Designation: D323 − 15a

Standard Test Method for

Vapor Pressure of Petroleum Products (Reid Method)1
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D323; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
This standard has been approved for use by agencies of the U.S. Department of Defense.

1. Scope* 1.8 This standard does not purport to address all of the
1.1 This test method covers procedures for the determina- safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
tion of vapor pressure (see Note 1) of gasoline, volatile crude responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
oil, and other volatile petroleum products. priate safety and health practices and determine the applica-
bility of regulatory limitations prior to use. Specific warning
1.2 Procedure A is applicable to gasoline and other petro- statements are given in Sections 7 and 18, and 12.5.3, 15.5,
leum products with a vapor pressure of less than 180 kPa 21.2, A1.1.2, A1.1.6, and A2.3.
(26 psi).
1.3 Procedure B may also be applicable to these other 2. Referenced Documents
materials, but only gasoline was included in the interlaboratory 2.1 ASTM Standards:2
test program to determine the precision of this test method. D1267 Test Method for Gage Vapor Pressure of Liquefied
1.4 Procedure C is for materials with a vapor pressure of Petroleum (LP) Gases (LP-Gas Method)
greater than 180 kPa (26 psi). D4057 Practice for Manual Sampling of Petroleum and
Petroleum Products
1.5 Procedure D for aviation gasoline with a vapor pressure D4175 Terminology Relating to Petroleum, Petroleum
of approximately 50 kPa (7 psi). Products, and Lubricants
NOTE 1—Because the external atmospheric pressure is counteracted by
D4953 Test Method for Vapor Pressure of Gasoline and
the atmospheric pressure initially present in the vapor chamber, the Reid
vapor pressure is an absolute pressure at 37.8 °C (100 °F) in kilopascals Gasoline-Oxygenate Blends (Dry Method)
(pounds-force per square inch). The Reid vapor pressure differs from the D6377 Test Method for Determination of Vapor Pressure of
true vapor pressure of the sample due to some small sample vaporization Crude Oil: VPCRx (Expansion Method)
and the presence of water vapor and air in the confined space. D6897 Test Method for Vapor Pressure of Liquefied Petro-
1.6 This test method is not applicable to liquefied petroleum leum Gases (LPG) (Expansion Method)
gases or fuels containing oxygenated compounds other than E1 Specification for ASTM Liquid-in-Glass Thermometers
methyl t-butyl ether (MTBE). For determination of the vapor E2251 Specification for Liquid-in-Glass ASTM Thermom-
pressure of liquefied petroleum gases, refer to Test Method eters with Low-Hazard Precision Liquids
D1267 or Test Method D6897. For determination of the vapor 2.2 Energy Institute Standards:
pressure of gasoline-oxygenate blends, refer to Test Method IP 481 Test Method for Determination of the Air Saturated
D4953. The precision for crude oil has not been determined Vapour Pressure (ASVP) of Crude Oil3
since the early 1950s (see Note 3). Test Method D6377 has
been approved as a method for determination of vapor pressure 3. Terminology
of crude oil. IP 481 is a test method for determination of the
3.1 Definitions:
air-saturated vapor pressure of crude oil.
3.1.1 Bourdon spring gauge, n—pressure measuring device
1.7 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the that employs a Bourdon tube connected to an indicator.
standard. The values given in parentheses are for information 3.1.2 Bourdon tube, n—flattened metal tube bent to a curve
only. that straightens under internal pressure.

1 2
This test method is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D02 on For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
Petroleum Products, Liquid Fuels, and Lubricants and is the direct responsibility of contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM
Subcommittee D02.08 on Volatility. Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
Current edition approved June 1, 2015. Published June 2015. Originally the ASTM website.
3
approved in 1930. Last previous edition approved in 2015 as D323 – 15. DOI: Available from Energy Institute, 61 New Cavendish St., London, WIG 7AR,
10.1520/D0323-15A. U.K., http://www.energyinst.org.uk.

