1100 Manual Tank Gauging

1100 Manual Tank Gauging
Contents Page
1110 General 1100-2

1120 Tank Gauging for Liquid Level 1100-4
1121 Terminology and Equipment
1122 Operating Guidelines
1123 Procedure
1130 Temperature Determination 1100-26
1133 Procedure
Chevron Corporation 1100-1 November 1997

1100 Manual Tank Gauging Petroleum Measurement Manual
1110 General
Tank gauging often refers to a process of measuring the height of a liquid in a
storage tank. Free water gauging (mostly on crude), tank temperature measurement,
and tank sampling are often performed at the same time that the liquid level is
taken. Because of the length of the text to cover all these, this section covers only:
• Manual tank gauging of liquid level (including free water as appropriate).
• Manual temperature measurement.
Manual and automatic tank sampling are covered in Section 1300. Automatic tank
gauging and temperature measurement are covered in Section 1200.
Manual measurement requires measuring (gauging) from a designated point at the
top of the tank.
In addition to establishing the liquid level in a tank, any free water is gauged, and
the average liquid temperature is determined.
The liquid level is converted to an overall, total gauged volume (at observed temper-
ature) using the tank calibration table.
Any free water determined at the bottom of the tank is deducted from the overall
volume to arrive at a total observed volume.
The liquid temperature is used in conjunction with the product density to arrive at
the volume correction factor (VCF). The VCF is used to convert the volume at
observed temperature to a “gross” volume at a reference temperature (e.g., 60°F or
15°C).
Finally, suspended sediment and water (S&W), determined from a representative
tank sample and by using proper laboratory testing, is deducted from the “gross”
volume to arrive at a dry, or “net standard” volume.
API Standard 2545, Method of Gauging Petroleum and Petroleum Products (1965)
is the standard for pressurized tanks and marine vessels, and railroad tank cars
(both pressurized and non-pressurized).
API MPMS, Chapter 3.1A, Standard Practice for the Manual Gauging of Petroleum
and Petroleum Products is the standard for gauging crude petroleum and its liquid
products except for pressurized tanks and marine vessels, and railroad tank cars
(both pressurized and non-pressurized).
November 1997 1100-2 Chevron Corporation

Petroleum Measurement Manual 1100 Manual Tank Gauging
Safety Precaution
Physical Characteristics of Petroleum and Petroleum Related Substances:
Personnel involved with the gauging of petroleum and petroleum related
substances should be familiar with their physical and chemical characteris-
tics, including potential for fire, explosion and reactivity, and appropriate
emergency procedures. They should comply with individual company safe
operating practices and local, state and federal regulations including the use
of proper protective clothing and equipment.
Static Electricity Hazards: To eliminate hazard from static electricity,
ground your body by touching the steel stair rail, platform, or tank shell
when approaching the top of a tank and before opening the gauge hatch.
Ropes or cords used to suspend measuring instruments may generate or
retain a static charge. Do not use ropes or cords made from synthetic fibers
or personal items of clothing, such as coveralls, made from materials known
to generate static electricity. Do use an electrically conductive tape. Gauge
tapes and bobs shall be grounded to the tank by maintaining contact
between the gauge tape and the gauge hatch from the moment the gauge
bob enters the hatch until at least such time as the bob enters the liquid.
Never gauge a tank during an electrical (lightning) storm.
Gas Hazards: Petroleum vapor displaces oxygen and may be toxic. During
and after the opening of the gauge hatch, stand upwind so that gas will not
be inhaled. Harmful vapors or oxygen deficiency cannot always be detected
by smell, visual inspection, or judgment. Appropriate precautions should be
used for the detection of toxic vapors or oxygen deficiency. When necessary,
suitable fresh air breathing equipment should be worn prior to entering the
gauge site (e.g., walking down onto a floating tank roof) and during the
gauging procedure.
Electronic Gauging Equipment: Portable electronic sensing devices for level,
interface, free water or temperature must be certified by a suitable agency
as safe for use in flammable atmospheres with liquids that accumulate static
charges.
Flashlights: Flashlights shall be Coast Guard certified for use in flammable
atmospheres. Flashlights should not be switched on or off in the vicinity of
open gauge hatches or in areas where flammable vapors may be present.

1120 Tank Gauging for Liquid Level

Fig. 1100-1 Reference Point
Reference Point (or Reference Mark). The fixed
point or mark at or near the top of a tank from
which measurements are made. This point may be a
bench-mark or a small fixed plate inside the
gauging hatch, a narrow groove cut horizontally on
the inside of the hatch, or the edge of a fixed metal
arm which is attached to the tank shell, and projects
a short distance above the gauging hatch but is not
in contact with it. (See Figure 1100-1.)
Fig. 1100-2 Reference Height

Reference Height (or Reference Depth). The
distance from the reference point to the bottom of
the tank or to a Datum Plate. Although this
distance is often marked or stenciled on the tank
(on the roof near the gauging hatch or on the tank
shell), the reference height may change for various
reasons over time. (See Figure 1100-2.)

