measurement

 CHAPTER 22.1 TESTING PROTOCOLS-GENERAL GUIDELINES FOR DEVELOPING

TESTING PROTOCOLS FOR DEVICES USED IN THE MEASUREMENT OF
HYDROCARBON FLUIDS

BASE CONDITIONS FOR API STANDARDS

The base conditions for the measurement of liquids, such as crude oil and its liquid products,
that have a vapor pressure equal to or less than atmospheric at the base temperature are as
follows:
United States Customary Units (USC): Units of the International System (SI):
Pressure 14,696 psi at (101.325 kPa at ) Pressure 14,696 psi at (101.325 kPa at )
Temperature 60.0°F (15.56°C) Temperature 59.00°F (15.00°C)

For liquids, such as liquid hydrocarbons, that have a vapor pressure greater than the
atmospheric pressure at the base temperature, the base pressure will be the equilibrium vapor
pressure at the base temperature.

USEFUL TABLES FOR THE OIL INDUSTRY

2. Minimum number of liquid temperature measurements in the standard volumetric
container according to its capacity. What numeral or standard does it refer to?

This says the API MPMS CHAPTER 4 SECTION 4 TEST TANKS numeral 5.2 Temperature
measurement:
Measuring the temperature of the test liquid in both the meter and the test tank is essential. All
temperature devices must be verified with a certified thermometer. Temperature devices should
be checked frequently to ensure continuous and accurate indication.
Proper range temperature devices should be accurate to within 1/4°F (1/4°C) or better.
One sensor is acceptable for use on tanks up to 100 gallons (380 liters). The use of two sensors
is recommended in testers larger than 100 gallons (380 liters) but less than or equal to 500
gallons (1900 liters). Three sensors must be used on tanks that have a capacity greater than
500 gallons (1900 liters) or more.
If a sensor is used, it should be placed at the center of the vertical height of the tank tester. If
two sensors are used, one should be located in the upper third of the vertical tank height and
the other in the lower third. If three sensors are used, one should be located within each third of
the height of the test tank. When more than one sensor is used, the sensors should be equally
spaced around the circumference of the tank.

3. Where do you specify the types of meters that can be calibrated by the standard
volumetric vessel method described in API 12.2.3?

The types of meters are not specified, what is specified is the product that can be
calibrated with the RVM. This says the API MPMS CHAPTER 4 SECTION 4 TANKS
TESTERS Numeral 4.5 Closed systems: “If the liquid to be measured with the tester has a high
vapor pressure, a closed tank test system must be used. Open tank testers (with or without
evaporation control) or closed tank testers can be used for liquids that have low vapor pressure.
The distinction between a low vapor pressure liquid and a high vapor pressure liquid depends
on whether its equilibrium vapor pressure is less than or greater than the atmospheric pressure
at the operating temperature.
From the physical-chemical and thermodynamic point of view, volatility is a measure of the
tendency of a substance to pass into the vapor phase, that is, it is the measure of the ease with
which a substance evaporates. The higher the vapor pressure of a liquid at a given temperature,
the greater the volatility.
The general trend is that the higher the API gravity, the lower the density. Likewise,
higher API, higher volatility and lower viscosity.
Table 1. Typical property values of petroleum derivatives.
Product Viscosity, cSt Relative Density, at 15 °C API Gravity at 60°F

Heavy base lubricant 400.0 (at 40°C) 0,90 25,7

Light lubricant base 128.5 (at 40°C) 0,85 34,9

Heavy oil 280.5 (at 40°C) 0,97 13,4

light crude oil 16.7 (at 40°C) 0,86 32,4

Toluene 0.54 (at 20°C) 0,87 31,1

Jet 4.5 (at 20.0°C) 0,86 32,1

ACPM 3.4 (at 40°C) 0,85 34,9

Xylene 0.56 (at 20°C) 0,84 36,9

Gasoline 3.5 (at 40°C) 0,74 59,7

Thus, open tank testers can be used for liquids that have low vapor pressure, low volatility, low
viscosity and medium API, that is, they are suitable for calibrating clean or white products (
gasoline, naphtha, kerosene and diesel ) , as well They are suitable for calibrating light and
medium lubricant bases, they are not suitable for very viscous products (crude oils and heavy
lubricants) because these tend to adhere to the walls of the container, varying the certified
volume of the tester and generating high inaccuracies.