*A Summary of Changes section appears at the end of this standard

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 D323 − 15a
3.1.3 oxygenate, n—oxygen-containing ashless organic following list emphasizes the importance of strict adherence to
compound, such as an alcohol or ether, which may be used as the precautions given in the procedure:
a fuel or fuel supplement. D4175 7.1.1 Checking the Pressure Gauge—Check all gauges
3.1.4 Reid vapor pressure (RVP), n—resultant total pressure against a pressure measuring device (see A1.6) after each test
reading, corrected for measuring error, of a specific empirical to ensure higher precision of results (see 12.4). Read the gauge
test method (Test Method D323) for measuring the vapor while in a vertical position and after tapping it lightly.
pressure of gasoline and other volatile products. 7.1.2 Checking for Leaks—Check all apparatus before and
during each test for both liquid and vapor leaks (see Note 5).
3.1.5 vapor pressure, n—pressure exerted by the vapor of a
7.1.3 Sampling—Because initial sampling and the handling
liquid when in equilibrium with the liquid. D4175
of samples will greatly affect the final results, employ the
3.2 Abbreviations: utmost precaution and the most meticulous care to avoid losses
3.2.1 ASVP, n—air saturated vapor pressure. through evaporation and even slight changes in composition
3.2.2 LPG, n—liquefied petroleum gases. (see Section 8 and 12.1). In no case shall any part of the Reid
3.2.3 MTBE, n—methyl t-butyl ether. apparatus itself be used as the sample container prior to
actually conducting the test.
3.2.4 RVP, n—Reid Vapor Pressure. 7.1.4 Purging the Apparatus—Thoroughly purge the pres-
4. Summary of Test Method sure gauge, the liquid chamber, and the vapor chamber to be
sure that they are free of residual sample. This is most
4.1 The liquid chamber of the vapor pressure apparatus is conveniently done at the end of the test in preparation for the
filled with the chilled sample and connected to the vapor next test (see 12.5 and 15.5).
chamber that has been heated to 37.8 °C (100 °F) in a bath. The 7.1.5 Coupling the Apparatus—Carefully observe the re-
assembled apparatus is immersed in a bath at 37.8 °C (100 °F) quirements of 12.2.
until a constant pressure is observed. The reading, suitably 7.1.6 Shaking the Apparatus—Shake the apparatus vigor-
corrected, is reported as the Reid vapor pressure. ously as directed to ensure equilibrium.
4.2 All four procedures utilize liquid and vapor chambers of
the same internal volume. Procedure B utilizes a semiauto- 8. Sampling
matic apparatus immersed in a horizontal bath and rotated 8.1 The extreme sensitivity of vapor pressure measurements
while attaining equilibrium. Either a Bourdon gauge or pres- to losses through evaporation and the resulting changes in
sure transducer may be used with this procedure. Procedure C composition is such as to require the utmost precaution and the
utilizes a liquid chamber with two valved openings. Procedure most meticulous care in the handling of samples. The provi-
D requires more stringent limits on the ratio of the liquid and sions of this section shall apply to all samples for vapor
vapor chambers. pressure determinations, except as specifically excluded for
5. Significance and Use samples having vapor pressures above 180 kPa (26 psi); see
Section 19.
5.1 Vapor pressure is an important physical property of
volatile liquids. This test method is used to determine the vapor 8.2 Sampling shall be done in accordance with Practice
pressure at 37.8 °C (100 °F) of petroleum products and crude D4057.
oils with initial boiling point above 0 °C (32 °F). 8.3 Sample Container Size—The size of the sample con-
5.2 Vapor pressure is critically important for both automo- tainer from which the vapor pressure sample is taken shall be
tive and aviation gasolines, affecting starting, warm-up, and 1 L (1 qt). It shall be 70 % to 80 % filled with sample.
tendency to vapor lock with high operating temperatures or 8.3.1 The present precision statement has been derived
high altitudes. Maximum vapor pressure limits for gasoline are using samples in 1 L (1 qt) containers. However, samples taken
legally mandated in some areas as a measure of air pollution in containers of other sizes as prescribed in Practice D4057 can
control. be used if it is recognized that the precision could be affected.
In the case of referee testing, the 1 L (1 qt) sample container
5.3 Vapor pressure of crude oils is of importance to the
shall be mandatory.
crude producer and the refiner for general handling and initial
refinery treatment. 8.4 The Reid vapor pressure determination shall be per-
formed on the first test specimen withdrawn from the sample
5.4 Vapor pressure is also used as an indirect measure of the
container. The remaining sample in the container cannot be
evaporation rate of volatile petroleum solvents.
used for a second vapor pressure determination. If necessary,
6. Apparatus obtain a new sample.
6.1 The required apparatus for Procedures A, C, and D is 8.4.1 Protect samples from excessive heat prior to testing.
described in Annex A1. Apparatus for Procedure B is described 8.4.2 Do not test samples in leaky containers. They should
in Annex A2. be discarded and new samples obtained.
8.5 Sampling Handling Temperature—In all cases, cool the
7. Hazards sample container and contents to 0 °C to 1 °C (32 °F to 34 °F)
7.1 Gross errors can be obtained in vapor pressure measure- before the container is opened. Sufficient time to reach this
ments if the prescribed procedure is not followed carefully. The temperature shall be ensured by direct measurement of the
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 D323 − 15a
temperature of a similar liquid in a like container placed in the PROCEDURE A
cooling bath at the same time as the sample.
FOR PETROLEUM PRODUCTS HAVING REID
9. Report VAPOR PRESSURES BELOW 180 kPa (26 psi)
9.1 Report the result observed in 12.4 or 15.4, after correct- 11. Preparation for Test
ing for any difference between the gauge and the pressure
measuring device (see A1.6), to the nearest 0.25 kPa (0.05 psi) 11.1 Verification of Sample Container Filling—With the
as the Reid vapor pressure. sample at a temperature of 0 °C to 1°C, take the container from
the cooling bath or refrigerator and wipe dry with absorbent
10. Precison and Bias material. If the container is not transparent, unseal it, and using
a suitable gauge, confirm that the sample volume equals 70 %
10.1 The following criteria are to be used for judging the
to 80 % of the container capacity (see Note 4). If the sample is
acceptability of results (95 % confidence):
contained in a transparent glass container, verify that the
10.1.1 Repeatability—The difference between successive
container is 70 % to 80 % full by suitable means (see Note 4).
test results obtained by the same operator with the same
apparatus under constant operating conditions on identical test NOTE 4—For nontransparent containers, one way to confirm that the
material would, in the long run, in the normal and correct sample volume equals 70 % to 80 % of the container capacity is to use a
dipstick that has been pre-marked to indicate the 70 % and 80 % container
operation of the test method, exceed the following value only capacities. The dipstick should be of such material that it shows wetting
in one case in twenty. after being immersed and withdrawn from the sample. To confirm the
Range Repeatability sample volume, insert the dipstick into the sample container so that it
Procedure kPa psi kPa psi touches the bottom of the container at a perpendicular angle, before
A Gasoline 35–100 5–15 3.2 0.46 Note 2 removing the dipstick. For transparent containers, using a marked ruler or
B Gasoline 35–100 5–15 1.2 0.17 Note 2 by comparing the sample container to a like container that has the 70 %
A 0–35 0–5 0.7 0.10 Note 3 and 80 % levels clearly marked, has been found suitable.
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A 110–180 16–26 2.1 0.3 Note 3