Fig. 1100-3 Datum Plate

Datum Plate. A level metal plate, preferably
attached to the tank shell, or attached to the bottom
of the stilling well, located under the reference
point at or near the tank bottom to provide a fixed
contact surface for the innage bob. (See
Figure 1100-3.)
Fig. 1100-4 Cut

Cut. The line or demarcation on the measuring
scale made by the material being measured. (See
Figure 1100-4.)
Fig. 1100-5 Innage Gauge

Innage Gauge (or Dip). The depth of liquid in a
tank, measured from the surface of the liquid to the
tank bottom or to a fixed datum plate. (See
Figure 1100-5.)

Fig. 1100-6 Outage Gauge

Outage Gauge (or Ullage). The distance from the
reference point to the surface of the liquid in a tank.
(See Figure 1100-6.)
Fig. 1100-7 Opening Gauge

Opening Gauge. The measured quantity in a tank
before a transfer (delivery or receipt). (See
Figure 1100-7.)
Fig. 1100-8 Closing Gauge

Closing Gauge. The measured quantity in a tank
after a transfer (delivery or receipt). (See
Figure 1100-8.)

Fig. 1100-9 Suspended Sediment and Water

Suspended Sediment and Water (S&W). The
amount of sediment and water which is emulsified
or suspended in the oil or product, also referred to
as base sediment and water (BS&W). (See
Figure 1100-9.)
Fig. 1100-10 Free Water

Free Water. The amount of free water measured in
the bottom of a tank. (See Figure 1100-10.)

Gauge Tape. A graduated steel tape with raised numerals. The tape is graduated and etched, typically
in 1/8 inch, 1mm, or 2mm increments. Generally speaking, it should be accurate, when comparing with
a master tape, to 1/8 inch per 100 feet, or to 3 mm per 30 m tape.
The zero of the combined gauge tape and innage gauge bob should be at the bottom face of the gauge
bob. When used with an extension ullage bob, the zero should be at the zero mark of the bob. (See
Figure 1100-11.)
Fig. 1100-11 Gauge Tape

Gauge Bob and Bar. A graduated cylindrical, square or rectangular weight designed to carry the tape
through the liquid being gauged. An innage bob is pointed at its base to facilitate penetration. It is grad-
uated to 1/8 inch with zero at the tip of the bob; it is 6, 12 or 18 inches in length and is designed to be
numerically consecutive when attached to an innage tape. A “heavy duty” version is available for use
when gauging waxy crude oil or heavy fuel. (See Figure 1100-12.)
Fig. 1100-12 Gauge Bob and Bar
Fig. 1100-13 Extension Outage Bob

Extension Outage Bob (Ullage Rule). This bob,
12 inches in length, is intended to be used with the
innage tape. The bottom of the rod is squared off as
only minimum penetration is required. The scale on
the side used for ullage measurement commences
midpoint of the rule and runs 0 to 6 inches to the
base. The 0 graduation of the bob is the zero of an
innage tape with bob attached. The reverse side is
scaled 0 to 12 inches from the bottom and may be
used as a “water finding rod”. The scale will be
graduated in increments of at least 1/8 inch and
etched on a black ebonite insert for ease of reading.
(See Figure 1100-13.)

Fig. 1100-14 Product Finding Paste

Product Finding Paste. A paste which when
applied to the gauge tape dissolves upon contact
with oil thereby, facilitating reading of the cut. The
use of chalk or talcum powder is not permissible
for petroleum as petroleum has a tendency to creep
on chalked or powdered tapes. (See
Figure 1100-14.)
Fig. 1100-15 Water Finding Paste

Water Finding Paste. A paste which when applied
to a bob, rule, or tape is capable of indicating the
water/product interface by a change in color at the
cut. (See Figure 1100-15.)
Fig. 1100-16 Water Cut

Water Cut. The demarcation line on a tape or bob
where water finding paste changes color. (See
Figure 1100-16.)