4. If different liquids are used, where can we correct for the effects of vapor pressure and
other characteristics of the hydrocarbons? Taking into account that the volume
standards are calibrated with water.

5. Analysis of sources of uncertainty

The general equation for determining the meter factor is

( V n+Li∗K c )∗C tsp∗C tlp∗C psp∗C plp

FM =
V bmi∗C tsm∗C tlm∗C psm∗C plm
Where:
FM = meter factor calculated at standard condition or meter operating condition
V n = nominal volume of the volumetric measurement at the reference temperature; gallons
L i = reading on the neck scale in the standard volumetric measurement, in event “ i ” ; inch 3
K c = neck scale correction factor; gallon/inch 3
C tsp = wall correction factor for temperature in the volumetric measurement, in event “ i ”
C tlp = correction factor for thermal expansion of the liquid in volumetric measurement, in event “
i”
C psp = pressure wall correction factor in volumetric measurement, in event “ i ”
C plp = correction factor for internal pressure on the liquid in volumetric measurement, in event “ i
”
V bmi = gross volume observed in flow meter at test temperature; gallons
C tsm = wall correction factor due to temperature effect in flow meter, in event “ i ”
C tlm = correction factor for thermal expansion of the liquid in the flow meter, in event “ i ”
C psm = wall correction factor due to pressure effect in flow meter, in event “ i ”
C plm = correction factor for internal pressure on the liquid in the flow meter, in event “ i ”

To achieve an adequate estimate of uncertainty, the following hypotheses are taken into
account:
 The mass of fluid between the meter under calibration and the volumetric standard remains
constant.
 The flow occurs entirely in the liquid phase.
 The flow is stable, that is, with small flow fluctuations that do not change the behavior of the
meter during its calibration to those conditions.
 The fluid temperature in the volumetric standard is the same as the metal temperature in the
volumetric standard.
 A linear approximation is sufficient to estimate the deformation of the volumetric pattern due
to temperature effects.
 The density of the fluid in the volumetric standard is calculated as a function of temperature
and pressure.
 The operating conditions of the measurement system are not affected in the calibration
process.
 During the calibration process, the cavitation phenomenon caused by high instantaneous
velocities in areas of low absolute pressure does not occur.
 The measurement system is not affected by its physical installation, and the vibration and
installation effects caused by the arrangement of pipes and their accessories do not cause
severe vortices or distortions in the velocity profile.

The sources of uncertainty to be taken into account in the calibration of flow meters using a
volumetric measurement as a reference standard are:

 Volume at standard pattern conditions

 Volume determined by the meter under test at operating conditions
 fluid temperature
 Density of the fluid at the test temperature in the meter and in the volumetric measurement
 Temperature correction factor in liquid density
 Cubic coefficient of thermal expansion of the manufacturing material of the volumetric
measurement
 Meniscus reading on graduated neck of volumetric measurement
 Repeatability of the MF of the meter under test

6. Where can I get the CTL calculation using different liquids for calibration (use the
WAGENBRETH equation for the CTL calculation using water according to API 11.2.3.5) is
it valid?

The Wagenbreth equation only applies to calculations when water is used.

For other liquid hydrocarbons, the provisions of the Manual of Petroleum Measurement
Standards Chapter 11—Physical Properties Data Section 1—Temperature and Pressure
Volume Correction Factors for Generalized Crude Oils, Refined Products, and
Lubricating Oils, MAY 2004, whose relationships are summarized in the following equations:
To calculate the CTL,

Where
 T = coefficient of thermal expansion at base temperature T
 T = small correction value at base temperature
 t = difference between the alternating temperature and the base temperature

To calculate the CPL,

Where
P b a = base pressure, psia. For volatile hydrocarbons, the base pressure is the
saturation pressure for the liquid. It is assumed that if the saturation pressure is less than
P atm , there is very little error in applying the correction to a constant base pressure of 1
atm.
Pe a = equilibrium vapor pressure at the measured liquid temperature, psia. For liquids
with equilibrium pressure less than P atm (0 psig, 14.696 psia), the value of P e a is the
atmospheric pressure.
 F = is the compressibility factor
P = Working pressure
If P b a = 0 psig, and P e a is expressed in psig, the above equation becomes the specific way
CPL is calculated in API MPMS 11.1.