C >180 >26 2.8 0.4 Note 3 11.1.1 Discard the sample if its volume is less than 70 % of
D Aviation the container capacity.
Gasoline 50 7 0.7 0.1 Note 3
11.1.2 If the container is more than 80 % full, pour out
10.1.2 Reproducibility—The difference between two, single enough sample to bring the container contents within the 70 %
and independent results, obtained by different operators work- to 80 % range. Under no circumstances shall any sample
ing in different laboratories on identical test material would, in poured out be returned to the container.
the long run, in the normal and correct operation of the test 11.1.3 Reseal the container, if necessary, and return the
method, exceed the following value only in one case in twenty. sample container to the cooling bath.
Range Reproducibility
Procedure kPa psi kPa psi 11.2 Air Saturation of Sample in Sample Container:
A Gasoline 35–100 5–15 5.2 0.75 Note 2 11.2.1 Nontransparent Containers—With the sample again
B Gasoline 35–100 5–15 4.5 0.66 Note 2 at a temperature between 0 °C and 1 °C, take the container
A 0–35 0–5 2.4 0.35 Note 3
A 110–180 16–26 2.8 0.4 Note 3 from the cooling bath, wipe it dry with an absorbent material,
C >180 >26 4.9 0.7 Note 3 remove the cap momentarily taking care that no water enters,
D Aviation reseal, and shake vigorously. Return it to the cooling bath for
Gasoline 50 7 1.0 0.15 Note 3
a minimum of 2 min.
NOTE 2—These precision values are derived from a 1987 cooperative 11.2.2 Transparent Containers—Since 11.1 does not require
program4 and the current Committee D02 Statistical Method RR:D02-
1007.
that the sample container be opened to verify the sample
NOTE 3—These precision values were developed in the early 1950’s, capacity, it is necessary to unseal the cap momentarily before
prior to the current statistical evaluation method. resealing it so that samples in transparent containers are treated
10.2 Bias: the same as samples in nontransparent containers. After per-
10.2.1 Absolute Bias—Since there is no accepted reference forming this task, proceed with 11.2.1.
material suitable for determining the bias for this test method, 11.2.3 Repeat 11.2.1 twice more. Return the sample to the
bias cannot be determined. The amount of bias between this bath until the beginning of the procedure.
test vapor pressure and true vapor pressure is unknown. 11.3 Preparation of Liquid Chamber—Completely immerse
10.2.2 Relative Bias—There is no statistically significant the open liquid chamber in an upright position and the sample
bias between Procedures A and B for gasolines as determined transfer connection (see Fig. A1.2) in a bath at a temperature
in the last cooperative test program. between 0 °C and 1 °C (32 °F and 34 °F) for at least 10 min.
11.4 Preparation of Vapor Chamber—After purging and
4
Supporting data have been filed at ASTM International Headquarters and may rinsing the vapor chamber and pressure gauge in accordance
be obtained by requesting Research Report RR:D02-1245. with 12.5, connect the gauge to the vapor chamber. Immerse