Pressure Lock. A device installed on top of a tank containing highly volatile product or a pressure
tank, whereby a gauge tape and bob may be lowered and withdrawn through a sealed chamber. (See
Figure 1100-17.)
Fig. 1100-17 Pressure Lock

Portable electronic gauging tape. The portable electronic gauging tape consists of a level sensing
probe and optionally an oil/water interface, and a temperature sensing. When the sensor detects the
level, it generates an audible sound. (See Figure 1100-18.)
Fig. 1100-18 Portable Electronic Gauging Tape


Equipment
All gauging operations should be carried out only by using approved and calibrated
equipment in good condition.
Bobs should be disconnected from tapes when not in use, otherwise damage to the
swivel hook and possibly tape kinking may occur.
The working tape and bob should be checked for accuracy with the following proce-
dures:
1. New tapes should be inspected prior to use throughout their entire length to
determine that the numerals and increments between the numerals have been
placed on the tape correctly.
2. The tape and bob assembly should be inspected daily or prior to each use to
ensure that wear in the tape snap catch (swivel hook), bob eye, or bob tip does
not introduce error when reading the tape scale. The tape should also be
inspected for kinks at this time. Kinked or spliced tapes shall not be used.
3. The working tape with bob attached should be checked for accuracy when new
and at least semi-annually thereafter by comparison with a master tape that has
been certified by or is traceable to the National Institute of Standards and Tech-
nology (NIST, formerly National Bureau of Standards, or NBS). This tape
comparison may be conducted either horizontally or vertically, but must follow
the procedures described in API MPMS, Chapter 3.1A. Generally speaking,
when used for custody transfer, the working tape/master tape comparison
should be checked within 1/8 inch (3 mm) or 0.01 ft, or 0.01 percent of the
length for a 100 ft (30 meters) steel tape. Refer to API MPMS Chapter 3.1A
for more details.
Gauge Hatch
Tanks occasionally have more than one hatch through which it is possible to take
measurements. Only one hatch should be used for gauging, namely, the hatch on
which the reference gauge point has been established. This is important because the
reference gauge height may vary from one hatch to another and because the roof
may not be level. Regardless of the number of hatches, obtain opening and closing
gauges through the same hatch. It is recommended that the same gauging apparatus
(e.g. tape, thermometer) be used for both opening and closing gauges. All gauges
on floating roof tanks should be from a top platform via a slotted gauging well.
Roof Flexure
The number of people observing a gauging on a fixed roof tank should be kept to a
minimum to avoid roof flexure and its effect upon the reference height.
Settling Time
Adequate settling time should be allowed after receipt and before gauging the tank.
If the tank is equipped with a mixer, it should be turned off prior to gauging.

Water Draw-off
Water draw-off lines should be kept closed for the period between the opening and
closing gauges.
Leaks
Tanks, connecting valves, and transfer lines that leak during a transfer of liquid will
cause an over or under statement of quantity. Report any leak promptly so that the
conditions can be corrected.
Line Contents
Before taking an opening or closing gauge, verify the displacement of the transfer
line. Make every effort to have the transfer line in the same condition of fill on both
opening and closing gauges.
Entrained Air and Foam

Sufficient time should be allowed before gauging a tank to permit the liquid to free
itself of entrained air or gas vapors. Custody transfer gauges should not be taken
until the foam has subsided from the liquid surface beneath the gauge hatch, or
until the surface of the liquid is at rest.
Floating Roofs
A floating roof will displace a determinable volume of liquid when it is in the free
floating position. The weight of the liquid displaced will be equal to the weight of
the roof and attached deadwood. Therefore, the roof weight, temperature, and the
density of the liquid must be considered when calculating the roof displacement.
The roof displacement is used to correct the tank capacity table volumes when the
liquid height in the tank is at or above the point or elevation where the roof floats
freely. When the floating roof is resting on its normal supports and the liquid is
below the lowest section of the roof, the correction for roof displacement does not
apply. The liquid is partially displaced by the roof in the “critical zone.” Computing
the tank volume in the critical zone is subject to considerable error. It is essential,
therefore, that the opening and closing gauges be taken with the roof floating
freely.1
If a floating roof tank changes service, it may be necessary to have the roof
displacement adjusted (due to change of liquid density).
Rain and snow on floating roofs may affect the measurement accuracy. Gauging
floating roof tanks during heavy rain or snow should be avoided if practical.
Tank Bottoms
Some tanks are equipped with inverted cone bottoms or bottom sumps to facilitate
free water removal. With this type of tank bottom, the free water height may not be
sufficient to reach the datum plate. In this situation, free water gauges must be
1. The roof may be resting completely on it supports and the liquid height below the roof, but this may be prohib-
ited by operating procedures or safety.