7. Which API specifies the methodology for calibrating volume counters by volumetric
method?

Initially, in the API, we do not talk about calibration, we talk about verification and adjustment of
the meter. The API MPMS Chapter 5 Section 2 Measurement of Liquid Hydrocarbons by
Displacement Meters, section 5.2.5.1 methods of adjusting the meter reading, indicates

5.2.5.1 METHODS FOR ADJUSTING THE MEASUREMENT READING

Either method of meter reading adjustment can be used, depending on the meter's intended
application and operating conditions.

5.2.5.1.1 Direct volume reading method

With the first method, the reading is adjusted until the change in the meter reading during a test
is equal to or nearly equal to the volume measured on the tester. It is then sealed to provide
security against unauthorized adjustment. Adjusted meters are most often used on retail
distribution trucks and on the loading frames of trucks and railroad cars, where it is desirable to
have a direct quantity reading without having to apply mathematical corrections. A tight or direct
reading meter is correct only for the liquid and flow conditions under which it was tested.

5.2.5.1.2 Meter factor method

With the second method of meter reading adjustment, the meter reading is not adjusted, and a
meter factor is calculated. The meter factor is a number obtained by dividing the actual volume
of liquid passing through the meter during the test by the volume indicated by the meter. For
subsequent metering operations, the actual throughput or measured volume is determined by
multiplying the meter indicated volume by the meter factor.
When direct quantity reading is not required, the use of a meter factor is preferred for several
reasons:
to. It is difficult or impossible to adjust the meter's calibrating mechanism to record with the
same resolution that is achieved when determining a meter factor.
b. Fitting generally requires one or more rework to confirm the accuracy of the fit.
c. In applications where the meter is to be used with several different liquids or under different
sets of operating conditions, a different meter factor can be determined for each liquid and for
each set of operating conditions.
For most pipelines, terminals, and marine loading and unloading facilities, gauges are initially
set to be correct under average conditions, and mechanisms are sealed in that environment.
Meter factors are then determined for each petroleum liquid and for each set of operating
conditions under which the meters are used. This method provides flexibility and maintains
maximum precision.

The calculation of quantities in dynamic measurement is determined as established in the API

MPMS Chapter 12 Section 2 Part 1 Introduction.

 LIQUID DENSITY:
RHO tp = RHO b  CTL  CPL or with RHO tp / RHO b = CTL  CPL
Where: RHO tp = density of liquid at test temperature and pressure (measured)
RHO b = density of the liquid at the base temperature
CTL = correction factor for temperature in the liquid 
CPL = liquid pressure correction factor
Appendix B of said standard contains a list of recommended liquid versus API correlations in
accordance with the 1981 API document. Where no API correlation currently exists, the
appropriate ASTM standard has been provided.
 CALCULATION OF INDICATED VOLUME:
The indicated volume (IV) is obtained from the subtraction between the volumes indicated on
the meter, at the beginning (MRo) and at the end (MRc) of the verification run.
IV = MRc – MRo

 CALCULATION OF STANDARD GROSS VOLUME:

The gross standard volume (GSV) is obtained from the following physical expression:
GSV = Mas s / RHO b
Remembering that Mass = IV  MF  RHO tp
The following expression is obtained for the calculation of the gross standard volume (GSV):
GSV = IV  CTL  CPL  MF

 CALCULATION FACTOR OF WATER AND SEDIMENT CONTENT ( CSW ):