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 D323 − 15a
the vapor chamber to at least 25.4 mm (1 in.) above its top in NOTE 5—Liquid leaks are more difficult to detect than vapor leaks. Pay
the water bath maintained at 37.8 °C 6 0.1 °C (100 °F 6 particular attention to the coupling between the chambers, which is
normally in the liquid section of the apparatus.
0.2 °F) for not less than 10 min just prior to coupling it to the
liquid chamber. Do not remove the vapor chamber from the 12.4 Measurement of Vapor Pressure—After the assembled
bath until the liquid chamber has been filled with sample, as apparatus has been in the water bath for at least 5 min, tap the
described in 12.1. pressure gauge lightly and observe the reading. Withdraw the
apparatus from the bath and repeat the instructions of 12.3. At
12. Procedure intervals of not less than 2 min, tap the gauge, observe the
12.1 Sample Transfer—Remove the sample from the cool- reading, and repeat 12.3 until a total of not less than five
ing bath, uncap, and insert the chilled transfer tube (see Fig. 1). shakings and gauge readings have been made. Continue this
Remove the liquid chamber from the cooling bath, and place procedure, as necessary, until the last two consecutive gauge
the chamber in an inverted position over the top of the transfer readings are the same, indicating that equilibrium has been
tube. Invert the entire system rapidly so that the liquid chamber attained. Read the final gauge pressure to the nearest 0.25 kPa
is upright with the end of the transfer tube approximately 6 mm (0.05 psi) and record this value as the uncorrected vapor
(0.25 in.) from the bottom of the liquid chamber. Fill the pressure of the sample. Without undue delay, remove the
chamber to overflowing (in addition to other precautions, make pressure gauge from the apparatus (see Note 6) without
provision for suitable containment and disposal of the over- attempting to remove any liquid that may be trapped in the
flowing sample to avoid fire hazard). Withdraw the transfer gauge, check its reading against that of the pressure measuring
tube from the liquid chamber while allowing the sample to device (see A1.6) while both are subjected to a common steady
continue flowing up to complete withdrawal. pressure that is within 1.0 kPa (0.2 psi) of the recorded
uncorrected vapor pressure. If a difference is observed between
12.2 Assembly of Apparatus—Immediately remove the va- the pressure measuring device and the pressure gauge readings,
por chamber from the water bath and couple the filled liquid the difference is added to the uncorrected vapor pressure when
chamber to the vapor chamber as quickly as possible without the pressure measuring device reading is higher, or subtracted
spillage. When the vapor chamber is removed from the water from the uncorrected vapor pressure when the pressure mea-
bath, connect it to the liquid chamber without undue movement suring device reading is lower, and the resulting value recorded
that could promote exchange of room temperature air with the as the Reid vapor pressure of the sample.
37.8 °C (100 °F) air in the chamber. Not more than 10 s shall
elapse between removing the vapor chamber from the water NOTE 6—Cooling the assembly prior to disconnecting the gauge will
bath and completion of the coupling of the two chambers. facilitate disassembly and reduce the amount of hydrocarbon vapors
released into the room.
12.3 Introduction of the Apparatus into Bath—Turn the
assembled apparatus upside down and allow all the sample in 12.5 Preparation of Apparatus for Next Test:
the liquid chamber to drain into the vapor chamber. With the 12.5.1 Thoroughly purge the vapor chamber of residual
apparatus still inverted, shake it vigorously eight times up and sample by filling it with warm water above 32 °C (90 °F) and
down. With the gauge end up, immerse the assembled appara- allowing it to drain. Repeat this purging at least five times.
tus in the bath, maintained at 37.8 °C 6 0.1 °C (100 °F 6 Purge the liquid chamber in the same manner. Rinse both
0.2 °F), in an inclined position so that the connection of the chambers and the transfer tube several times with petroleum
liquid and vapor chambers is below the water level and naphtha, then several times with acetone, then blow dry using
carefully examine for leaks (see Note 5). If no leaks are dried air. Place the liquid chamber in the cooling bath or
observed, further immerse the apparatus to at least 25 mm refrigerator in preparation for the next test.

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(1 in.) above the top of the vapor chamber. Observe the 12.5.2 If the purging of the vapor chamber is done in a bath,
apparatus for leaks throughout the test and discard the test at be sure to avoid small films of floating sample by keeping the
anytime a leak is detected. bottom and top openings of the chamber closed as they pass
through the water surface.
12.5.3 Preparation of Gauge—Disconnect the gauge from
its manifold connection with the pressure measuring device
and remove trapped liquid in the Bourdon tube of the gauge by
repeated centrifugal thrusts. This is accomplished in the
following manner: hold the gauge between the palms of the
hands with the right palm on the face of the gauge and the
threaded connection of the gauge forward. Extend the arms
forward and upward at an angle of 45°. Swing the arms rapidly
downward through an arc of about 135° so that centrifugal
force aids gravity in removing trapped liquid. Repeat this
operation at least three times or until all liquid has been
expelled from the gauge. Connect the gauge to the vapor
chamber with the liquid connection closed and place in the
FIG. 1 Simplified Sketches Outlining Method Transferring 37.8 °C (100 °F) bath to condition for the next test.
Sample to Liquid Chamber from Open-Type Containers (Warning—Do not leave the vapor chamber with the gauge