taken through a gauge hatch located over the lowest point in the tank. This is appli-
cable if the tank capacity table lists the incremental volumes, from gauge points
located below the datum plate, to be used for determination of free water volume.
If a tank has a water bottom, it should be left undisturbed during a specific opera-
tion; i.e., no water draining operation should take place during a transfer.
Consistency
The same gauging method should be used for both opening and closing gauges; i.e.
innage on both occasions or ullage on both occasions.
Recording of Gauges
All official gauges should be recorded on an official gauge ticket. Outage (ullage)
ticket should provide simple arithmetic required to arrive at the calculated innage
using outage method.
1123 Procedure
There are two basic types of procedures for obtaining gauges: innage and outage.
The innage method involves a direct measurement of the liquid level. The outage
method involves measuring the distance from the liquid surface to the reference
point on top of the tank. By subtracting this measurement from the reference
height, the innage or liquid level is arrived at.
While innage gauging is often used for clean, light and medium products, outage
gauging is often used for heavy, viscous liquid, and for tanks in which innage
gauging cannot be performed due to reasons such as debris on the datum plate.
Both methods can be used for conventional fixed roof and floating roof tanks, ship
and barge tanks, tanks equipped with a pressure lock, and tank cars.
Innage vs. Outage

In general, innage gauging is considered more accurate than outage gauging
because:
• The accuracy of outage gauging can be affected by the movement of the top
reference point. In a fixed roof tank, the effect of tank shell bulging may cause
the roof, the gauging hatch (on the roof, or on a stilling well supported by the
tank shell and roof) and the top reference point (on the gauging hatch) to move.
This movement can change the reference height. Similarly, tank bottom move-
ment (flexing) of a fixed roof tank or a floating roof tank may cause the top
reference point (on the stilling well supported by the tank bottom) to move and
thus change the reference height. Since the liquid level is calculated by
subtracting the ullage from the reference height, the accuracy of outage
gauging can be affected.
• Outage gauging uses the reference height stenciled on the tank. If the tank has
been modified and the reference height changes, the corrected reference height
may not be noted and used. Further, if an ullage tank capacity table is used, this
correction should be used to calculate the volume.

Therefore, for more accurate measurement, innage gauging is a preferred method

over outage gauging whenever practical.
Reading and Reporting Gauges

The reported gauges should be determined by the gauge readings from at least three
consecutive tank gaugings. To be valid for reporting, the three consecutive gauge
readings must fit within a span of 1/8 inch (3 mm). If two of the three consecutive
gauge readings are identical, this reading will be reported. If the gauger must use all
three gauge readings, all three must fall within the 1/8 in (3 mm) span; the three
readings should be averaged, and this average reported to the nearest 1/8 inch or
nearest millimeter. For crude oil lease tanks of 1,000 -bbl nominal capacity or less,
the span will be increased to 1/4 inch or 5 mm, and should be reported to the
nearest 1/4 inch or 1/2 centimeter.
Due to external forces, there may be some conditions under which it might be
necessary to expand the span. In such a case as this, specific company policy should
be followed.
Innage Gauging Method

1. If an automatic tank gauge is available, record the indicated level.
2. Slowly lower the bob and tape through the dedicated gauge hatch, with smooth
(ungraduated) side of the tape in contact with the rim of the gauging hatch at
the reference point. For light oil or products, apply product finding paste in the
area of anticipated liquid level cut.
3. Reel out the tape until the bob is within a short distance from the bottom of the
tank as determined by the reference height of the tank.
4. Unwind the tape slowly until the tip of the bob just touches the tank bottom or
datum plate.
5. Record the tape reading at the reference point and note any variance from the
reference height measured previously or displayed on the tank. Do not slacken
the tape.
6. Withdraw the tape quickly, read the liquid cut on the tape and record it.
7. Repeat the procedure to obtain needed valid gauge readings as described in
“Reading and Reporting Gauges” above.
Use the tank capacity table to convert the innage gauge to the corresponding tank
observed volume. See Figure 1100-19.
Innage Water Gauging Method

The method below is applicable for gauging free water and sediment in:

Fig. 1100-19 Innage Gauging Method
Gauging Tape
Gauging Hatch
Reference
Point Reading
Reference Height
Tape Cut
Liquid Level
Tank Shell
Innage
Innage Bob
Datum Plate

• Conventional fixed and floating roof tanks.