The percentage of sediment and water (%S&W) is a calculated quantity determined in the
laboratory, from a sample representative of the amount of liquid being measured. It represents
the part of the liquid that is not a hydrocarbon and is calculated as follows
CSW = 1 – (%S&W/100)
If you want to know the volume of water and sediment contained in the liquid, this is determined
with the relationship:
SWV = GSV  [1 – (%S&W/100)]

 CALCULATION OF STANDARD NET VOLUME:

Net standard volume (NSV) is equivalent to the volume of a liquid at its base conditions, which
does not include non-marketable elements such as sediment and water. The formula to
calculate NSV is as follows:
NSV = GSV  CSW

 MAIN CORRECTION FACTORS:

The calculations are based on correcting the measured volume of the petroleum liquid to its
volume at base conditions. Correction factors are provided to adjust the measured volume and
the volume of test or test measurements to the base conditions.

 LIQUID DENSITY CORRECTION FACTORS

Liquid density correction factors are used to account for changes in density due to the effects of
temperature and pressure on the liquid. These correction factors are the following:
CTL corrects the effect of temperature on the density of the liquid.
CPL corrects for the effect of compressibility on liquid density.

 CORRECTION OF THE EFFECT OF TEMPERATURE IN THE LIQUID (CTL)

If a petroleum liquid is subject to a change in temperature, its density will decrease as the
temperature increases or increase as the temperature decreases. This change in density is
proportional to the coefficient of thermal expansion of the liquid, which varies with the base
density (RHO b ) and the temperature of the liquid.
The correction factor for the effect of temperature on the density of the liquid is called CTL.
Appropriate standards for the thermal expansion factor for a liquid (CTL) can be found in
Appendix B ( Liquid density correlation), of the API MPMS Chapter 12 Section 2 Part 1
Introduction.

 CORRECTION FOR COMPRESSIBILITY OF THE LIQUID (CPL)

If a petroleum liquid is subject to a change in pressure, its density will increase as the pressure
increases and decrease as the pressure decreases. This change in density is proportional to the
compressibility factor of the liquid (F), which depends both on its base density (RHO b ) and the
temperature of the liquid. Appropriate standards for the compressibility factor (F) can be found
in Appendix B ( Liquid density correlation), of the API MPMS Chapter 12 Section 2 Part 1
Introduction.
The correction factor for the effect of pressure on liquid density (CPL) can be calculated using
the expression:
CPL = 1 / {1 – [(P - (Pe a - Pb a )] * F)} with (Pe a - Pb a ) > 0
Where:
Pb a = base pressure, in units of absolute pressure.
Pe a = equilibrium vapor pressure at the temperature of the liquid being measured, in units of
absolute pressure.
P = operating pressure, in gauge pressure units.
F = compressibility factor for liquid.
a
The equilibrium vapor pressure (Pe a ) is considered equal to the base pressure (Pb ) for
liquids that have an equilibrium vapor pressure less than or equal to the atmospheric pressure
at the flow temperature.

 CORRECTION FACTORS FOR STEEL IN THE TESTER

Correction factors in the Tester are used to account for changes in volume due to the effects of
temperature and pressure on the steel. These correction factors are the following:
CTS corrects for thermal expansion and/or contraction of the steel at the tester wall due to the
average temperature of the test liquid.
CPS corrects for pressure expansion and/or contraction of the steel at the tester wall due to the
average pressure of the test liquid.
When the volume of the container at baseline conditions (V b ) is known, the volume at any other
temperature and pressure (V tp ) can be calculated from the following equation:
V tp = V b * CTS * CPS
On the contrary, when the volume of the container at any temperature and pressure (V tp ) is
known, the volume under basic conditions (V b ) can be calculated by
V b = V tp / (CTS * CPS)

 CORRECTION OF THE EFFECT OF TEMPERATURE ON STEEL (CTS)

Any metal tester, when subjected to a change in temperature, will change its volume
accordingly. The change in volume, regardless of the shape of the tester, is proportional to the
cubic coefficient of thermal expansion of the material. The cubic coefficient of thermal expansion
is valid when the gauged section is constructed of a single material.
The CTS for pipe testers, open tank testers and portable test measures assumes a
homogeneous material of construction and can be calculated from:
CTS = 1 + [(T - T b ) * G c ]
Where:
G c = Cubic expansion coefficient per degree of temperature of the tester material.
T b = base temperature.
T = Average temperature of the liquid in the container.
The coefficient of cubic expansion (G c ) for a pipe tester or open tank tester should be that
corresponding to the material used in the construction of the calibrated section.
The cubic expansion coefficient (G c ) reported in the tester's Calibration Report, provided by the
calibration company, is the one that will be used for that individual field measurement, however,
if said value is unknown, the values can be used of G c contained in Table 1, if the construction
material of the tester is known.