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 D323 − 15a
attached in the water bath for a longer period of time than should be the same.) Read the final gauge or transducer
necessary to condition for the next test. Water vapor can pressure to the nearest 0.25 kPa (0.05 psi) and record this value
condense in the Bourdon tube and lead to erroneous results.) as the uncorrected vapor pressure. Without undue delay,
disconnect the gauge from the apparatus. Connect the gauge or
PROCEDURE B pressure transducer to a pressure measuring device. Check its
FOR PETROLEUM PRODUCTS HAVING REID reading against that of the pressure measuring device while
VAPOR PRESSURES BELOW 180 kPa (26 psi), both are subjected to a common steady pressure that is within
(HORIZONTAL BATH) 1.0 kPa (0.2 psi) of the recorded uncorrected vapor pressure. If
a difference is observed between the pressure measuring device
13. Sampling and gauge or transducer readings, the difference is added to the
uncorrected vapor pressure when the pressure measuring
13.1 Refer to Section 8.
device reading is higher, or subtracted from the uncorrected
14. Preparation for Test vapor pressure when the pressure measuring device reading is
lower, and the resulting value recorded as the Reid vapor
14.1 Refer to Section 11. pressure of the sample.
15. Procedure 15.5 Preparation of Apparatus for Next Test:
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15.1 Sample Transfer— Remove the sample from the cool- 15.5.1 Thoroughly purge the vapor chamber of residual
ing bath, uncap, and insert the chilled transfer tube (see Fig. 1). sample by filling it with warm water above 32 °C (90 °F) and
Remove the liquid chamber from the cooling bath, and place allowing it to drain. Repeat this purging at least five times.
the chamber in an inverted position over the top of the transfer Purge the liquid chamber in the same manner. Rinse both
tube. Invert the entire system rapidly so that the liquid chamber chambers and the transfer tube several times with petroleum
is upright with the end of the transfer tube approximately 6 mm naphtha, then several times with acetone, then blow dry using
(0.25 in.) from the bottom of the liquid chamber. Fill the dried air. Place the liquid chamber in the cooling bath or
chamber to overflowing (in addition to other precautions, make refrigerator in preparation for the next test. (Warning—Do not
provision for suitable containment and disposal of the over- leave the vapor chamber with the gauge attached in the water
flowing sample to avoid fire hazard). Withdraw the transfer bath for a longer period of time than necessary to condition for
tube from the liquid chamber while allowing the sample to the next test. Water vapor can condense in the Bourdon tube
continue flowing up to complete withdrawal. and lead to erroneous results.)
15.5.2 If the purging of the vapor chamber is done in a bath,
15.2 Assembly of Apparatus—Immediately remove the va- be sure to avoid small films of floating sample by keeping the
por chamber from the water bath. Disconnect the spiral tubing bottom and top openings of the chamber closed as they pass
at the quick action disconnect. Couple the filled liquid chamber through the water surface.
to the vapor chamber as quickly as possible without spillage or
15.5.3 Preparation of Gauge or Transducer—In the correct
movement that could promote exchange of room temperature
operation of this procedure, liquid should not reach the gauge
air with the 37.8 °C (100 °F) air in the vapor chamber. Not
or transducer. If it is observed or suspected that liquid has
more than 10 s shall elapse between removing the vapor
reached the gauge, purge the gauge as described in 12.5.3. The
chamber from the water bath and completion of the coupling of
transducer has no cavity to trap liquid. Ensure that no liquid is
the two chambers.
present in the T handle fitting or spiral tubing by forcing a
15.3 Introduction of the Apparatus into the Bath—While stream of dry air through the tubing. Connect the gauge or
holding the apparatus vertically, immediately reconnect the transducer to the vapor chamber with the liquid connection
spiral tubing at the quick action disconnect. Tilt the apparatus closed and place in the 37.8 °C (100 °F) bath to condition for
between 20° and 30° downward for 4 s or 5 s to allow the the next test.
sample to flow into the vapor chamber without getting into the
tube extending into the vapor chamber from the gauge, or PROCEDURE C
pressure transducer. Place the assembled apparatus into the
FOR PETROLEUM PRODUCTS HAVING REID
water bath maintained at 37.8 °C 6 0.1 °C (100 °F 6 0.2 °F)
VAPOR PRESSURES ABOVE 180 kPa (26 psi)
in such a way that the bottom of the liquid chamber engages the
drive coupling and the other end of the apparatus rests on the
support bearing. Turn on the switch to begin the rotation of the 16. Introduction
assembled liquid-vapor chambers. Observe the apparatus for 16.1 With products having vapor pressure over 180 kPa
leakage throughout the test (see Note 5). Discard the test at (26 psi) (see Note 7), the procedure described in Sections 8 –
anytime a leak is detected. 12 is hazardous and inaccurate. Consequently, the following
15.4 Measurement of Vapor Pressure—After the assembled sections define changes in apparatus and procedure for the
apparatus has been in the bath for at least 5 min, tap the determinations of vapor pressures above 180 kPa. Except as
pressure gauge lightly and observe the reading. Repeat the specifically stated, all the requirements of Sections 1 – 12 shall
tapping and reading at intervals of not less than 2 min, until apply.
two consecutive readings are the same. (Tapping is not NOTE 7—If necessary, either Procedure A or B can be used to determine
necessary with the transducer model but the reading intervals if the vapor pressure of a product is above 180 kPa.