• Ship and barge tanks.
• Tank cars and tank trucks.
• Pressure tanks equipped with a suitable pressure lock device.
It is mainly used in determining the volume of free water at the tank bottom if the
water-oil demarcation is distinct enough to be dependable. See Figure 1100-20.
There are many brands of water indicating pastes that change color on contact with
free water. It has been found that although all pastes react to free water, they may
differ. This difference is caused by the adhesion of the oil to the paste which causes
some pastes to give low or spotted readings. It is recommended that all locations
determine the “best” water finding paste which gives the best cut. Try two types of
water indicating pastes for the liquid involved and select the one that worked the
best.
Also note that water indicating pastes have a limited shelf life, especially after
opening.
Consider the following to select of the appropriate tape bob:
• The recommended water gauge bar is the 12 or 18 inch round bar. If these are
not readily available, then a 6 inch bob may be used. If circumstances dictate
the use of a 6 inch bob and a water cut falls on the clasp, then the reference
gauge height should be noted and every effort made to use an alternate means
such as a 12 or 18 inch bar.
• When the height of the free water exceeds the height of the bar, the free water
can be gauged by coating the tape with water indicating paste.
• A square bob or bar is not recommend because the corners on the bob may
cause dips and slants to occur on the paste, thus giving false readings.
The innage water gauging method is outlined as follows:
1. Apply water finding paste evenly to either the bob, the extension bob or the
tape depending upon the anticipated height of free water.
2. Maintaining tape contact with gauge hatch, lower the bob and tape slowly until
it just touches the tank bottom or datum plate.
3. Check reference point tape reading versus tank reference height to ensure the
bob is just touching the bottom.

Fig. 1100-20 Innage Water Gauging Method
Gauging Tape
Gauging Hatch
Reference
point
Liquid Level
Bob coated
with paste
Water cut
Water Innage

4. Maintain bob and tape for sufficient time to allow any water present to react
with the paste1. To avoid a false reading do not relax tape or bob.
5. Withdraw the bob and tape and read water cut2. Record this figure as the tank
water cut. If paste is “spotted” above the cut line, record the level to which
paste is spotted, indicating that an emulsion is present above the interface3.
6. Repeat the operation until two identical readings are obtained.
Notes
• It should be clearly understood that the 12" extension ullage rule can only be
used with an innage tape for ullage determination and water finding. It should
only be used for water finding when a water level between 0 and 12" is antici-
pated. No reading of any tape above 12" is possible, as the rod is not consecu-
tively compatible. Heavy weight cylindrical water finding bars of varying
length are available for use in viscous products.
• All gauge entries should be made by the gauger on an official gauge ticket.
Outage Gauging Method

Two methods are available. The procedure for the first method is as follows:
1. Record the level from an automatic tank gauge (ATG) if available, using the
level by the ATG to estimate the depth to lower the tape and bob. Lower the
tape and bob into the tank, until the bob just breaks the surface of the liquid.
2. Ensure the bob is not swinging, and lower it slowly into the liquid a further 2-3
inches until an even inch graduation mark on the tape is carefully aligned with
the reference mark on the gauge hatch.
3. Record the reading of the tape at the reference point.
4. Withdraw the tape and bob from the tank and read the outage bob scale at the
liquid cut. Record the reading. Care must be taken during the withdrawal proce-
dure to ensure that the tape and bob are not allowed to re-enter the liquid
1. Normal reaction times are:

• Light hydrocarbons, gasoline, naphtha, kerosene: 5 to 10 seconds
• Medium hydrocarbons, mid-distillates, light/medium fuel: 20 to 30 seconds
• Heavy hydrocarbons, heavy fuel oils, lube oil, crude oil: 60+ seconds.
It may be necessary to extend these times depending upon the liquid being gauged and the type of paste being
used.
2. The water cut may be determined by a distinct change of color in the paste or by the complete disappearance of
the paste where water has been in contact with it.
When water gauging more viscous products it may be necessary to carefully wash off with a solvent the oil
layer covering the water indicating paste on the bob/tape, so that the latter can be clearly read. A thin layer of
lubricating oil over the indicating paste will help preserve the paste intact while lowering tape and bob.
3. Where a large volume of free water is present, it may be preferable to use the ullage method to arrive at the
water level. This method is described later.

thereby giving a false reading. If a deep-grooved bob is used, read the bob
scale at the uppermost groove in which liquid is retained.
5. Add the bob reading to the observed tape reading and record the sum of the
two as the outage. For example:
Feet Inches Meters
Tape reading at reference gauge point 10 6 3.200
Outage bob reading at cut 0 2-15/16 0.075
Sum (Outage Gauge) 10 8-15/16 3.275
6. Subtract the outage figure from the tank reference height and record this figure
as the innage. For example:
Feet Inches Meters
Reference gauge height 44 5-7/8 13.560
Outage Gauge -10 8-15/16 -3.275
Difference (Innage Gauge) 33 8-15/16 10.285
Note If an innage gauge tape and innage bob are used, the outage gauge can be
determined as shown in the following example. Subtract the bob reading from the
tape reading at the reference point to calculate the outage. See Figure 1100-21.
Feet Inches Meters
Innage tape reading at reference gauge point 10 6 3.200
Innage bob reading -0 2- 15/16 -0.075
Difference (Outage) 10 3- 1/16 3.125
Alternate Outage Method

This alternate method uses an innage tape and bob to initially determine an approxi-
mate innage in whole feet. The amount of liquid above the approximate innage is
then gauged and the exact innage obtained by adding this increment figure to the
previously calculated whole feet number. The method is as follows:
1. Lower the tape and bob into the liquid until the bob is completely submerged.
2. Continue lowering the tape and bob until the inch and fraction on the tape
agrees with the reference height inch and fraction. (Inch and fraction only, not
whole feet.)
3. Subtract the gauge hatch tape reading from the reference height.
4. Record the difference as the “whole feet” innage.
5. Withdraw the tape and bob and record the incremental reading on the bottom
of the tape.