 CORRECTION OF THE EFFECT OF PRESSURE ON STEEL (CPS)

If a metal container, such as a conventional pipe tester, tank tester or test gauge, is subjected to
internal pressure, the walls of the container will stretch elastically and the volume of the
container will change accordingly.
The correction factor for the effect of internal pressure on volume in pipe testers, open tank
testers and portable test measures, called CPS, can be calculated from
CPS = 1 + ([(P - P b ) * ID] / (E * WT))
Assuming that P b is 0 gauge pressure, the equation simplifies to
CPS = 1 + [(P * ID) / (E * WT)] with ID=OD - 2*WT
Where:
P = internal operating pressure of the tester, in gauge pressure units.
P b = base pressure, in gauge pressure units.
ID = internal diameter of the container.
E = modulus of elasticity for the container material.
OD = outer diameter of the container.
WT = container wall thickness.
The modulus of elasticity (E) from the Calibration Report, provided by the calibration agency, is
the one used for that individual field measurement. However, if this value is unknown, the
values contained in Table 2 will be used if the material of manufacture of the tester is known.

 METER FACTOR AND COMPOSITE METER FACTOR (MF, CMF)

Meter factor (MF) and composite meter factor (CMF) are terms that adjust for inaccuracies
associated with meter performance as determined at the time of testing.
Unless the meter is equipped with an adjustment that alters its registration to account for MF, an
MF must be applied to the meter's indicated volume.
The MF is determined at the time of the test, with the following expression:
MF = GSV p / ISV m

The CMF can be used in applications where gravity, temperature and pressure are considered
constant during the measurement period. The CMF is determined at the time of testing using
the following expression:
CMF = CPL m * MF

 METER ACCURACY FACTOR (MA)

Meter accuracy factor (MA) is a term used specifically on meters used in refined product loading
sites. In most truck loading applications, the meter is adjusted mechanically or electronically, at
the time of testing, to ensure that the meter factor is approximately unity.
This simplifies the bill of lading and accounting problems associated with trucking applications in
refined products service.
The MA is determined at the time of the test with the following expression:
MA = ISV m / GSV p
That is, it is the reciprocal of MF;
MA = 1/MF

 K FACTOR AND K COMPOUND FACTOR (KF, CKF)

For some applications, the K factor (KF) and the composite K factor (CKF), are used to
eliminate the need to apply meter correction factors to the IV.
When changing the K factor or CKF, at the time of testing the meter is electronically adjusted to
ensure that the meter factor is approximately unity.
A new K factor is determined at the time of testing by the following expression:
New KF = Old KF / MF
The CKF can be used in applications where gravity, temperature and pressure are
approximately constant throughout the measurement period. The new CKF is determined at the
time of testing with the following expression:
New CKF = Old CKF / CMF

 COMBINED CORRECTION FACTORS (CCF, CCFp, CCFm)

Multiplying a large number (for example, an IV) by a small number (for example, a correction
factor) over and over again can cause a decrease in the precision of your calculations.
Additionally, errors can occur in mathematical calculations due to sequencing and rounding
between different sequences or programs. To minimize these errors, the industry selected a
method that combines correction factors in a specified sequence and maximum levels of
discrimination.
The method for combining two or more correction factors is to first obtain a CCF by serially
multiplying the individual correction factors and rounding the CCF to a required number of
decimal places.
Three CCFs have been adopted to minimize errors in calculations:
to. To determine the measurement ticket GSV calculation,
CCF = CTL * CPL * MF either CCF = CTL * CPL * CMF
When using temperature compensated meter readings (MR o , MR c , IV), the CTL value must
be set to 1.0000 for CCF measurement ticket calculations.
When using a CMF, the CPL value must be set to 1.0000 for CCF measurement ticket
calculations.
b. To determine the GSV p calculation on the tester
CCF p = CTS p * CPS p * CTL p * CPL p
c. To determine the ISV m calculation on the meter
CCF m = CTL m * CPL m
When using temperature compensated meter readings (MR o , MR c , ISV m ), the CTL value
should be set to 1.0000 for reporting CCF m in the calculation report.