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 D323 − 15a
17. Apparatus Keep away from heat, sparks, and open flame. Keep container
17.1 Apparatus as described in Annex A1 using the liquid closed. Use only with adequate ventilation. Avoid prolonged
chamber with two openings. breathing of vapor or spray mist. Avoid prolonged, repeated
contact with skin.) (Warning—In addition to other
17.2 Pressure Gauge Calibration—A dead weight tester precautions, provide a safe means of disposal of liquid and
(see A1.7) may be used as a pressure measuring device (see vapor escaping during this whole operation.)
A1.6) for checking gauge readings above 180 kPa (26 psi). In 21.2.1 To avoid rupture because of the liquid-full condition
7.1.1, 9.1, 12.4, and 12.5.3 where the words pressure measur- of the liquid chamber, the liquid chamber must be quickly
ing device and pressure measuring device reading appear, attached to the vapor chamber and the 12.7 mm (0.5 in.) valve
include as an alternative dead weight tester and calibrated opened.
gauge reading, respectively.
21.3 Immediately attach the liquid chamber to the vapor
18. Hazards chamber and open the liquid chamber 12.7 mm (0.5 in.) valve.
Not more than 25 s shall pass in completing the assembly of
18.1 The precaution in 7.1.6 shall not apply. the apparatus after filling the liquid chamber, using the follow-
ing sequence of operations:
19. Sampling
21.3.1 Remove the vapor chamber from the water bath.
19.1 Paragraphs 8.3, 8.3.1, 8.4, and 8.5 shall not apply. 21.3.2 Connect the vapor chamber to the liquid chamber.
19.2 Sample Container Size—The size of the sample con- 21.3.3 Open the liquid chamber 12.7 mm (0.5 in.) valve.
tainer from which the vapor pressure sample is taken shall not 21.4 If a dead weight tester is used as a pressure measuring
be less than 0.5 L (1 pt) liquid capacity. device (see 17.2), apply the calibration factor in kilopascals
(pounds-force per square inch) established for the pressure
20. Preparation for Test gauge to the uncorrected vapor pressure. Record this value as
20.1 Paragraphs 11.1 and 11.2 shall not apply. the calibrated gauge reading and use in Section 9 in place of the
pressure measuring device reading.
20.2 Any safe method of displacement of the test sample
from the sample container that ensures filling the liquid PROCEDURE D
chamber with a chilled, unweathered sample may be employed.
Paragraphs 20.3 – 20.5 describe displacement by self-induced FOR AVIATION GASOLINES
pressure. APPROXIMATELY 50 kPa (7 psi) REID VAPOR
PRESSURE
20.3 Maintain the sample container at a temperature suffi-
ciently high to maintain superatmospheric pressure but not
22. Introduction
substantially over 37.8 °C (100 °F).
22.1 The following sections define changes in apparatus and
20.4 Completely immerse the liquid chamber, with both
procedure for the determination of the vapor pressure of
valves open, in the water cooling bath for a sufficient length of
aviation gasoline. Except as specifically stated herein, all the
time to allow it to reach the bath temperature of 0 °C to 4.5 °C
requirements set forth in Sections 1 – 12 shall apply.
(32 °F to 40 °F).
20.5 Connect a suitable ice-cooled coil to the outlet valve of 23. Apparatus
the sample container (see Note 8).
23.1 Ratio of Vapor and Liquid Chambers—The ratio of the
NOTE 8—A suitable ice-cooled coil can be prepared by immersing a volume of the vapor chamber to the volume of the liquid
spiral of approximately 8 m (25 ft) of 6.35 mm (0.25 in.) copper tubing in chamber shall be between the limits of 3.95 and 4.05 (see
a bucket of ice water.
A1.1.4).
21. Procedure
24. Sampling
21.1 Paragraphs 12.1 and 12.2 shall not apply.
24.1 Refer to Section 8.
21.2 Connect the 6.35 mm (0.25 in.) valve of the chilled
liquid chamber to the ice-cooled coil. With the 12.7 mm 25. Preparation for Test
(0.5 in.) valve of the liquid chamber closed, open the outlet
valve of the sample container and the 6.35 mm (0.25 in.) valve 25.1 Checking the Pressure Gauge or Pressure
of the liquid chamber. Open the liquid chamber 12.7 mm Transducer—The gauge shall be checked at 50 kPa (7 psi)
(0.5 in.) valve slightly and allow the liquid chamber to fill against a calibrated pressure measuring device (see A1.6,
slowly. Allow the sample to overflow until the overflow A1.6.1, and A1.7) before each vapor pressure measurement to
volume is 200 mL or more. Control this operation so that no ensure that it conforms to the requirements of A1.2. This
appreciable drop in pressure occurs at the liquid chamber preliminary check shall be made in addition to the final gauge
6.35 mm (0.25 in.) valve. In the order named, close the liquid comparison specified in 12.4 or 15.4.
chamber 12.7 mm (0.5 in.) and 6.35 mm (0.25 in.) valves; and
then close all other valves in the sample system. Disconnect the 26. Procedure
liquid chamber and the cooling coil. (Warning—Combustible. 26.1 Refer to Section 12.
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27. Keywords
27.1 crude oils; gasoline; Reid vapor pressure; spark-
ignition engine fuel; vapor pressure; volatility

ANNEXES

(Mandatory Information)

A1. APPARATUS FOR VAPOR PRESSURE TEST PROCEDURE A

A1.1 Reid Vapor Pressure Apparatus, consisting of two for coupling with the liquid chamber. Care shall be taken that
chambers, a vapor chamber (upper section) and a liquid the connections to the openings do not prevent the chamber
chamber (lower section), shall conform to the following from draining completely.
requirements: A1.1.2 Liquid Chamber—One Opening—The lower section
A1.1.1 Vapor Chamber— The upper section or chamber, as or liquid chamber, as shown in Fig. A1.1, shall be a cylindrical
shown in Fig. A1.1, shall be a cylindrical vessel having the vessel of the same inside diameter as the vapor chamber and of
inside dimensions of 51 mm 6 3 mm (2 in. 6 1⁄8 in.) in such a volume that the ratio of the volume of the vapor
diameter and 254 mm 6 3 mm (10 in.6 1⁄8 in.) in length, with chamber to the volume of the liquid chamber shall be between
the inner surfaces of the ends slightly sloped to provide 3.8 and 4.2. (see A1.1.3). In one end of the liquid chamber an
complete drainage from either end when held in a vertical opening of approximately 12.7 mm (1⁄2 in.) in diameter shall be
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position. On one end of the vapor chamber, a suitable gauge provided for coupling with the vapor chamber. The inner
coupling with an internal diameter of not less than 4.7 mm surface of the coupling end shall be sloped to provide complete
(3⁄16 in.) shall be provided to receive the 6.35 mm (1⁄4 in.) gauge drainage when inverted. The other end of the chamber shall be
connection. In the other end of the vapor chamber, an opening completely closed. (Warning—To maintain the correct vol-
approximately 12.7 mm (1⁄2 in.) in diameter shall be provided ume ratio between the vapor chamber and the liquid chamber,