Fig. 1100-21 Outage Gauging Method (Shown as Using an Outage Bob)
Gauging Tape
Reference Gauging Hatch

Point Reading
Reference Height
Ullage
Bob Cut
Liquid Level
Tank
Shell

6. Add the tape reading to the “whole feet” number. The result equals the innage.
An example is provided in Figure 1100-22.
Fig. 1100-22 Outage Gauging Method - Alternate Method

Outage Water Gauging Method

Where large volumes of water are known to be present, e.g., in refinery ballast
tanks, it may be preferable to use the ullage for water with an innage tape and exten-
sion outage bar as described previously.
The major difficulty in applying this method is establishing the approximate depth
of the interface before the official water finding operation can be initiated. This
approximate depth may be established by:
• A knowledge of the tank's previous status.
• Use of sample taps where they exist.
• Use of sonic gauging devices.
• Trial and error.
The outage water gauging method is as follows:
1. Apply a thin coating of water indicating paste evenly to the “minus” area of the
ullage rule.
2. Lower the rule and tape through the oil to the “approximate depth” of the inter-
face. Stop the tape on an even inch graduation.
3. Take the tape reading at the reference point and record.
4. Hold the tape steady at this position for 30 seconds.
5. Withdraw the tape, read and record the water cut.
6. Add the observed tape reading and the water cut reading. This is the water
ullage reading.
7. Subtract the water ullage reading from the tank reference height.
8. Record the resultant figure as the water innage.
9. Repeat the operation until two identical readings are obtained.
See Figure 1100-23.

Fig. 1100-23 Outage Water Gauging Method

1130 Temperature Determination

Cup-Case Thermometer Assembly. The assembly may be made of either
varnished hardwood or non-sparking, corrosion-resistant material. It must have a
cup with a capacity of at least 6.1 cubic inches (100 ml) and with dimensions such
that the side of the bulb will be at least 3/8 inch (9.5 mm) from the nearest wall; and
the bottom of the bulb will be 1± 3/16 inches (25.4 mm ± 5 mm) above the bottom
of the cup. See Figure 1100-24.
Armored Case Assembly. The assembly should be made of non-sparking, corro-
sion-resistant tubing that does not exceed 0.5 inch (13 mm) in outside diameter.
Armored case assemblies are usually used in pressure tank cars and trucks. See
Figure 1100-25.
Fig. 1100-24 Cup-Case Thermometer Assembly Fig. 1100-25 Armored Case Assembly

Angle-Stem Thermometer. The thermometer is installed in a standard metal-sepa-

rable well (“thermowell”) or socket in a tank. For vertical tanks with capacities
greater than 5,000 bbls, the glass stem of the thermometer should be at least 3 feet
(914.4 mm) long, excluding the graduated portion. For storage tanks with capacities
less than 5,000 bbls, the stem may be 12 inch (304.8 mm) long, excluding the grad-
uated portion. See Figure 1100-26.
Thermometers. Tank thermometers should be made in accordance with the specifi-
cation in ASTM E-1. Thermometers shown in Figure 1100-27 should be used.
Fig. 1100-26 Angle Stem Thermometer
Fig. 1100-27 Specifications for Tank Thermometers

Name ASTM Thermometer Range Length (inches) Graduation Accuracy
ASTM tank 50F-80 -30°F to +120°F 12 1°F ± 0.5°F
ASTM tank 97F-80 0°F to +120°F 12 1°F ± 0.5°F
Angle-stem - Suitable range 12 1°F ± 1.0°F
Tank thermometer - 20°F to +220°F 12 1°F ± 0.5°F
Notes: 1. Except for the angle-stem thermometer, all of the thermometers listed in this figure are the total-immersion type.
2. The length for the angle-stem refers to the graduated portion.
Thermometer Wells. These are also referred to as “thermowells.” A thermowell is

an enclosed socket or small bore pipe extending into the tank to allow the thermom-
eter to be removed without interrupting tank service.
Average Tank Temperature. If two or more readings are taken in a tank, the
temperatures should be averaged, and reported as the temperature for the entire
volume of liquid.