 CORRECTION FOR SEDIMENT AND WATER (CSW)

Sediment and water are not considered commercial components of certain liquid hydrocarbons,
such as crude oil and certain refined products. The correction to adjust the GSV of the liquid for
these non-flammable quantities is defined by the following expression:
CSW = [1 - (%S&W / 100)]

8. Management of the Physicochemical Characteristics of hydrocarbons

The main physical-chemical characteristics that are managed in the oil industry are:
 Determination of density or API gravity
 Determination of Water and Sediment
 Determination of Sulfur content
 Determination of salt content
 Determination of Kinematic Viscosity

DETERMINATION OF DENSITY OR API GRAVITY

ASTM D4052 AND ASTM D5002 METHODS DENSITY IN LIQUIDS AND CRUDE CRUDE.
They are based on a vibrating element that measures the vibration frequency of a tube
containing the fluid. The vibration of a tube is picked up by electromagnetic coils that transmit a
signal indicating the frequency of vibration to an amplifier. The amplified signal is fed back to the
conductive coils, which achieve a resonance vibration at a natural frequency, determined by the
mass of the tube plus the mass of the fluid within it. Since the mass of the tube does not
change, the output frequency changes only due to the change in the mass of the fluid. The
observed reading should be corrected to the reference temperature, following the applicable
ASTM D1250 (Petroleum Measurement Tables) and ASTM D1555 guides for cyclohexane and
aromatics.

ASTM D70 DENSITY METHOD IN ASPHALT

The sample is deposited in a calibrated pycnometer, the pycnometer and the sample are
weighed and the missing volume is completed with water. The filled pycnometer is brought to
the temperature required by the test (softening point of the asphalt) and weighed. The density of
the sample is calculated from its mass and the mass of water displaced by the sample when the
pycnometer is full. The density is corrected following the ASTM D4311 guide.

ASTM D1657 METHOD DENSITY IN LPG.

A pressure cylinder is filled to a level at which the submerged hydrometer floats freely, it is
placed in a constant temperature bath, when the temperature has reached equilibrium, the
hydrometer reading and the temperature of the sample are recorded. The density is corrected to
reference temperature and saturation pressure, using the API MPMS 11.2.4 guides for
temperature correction and API MPMS 11.2.2 with its Addendum for pressure correction.

ASTM D792 METHOD DENSITY IN PLASTICS.

The plastic is immersed in a liquid; By determining the apparent mass in the immersion, the
relative density is inferred from the knowledge of the density of the immersion liquid.
APPLICABLE STANDARDS
 Chapter 9.1 Standard Test Method for Density, Relative Density (Specific Gravity), or API
Gravity of Crude Petroleum and Liquid Petroleum Products.
 Chapter 9.2 Standard Test Method for Density, or Relative Density of Light Hydrocarbons by
Pressure Hydrometer.
 Chapter 9.3 Standard Test Method for Density, Relative Density, and API Gravity of Crude
Petroleum and Liquid Petroleum Products by Thermohydrometer Method.

WATER DETERMINATION
POTENTIOMETRIC ASSESSMENT
The method is referenced by the ASTM D 4377 standard — Standard Test Method for Water in
Crude Oils by Potentiometric Karl Fischer Titration . API Designation: MPMS Chapter 10.7.
This method covers the determination of water within a range of 0.02 to 2% in crude oils
containing less than 500 ppm of sulfur as mercaptans, sulfides or both, with standard Karl
Fischer reagent or pyridine-free Karl Fischer reagents.
After homogenizing the crude oil sample with an immersion mixer, an aliquot is taken and
titrated in a solvent until an electrometric end point is obtained.
For the determination of water, according to Karl Fischer, a non-aqueous medium, an excess of
sulfur dioxide and pyridine are used to neutralize the acids formed. The most suitable solvent
turned out to be methanol. The reaction is redox type and iodine is the oxidizing agent.
Pyridine has been replaced by imidazole and diethanolamine. All reagents must be anhydrous.