DIMENSIONS OF VAPOR PRESSURE APPARATUS

Key Description mm in.
A Vapor chamber, length 254 ± 3 10 ± 1⁄8
B, C, D Vapor and gasoline chambers, 51 ± 3 2 ± 1⁄ 8
Liquid ID
E Coupling, ID min 4.7 ⁄
3 16

F, G Coupling, OD 12.7 12⁄

H Coupling, ID 12.7 12⁄
I Valve 12.7 1 ⁄2

J Valve 6.35 1 ⁄4

FIG. A1.1 Vapor Pressure Apparatus

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 D323 − 15a
paired chambers shall not be interchanged without recalibra- specifications of this test method. If this problem is
tion to ascertain that the volume ratio is within the required encountered, consult the manufacturer for a remedy.)
limits.)
A1.1.7 Volumetric Capacity of Vapor and Liquid
A1.1.3 The ratio of paired vapor and liquid chambers to be Chambers—To ascertain if the volume ratio of the chambers is
used for aviation gasoline testing shall be between 3.95 and within the specified limits of 3.8 to 5.2 (see A1.1.3), carefully
4.05. measure a quantity of water greater than will be required to fill
A1.1.4 Liquid Chamber—Two Openings—For sampling the two chambers. (A dispensing buret is a convenient vessel
from closed vessels, the liquid section of liquid chamber, as for this operation.) Without spillage fill the liquid chamber
shown in Fig. A1.1, shall be essentially the same as the liquid completely. The difference between the original volume and
chamber described in A1.1.2, except that a 6.35 mm (0.25 in.) the remaining volume of the measured water quantity is the
valve shall be attached near the bottom of the liquid chamber volume of the liquid chamber. Without spillage couple the
and a 12.7 mm (0.5 in.) straight-through, full-opening valve liquid and vapor chambers and fill the vapor chamber to the
shall be introduced in the coupling between the chambers. The seat of the gauge connection with more of the measured water.
volume of the liquid chamber, including only the capacity The difference between the final volume of the measured water
enclosed by the valves, shall fulfill the volume ratio require- quantity and the intermediate volume measured after ascertain-
ments as set forth in A1.1.2.
ing the liquid chamber volume is the volume of the vapor
A1.1.5 In determining the capacities for the two-opening chamber.
liquid chamber (Fig. A1.1), the capacity of the liquid chamber
shall be considered as that below the 12.7 mm (0.5 in.) valve A1.2 Pressure Gauge—The pressure gauge shall be a Bour-
closure. The volume above the 12.7 mm (0.5 in.) valve closure, don type spring gauge of test gauge quality 100 mm to 150 mm
including the portion of the coupling permanently attached to (4.5 in. to 6.5 in.) in diameter provided with a nominal
the liquid chamber, shall be considered as a part of the vapor 6.35 mm (0.25 in.) male thread connection with a passageway
chamber capacity. not less than 4.7 mm (3⁄16 in.) in diameter from the Bourdon
A1.1.6 Method of Coupling Vapor and Liquid Chambers— tube to the atmosphere. The range and graduations of the
Any method of coupling the vapor and liquid chambers can be pressure gauge shall be governed by the vapor pressure of the
employed, provided that no sample is lost from the liquid sample being tested, in accordance with Table A1.1. Only
chamber during the coupling operation, that no compression accurate gauges shall be continued in use. When the gauge
effect is caused by the act of coupling, and that the assembly is reading differs from the pressure measuring device reading, or
free of leaks under the conditions of the tests. To avoid dead-weight tester reading when testing gauges above 180 kPa
displacement of sample during assembly, the male fitting of the (26 psi), by more than 1 % of the scale range of the gauge, the
coupling must be on the liquid chamber. To avoid compression gauge shall be considered inaccurate. For example, the cali-
of air during assembly, a vent hole must be present to ensure bration correction shall not be greater than 0.3 kPa (0.15 psi)
atmospheric pressure in the vapor chamber at the instant of for a 0 kPa to 30 kPa (0 psi to 15 psi) gauge or 0.9 kPa (0.3 psi)
sealing. (Warning—Some commercially available apparatus for a 0 kPa to 90 kPa (0 psi to 30 psi) gauge.
do not make adequate provision for avoiding air compression NOTE A1.1—Gauges 90 mm (3.5 in.) in diameter can be used in the 0
effects. Before employing any apparatus, it shall be established kPa to 35 kPa (0 psi to 5 psi) range.
that the act of coupling the two chambers does not compress air
in the vapor chamber. This can be accomplished by tightly A1.3 Cooling Bath—A cooling bath shall be provided of
stoppering the liquid chamber and coupling the apparatus in the such dimensions that the sample containers and the liquid
normal manner, utilizing a 0 kPa to 35 kPa (0 psi to 5 psi) chambers can be completely immersed. Means for maintaining
gauge. Any observable pressure increase on the gauge is an the bath at a temperature between 0 °C and 1 °C (32 °F and 34
indication that the apparatus does not adequately meet the °F) must be provided. Do not use solid carbon dioxide to cool