Portable Electronic Thermometer (PET). The PET consists of a temperature

sensing probe and an electronic readout device, which displays the temperature in
digital format, and may contain various features such as error checking and temper-
ature averaging. See Figure 1100-28. The specification, as described in API MPMS
Chapter 7.3, is shown in Figure 1100-29.
Fig. 1100-28 Typical Portable Electronic Thermometers
Fig. 1100-29 Portable Electronic Thermometer Specifications

Minimum Graduation Accuracy Range of Accuracy Required
0.1°F ± 0.5°F 0 - 200°F
± 0.6°F > 200°F
0.1°C ± 0.2°C 0- 100°C
± 0.4°C > 100°C
Notes: 1. The specifications in this figure represent minimum acceptable accuracy for PETs used for custody transfer. PETs with better
accuracy are available and may be specified by mutual agreement.
2. The PET shall maintain the specified accuracy and its display shall be readable over the ambient temperature range expected at
the location of use.


Minimum Number of Temperature Measurements for Various Depths. The
minimum number of temperature measurements for various depths of hydrocarbon
liquid in storage, lease, ship, and barge tanks is shown in Figure 1100-30. This
applies to both cup-case and electronic thermometers.
Fig. 1100-30 Minimum Number of Temperature Measurements for Various Depths of Hydrocarbon Liquid in Storage,
Lease, Ship, and Barge Tanks
Minimum Number of Temperature
Depth of Liquid Measurements Measurement Levels
> 10 feet (3.05 meters) 3 Center of upper, middle and
lower thirds
≤ 10 feet (3.05 meters) 1 Center of liquid
Notes: 1. For tanks with capacities less than 5,000 bbls, one temperature measurement at the middle of the liquid can be used.
2. If the temperature in a tank varies by more than 5 °F (3 °C) at various depths, more temperature measurements should be taken
at different levels that are evenly spaced apart, averaging the readings. Round off the result to the nearest 1.0 °F (0.5 °C) and
report it as the average tank temperature. A volume-weighted temperature may be used for tanks with non-uniform cross-
sectional area
Minimum Immersion Times. The minimum immersion times depend on the type
of thermometer, the procedure (in motion or leaving the thermometer stationary),
the density (or API gravity) of the liquid, and the temperature differential (between
the liquid and ambient see Figure 1100-31).
If the temperature difference between ambient and the liquid is less than 5°F (3°C),
Figure 1100-32 should be followed.
Refer to API MPMS Chapter 7.1
If a PET is used, immersion must be continued until reading stability is reached.
With a moving probe, the PET may be considered to have reached stability if the
readout varies by not more than 0.2°F (0.1°C) for 30 seconds. Typical immersion
times are shown in Figure 1100-33.
Fig. 1100-31 Recommended Immersion Time for Woodback Cup-Case Thermometers

API Gravity Recommended Immersion Time in Minutes
@ 60°F In-Motion Stationary
>50 5 10
40 to 49 5 15
30 to 39 12 25
20 to 29 20 45
< 20 45 80
Note: “In Motion” means raising and lowering the thermometer 1 foot (0.3 meter) above the desired depth.

Fig. 1100-32 Recommended Immersion Time for Woodback Cup-Case Thermometers When
Temperature Differential is Less Than 5°F
API Gravity Recommended Immersion Time in Minutes
>50 5 10
40 to 49 5 15
30 to 39 12 20
20 to 29 20 35
< 20 35 60
Fig. 1100-33 Recommended Immersion Time for Portable Electronic Thermometers

API Gravity Recommended Immersion Time
> 40 30 seconds 5 minutes
20 to 40 45 seconds 30 minutes
< 20 75 seconds 30 minutes
Selection of a Thermometer. The use of a PET is recommended over Cup Case

because:
• The measurement by a PET can be taken with the sensing probe in the liquid,
while the cup-case thermometer must be raised to the tank top. This may make
cup case readings biased toward atmospheric temperature due to ambient condi-
tions including wind effect.
• PETs offer better resolution and accuracy.
• PETs require shorter immersion time.
The thermometer chosen must meet the specifications described in Figure 1100-27
or Figure 1100-29, as applicable.
Verification
1. Bench Inspection
Before initial use and at least once a year after its initial use, each thermometer
should be compared to a thermometer certified by NIST or an equivalent ther-
mometer of traceable accuracy. The comparison should be made at three or
more temperatures to ensure that the thermometer is accurate within its speci-
fied limits. One of the check points should be in the temperature range in
which the thermometer is expected to be used.
2. Field Inspection
Cup-Case (mercury-in-glass type) - Before each use, the thermometer should
be checked for breakage and separation of the mercury column
(Figure 1100-34), heavy oil coatings remaining on the thermometer which may

form an insulating film, and/or loss of a substantial amount of pigment from

the engraved scale making it difficult to read.
PET - Before each use, or once per day (whichever is less frequent), spot check
by comparing the PET reading against an ASTM glass stem thermometer in
liquid. If the readings differ by more than 1 °F (0.5 °C), the portable electronic
thermometer should be re-standardized before it is used for custody transfer.
On a monthly schedule, the PET should be checked at two or more tempera-
tures near the ends of its range against an NIST certified thermometer or an
equivalent thermometer with accuracy traceable to the NIST.
Operating guidelines specific to tank cars, tank trucks, and marine vessels including
pressure tanks will be provided in the sections for those storage vessels.