DISTILLATION METHOD
This method is referenced by ASTM D 4006 — Standard Test Method for Water in Crude Oil by
Distillation . API Designation: MPMS Chapter 10.2.
The method consists of heating the sample under reflux conditions with a solvent immiscible in
water. The condensed solvent and water are continuously separated in a trap, with the water
remaining in the graduated part of the trap and the solvent returning to the distillation flask.
Xylene is used as a solvent.
The distillation equipment setup consists of: a distillation flask, a condenser, a graduated glass
trap, and a heater. Before its initial use, the trap must be calibrated according to the instructions
indicated in the standard.
The volume of water obtained is reported as a fraction or percentage of the initial volume of the
crude oil sample.

APPLICABLE STANDARDS
 ASTM D95 Tests for determining water in crude oil and petroleum products by the distillation
method.
 ASTM D 4377 Determination of water content for hydrocarbons by the Karl Fischer method
of Potentiometric Titration.
 ASTM D4928 Method for determination of water content by the Karl Fischer method of
Voltametric Titration (concordant chapter 10.9 of the API MPMS)
 Chapter 10.2 Determination of Water in Crude Oil by Distillation
 Chapter 10.5 Standard Test Method for Water in Petroleum Products and Bituminous
Materials by Distillation
 Chapter 10.7 Standard Test Method for Water in Crude Oils by Potentiometric Karl Fischer
Titration

DETERMINATION OF SEDIMENTS
WATER AND SEDIMENT BY CENTRIFUGE
By this method, the water and sediment content (BSW) in crude oil, fuel oil and ACPM can be
determined. The method is not entirely satisfactory, since the amount of water detected is
almost always less than the actual content. When greater accuracy is required, the water by
distillation or titration and sediment by extraction methods can be used. To perform this method,
a solvent saturated with water must be used for the test to be representative.

SEDIMENT IN CRUDE OIL AND FUEL OIL BY THE EXTRACTION METHOD

This method is applied for the determination of sediment in crude oils and fuel oils by extraction
with toluene in accordance with ASTM D473 Standard Test Method for Sediment in Crude Oils
and Fuel Oils by the Extraction Method. API Designation: MPMS Chapter 10.1 . The precision of
the method applies to a range of sediment levels from 0.01 to 0.40% by mass, although higher
levels can be determined.
A test portion of a representative sample, which is contained in a refractory thimble, is extracted
with hot toluene until the residue shows a constant mass. The mass of the waste calculated as
a percentage is reported as sediment per extraction.

APPLICABLE STANDARDS
 Chapter 10.1 Standard Test Method for Sediment in Crude Oils and Fuel Oils by the
Extraction Method.
 Chapter 10.3 Standard Test Method for Water and Sediment in Crude Oil by the Centrifuge
Method (Laboratory Procedure).
 Chapter 10.6 Standard Test Method for Water and Sediment in Fuel Oils by the Centrifuge
Method (Laboratory Procedure)
 Chapter 10.8 Standard Test Method for Sediment in Crude Oil by Membrane Filtration
 ASTM D 4007 — Standard Test Method for Water and Sediment in Crude Oil by the
Centrifuge Method (Laboratory Procedure). API Designation: MPMS, Chapter 10.3
 API MPMS 10.4 — Determination of Water and/or Sediment in Crude Oil by the Centrifuge
Method (Field Procedure)
 ASTM D 2709— Standard Test Method for Water and Sediment in Middle Distillate Fuels by
Centrifuge
 ASTM D 1796 — Standard Test Method for Water and Sediment in Fuel Oils by the
Centrifuge Method (Laboratory Procedure)