TABLE A1.1 Pressure Gauge Range and Graduations

Gauge to be Used

Reid Vapor Pressure Maximum Maximum

Scale Range Numbered Intermediate
Intervals Graduations
kPa psi kPa psi kPa psi kPa psi
# 27.5 #4 0–35 0–5 5.0 1 0.5 0.1
20.0–75.0 3–12 0–100 0–15 15.0 3 0.5 0.1
70.0–180.0 10–26 0–200 0–30 25.0 5 1.0 0.2
70.0–250.0 10–36 0–300 0–45 25.0 5 1.0 0.2
200.0–375.0 30–55 0–400 0–60 50.0 10 1.5 0.25
$ 350.0 $ 50 0–700 0–100 50.0 10 2.5 0.5

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samples in storage or in the preparation of the air saturation (with traceability to a nationally recognized standard) to ensure
step. Carbon dioxide is appreciably soluble in gasoline and its that the device remains within the required accuracy specified
use has been found to be the cause of erroneous vapor pressure in A1.6.
data.
A1.7 Dead-Weight Tester—A dead weight tester may be
A1.4 Water Bath—The water bath shall be of such dimen- used as the pressure measuring device (A1.6) for checking
sions that the vapor pressure apparatus can be immersed to at gauge readings above 180 kPa (26 psi).
least 25.4 mm (1 in.) above the top of the vapor chamber.
A1.8 Sample Transfer Connection—This is a device for
Means for maintaining the bath at a constant temperature of removing liquid from the sample container without interfering
37.8 °C 6 0.1 °C (100 °F 6 0.2 °F) shall be provided. In order with the vapor space. The device consists of two tubes inserted
to check this temperature, the bath thermometer shall be into a two-holed stopper of appropriate dimensions to fit the
immersed to the 37 °C (98 °F) mark throughout the vapor opening of the sample container. One of the tubes is short for
pressure determination. the delivery of the sample, and the other is long enough to
reach the bottom corner of the sample container. Fig. A1.2
A1.5 Thermometer —An ASTM Reid Vapor Pressure Ther-
shows a suitable arrangement.
mometer 18C (18F) having a range from 34 °C to 42 °C (94 °F
to 108 °F) and conforming to the requirements in Specification
E1. Alternative non-mercury-containing liquid-in-glass ther-
mometers such as thermometer S18C in Specification E2251
conforming to the temperature range with equal or better
accuracy may be used.
A1.6 Pressure Measuring Device—A pressure measuring
device having a range suitable for checking the pressure gauge
employed shall be used. The pressure measuring device shall
have a minimum accuracy of 0.5 kPa (0.07 psi) with incre-
ments no larger than 0.5 kPa (0.07 psi).
A1.6.1 When a mercury manometer is not used as the
pressure measuring device, the calibration of the pressure
measuring device employed shall be periodically checked FIG. A1.2 Sample Transfer Connection

A2. APPARATUS FOR VAPOR PRESSURE TEST PROCEDURE B

A2.1 Vapor Pressure Apparatus—Refer to A1.1.1 through the bath at a constant temperature of 37.8 °C 6 0.1 °C (100 °F
A1.1.7. 6 0.2 °F) shall be provided. In order to check this temperature,
the bath thermometer shall be immersed to the 37 °C (98 °F)
A2.2 Pressure Gauge—The pressure measuring system mark throughout the vapor pressure determination. A suitable
shall be a Bourdon type spring gauge, as described in A1.2 or
bath is shown in Fig. A2.1 and is available commercially.
a suitable pressure transducer and digital readout. The pressure
measuring system shall be remotely mounted from the vapor A2.5 Thermometers—Refer to A1.5.
pressure apparatus and terminations provided for use of a quick
connection type fitting. A2.6 Pressure Measuring Device—Refer to A1.6.

A2.3 Cooling Bath—(Warning—To maintain the correct A2.7 Flexible Coupler—A suitable flexible coupling shall
volume ratio between the vapor chamber and the liquid be provided for connection of the rotating vapor pressure
chamber, paired chambers shall not be interchanged without apparatus to the pressure measuring device.
recalibration to ascertain that the volume ratio is within the
required limits.) A2.8 Vapor Chamber Tube—The vapor chamber tube of
inner diameter 3 mm (1⁄8 in.) and length of 114 mm (4.5 in.)
A2.4 Water Bath—The water bath shall be of such dimen- shall be inserted into the pressure measuring end of the vapor
sions that the vapor pressure apparatus can be immersed in a chamber to prevent liquid from entering the vapor pressure
horizontal position. Provision shall be made to rotate the measuring connections (see Fig. A2.2).
apparatus on its axis 350° in one direction and then 350° in the
opposite direction in repetitive fashion. Means for maintaining A2.9 Sample Transfer Connection—Refer to A1.8.

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FIG. A2.1 Apparatus for Vapor Pressure, Procedure B

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FIG. A2.2 Vapor Chamber Tube Inserted in Vapor Chamber

SUMMARY OF CHANGES

Subcommittee D02.08 has identified the location of selected changes to this standard since the last issue
(D323 – 15) that may impact the use of this standard. (Approved June 1, 2015.)

(1) Deleted former 3.1.3, definition for gasoline-oxygenate

blend.

Subcommittee D02.08 has identified the location of selected changes to this standard since the last issue
(D323 – 08 (2014)) that may impact the use of this standard. (Approved April 1, 2015.)

(1) Revised Referenced Documents to add Specification (2) Revised A1.5.

E2251.

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