Fig. 1100-34 Effect of Using Thermometer with Separated Mercury Column

1133 Procedure
Reading and Reporting Temperatures or Average Temperatures.
• Cup-Case, Armored Thermometers - Temperatures should be read and reported
to the nearest 1°F (0.5°C), or less if all parties involved agree and if this does
not conflict with legal requirements.
• PETs - All temperatures should be read and recorded to the nearest 0.1°F or
0.1°C. The temperature should be reported to the nearest 1°F or 0.5°C. Temper-
atures may be reported in units less than whole degrees by mutual agreement,
provided that this does not conflict with legal requirements.
Method.
1. Pre-determine the level of the liquid in tank.
2. Determine number of temperature measurements and locations (depths) in
accordance with Figure 1100-30.
3. Lower thermometer through the gauge hatch to a predetermined location.
Immerse the thermometer for the applicable time from Figures 1100-31 to
1100-33.
4. Read (or, if a cup-case or armored assembly is used, withdraw the thermometer
to tank top and quickly read) and record the temperature and the level at which
the temperature was taken. (Figure 1100-35 and Figure 1100-36).
5. Repeat the procedure to take the temperatures at other levels as required.
6. Calculate the average tank temperature.
The average tank temperature of liquid is required to calculate its volume at a stan-
dard temperature.
Procedures and methods specific to tank cars, tank trucks, and marine vessels
including pressure tanks will be supplemented in the sections for those storage
vessels.

Fig. 1100-35 Temperature Determination - PET Method

Fig. 1100-36 Temperature Determination - Cup-case Thermometer Method

1100 Manual Tank Gauging

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1100 Manual Tank Gauging

1110 General 1100-2

Chevron Corporation 1100-1 November 1997

November 1997 1100-2 Chevron Corporation

Chevron Corporation 1100-3 November 1997

1120 Tank Gauging for Liquid Level

1121 Terminology and Equipment

Fig. 1100-2 Reference Height

November 1997 1100-4 Chevron Corporation

Fig. 1100-3 Datum Plate

Fig. 1100-4 Cut

Fig. 1100-5 Innage Gauge

Chevron Corporation 1100-5 November 1997

Fig. 1100-6 Outage Gauge

Fig. 1100-7 Opening Gauge

Fig. 1100-8 Closing Gauge

November 1997 1100-6 Chevron Corporation

Fig. 1100-9 Suspended Sediment and Water

Fig. 1100-10 Free Water

Chevron Corporation 1100-7 November 1997

November 1997 1100-8 Chevron Corporation

Fig. 1100-13 Extension Outage Bob

Chevron Corporation 1100-9 November 1997

Fig. 1100-14 Product Finding Paste

Fig. 1100-15 Water Finding Paste

Fig. 1100-16 Water Cut

November 1997 1100-10 Chevron Corporation

Chevron Corporation 1100-11 November 1997

November 1997 1100-12 Chevron Corporation

1122 Operating Guidelines

Chevron Corporation 1100-13 November 1997

Entrained Air and Foam

November 1997 1100-14 Chevron Corporation

Innage vs. Outage

Chevron Corporation 1100-15 November 1997

Therefore, for more accurate measurement, innage gauging is a preferred method

Reading and Reporting Gauges

Innage Gauging Method

Innage Water Gauging Method

November 1997 1100-16 Chevron Corporation

Fig. 1100-19 Innage Gauging Method

Chevron Corporation 1100-17 November 1997

• Conventional fixed and floating roof tanks.

November 1997 1100-18 Chevron Corporation

Fig. 1100-20 Innage Water Gauging Method

Chevron Corporation 1100-19 November 1997

Outage Gauging Method

1. Normal reaction times are:

November 1997 1100-20 Chevron Corporation

Alternate Outage Method

Chevron Corporation 1100-21 November 1997

Fig. 1100-21 Outage Gauging Method (Shown as Using an Outage Bob)

Reference Gauging Hatch

November 1997 1100-22 Chevron Corporation

Fig. 1100-22 Outage Gauging Method - Alternate Method

Chevron Corporation 1100-23 November 1997

Outage Water Gauging Method

November 1997 1100-24 Chevron Corporation