ASTM D287

Accurate determination of the gravity of petroleum and its products is necessary for the conversion of measured volumes to volumes at the standard temperature of 60°F (15.56°C).

Gravity is a factor governing the quality of crude oils. However, the gravity of a petroleum product is an uncertain indication of its quality. Correlated with other properties, gravity can be used to give approximate hydrocarbon composition and heat of combustion.

1. Scope

1.1 This test method covers the determination by means of a glass hydrometer of the API gravity of crude petroleum and petroleum products normally handled as liquids and having a Reid vapor pressure (Test Method D 323) of 26 psi (180 kPa) or less. Gravities are determined at 60ˌF (15.56°C), or converted to values at 60F, by means of standard tables. These tables are not applicable to nonhydrocarbons or essentially pure hydrocarbons such as the aromatics.

Note 1—The international version of this test method is described in Test Method D 1298.

1.2 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard.

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 and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. For specific hazard statements, see 8.3.

2. Referenced Documents

D1250 Guide for Use of the Petroleum Measurement Tables
D1298 Test Method for Density, Relative Density (Specific Gravity), or API Gravity of Crude Petroleum and Liquid Petroleum Products by Hydrometer Method
D323 Test Method for Vapor Pressure of Petroleum Products (Reid Method)
E1 Specification for ASTM Liquid-in-Glass Thermometers
E100 Specification for ASTM Hydrometers
IP Specifications for Petroleum Hydrometers
Specifications for IP Standard Thermometers

Index Terms

API gravity; crude petroleum; hydrometer; thermohydrometer; thermometer; ICS Number Code 75.080

Citing ASTM Standards

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