This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles

for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

Designation: D1298 − 12b (Reapproved 2017)´1

Manual of Petroleum Measurement Standards (MPMS), Chapter 9.1

Standard Test Method for

Density, Relative Density, or API Gravity of Crude Petroleum
and Liquid Petroleum Products by Hydrometer Method1
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D1298; 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.

ε1 NOTE—Editorially corrected adjunct information in March 2023.

1. Scope The calculations required in Section 10 shall be applied to the

1.1 This test method covers the laboratory determination initial hydrometer reading with observations and results re-
using a glass hydrometer in conjunction with a series of ported as required by Section 11 prior to use in a subsequent
calculations, of the density, relative density, or API gravity of calculation procedure (ticket calculation, meter factor
crude petroleum, petroleum products, or mixtures of petroleum calculation, or base prover volume determination).
and nonpetroleum products normally handled as liquids, and 1.5 Annex A1 contains a procedure for verifying or certify-
having a Reid vapor pressure of 101.325 kPa (14.696 psi) or ing the equipment for this test method.
less. Values are determined at existing temperatures and 1.6 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as
corrected to 15 °C or 60 °F by means of a series of calculations standard.
and international standard tables. 1.6.1 Exception—The values given in parentheses are pro-
1.2 The initial hydrometer readings obtained are uncor- vided for information only.
rected hydrometer readings and not density measurements. 1.7 This standard does not purport to address all of the
Readings are measured on a hydrometer at either the reference safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
temperature or at another convenient temperature, and readings responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
are corrected for the meniscus effect, the thermal glass expan- priate safety and health practices and determine the applica-
sion effect, alternative calibration temperature effects and to the bility of regulatory limitations prior to use.
reference temperature by means of the Petroleum Measurement 1.8 This international standard was developed in accor-
Tables; values obtained at other than the reference temperature dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
being hydrometer readings and not density measurements. ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
1.3 Readings determined as density, relative density, or API Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
gravity can be converted to equivalent values in the other units mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
or alternative reference temperatures by means of Interconver- Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
sion Procedures (API MPMS Chapter 11.5), or Adjunct to
D1250 Guide for Petroleum Measurement Tables (API MPMS 2. Referenced Documents
Chapter 11.1), or both, or tables, as applicable. 2.1 ASTM Standards:2
1.4 The initial hydrometer readings determined in the labo- D1250 Guide for the Use of the Joint API and ASTM
ratory shall be recorded before performing any calculations. Adjunct for Temperature and Pressure Volume Correction
Factors for Generalized Crude Oils, Refined Products, and
1
Lubricating Oils: API MPMS Chapter 11.1
This test method is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D02 on
Petroleum Products, Liquid Fuels, and Lubricants and the API Committee on
D4057 Practice for Manual Sampling of Petroleum and
Petroleum Measurement, and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee D02.02 Petroleum Products
/COMQ, the joint ASTM-API Committee on Hydrocarbon Measurement for
Custody Transfer (Joint ASTM-API). This test method has been approved by the
sponsoring committees and accepted by the Cooperating Societies in accordance
2
with established procedures. For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
Current edition approved July 15, 2017. Published July 2017. Originally contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM
approved in 1953. Last previous edition approved in 2012 as D1298 – 12b. DOI: Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
10.1520/D1298-12BR17E01. the ASTM website.

© Jointly copyrighted by ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959, USA and the American Petroleum Institute (API), 1220 L Street NW, Washington DC 20005, USA

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D4177 Practice for Automatic Sampling of Petroleum and 3.1.3.1 Discussion—Other reference temperatures, such as
Petroleum Products 20 °C, may be used for some products or in some locations.
D5854 Practice for Mixing and Handling of Liquid Samples Less preferred units of measurement (for example, kg/L or
of Petroleum and Petroleum Products g/mL) are still in use.
E1 Specification for ASTM Liquid-in-Glass Thermometers 3.1.4 hydrometer reading, n—the point on the hydrometer
E100 Specification for ASTM Hydrometers scale at which the surface of the liquid cuts the scale.
2.2 API Standards:3 3.1.4.1 Discussion—In practice for transparent fluids this
MPMS Chapter 8.1 Manual Sampling of Petroleum and can be readily determined by aligning the surface of the liquid
Petroleum Products (ASTM Practice D4057) on both sides of the hydrometer and reading the Hydrometer
MPMS Chapter 8.2 Automatic Sampling of Petroleum and scale where these surface readings cut the scale (Hydrometer
Petroleum Products (ASTM Practice D4177) Reading – Observed). For nontransparent fluids the point at
MPMS Chapter 8.3 Mixing and Handling of Liquid Samples which the liquid surface cuts the Hydrometer scale cannot be
of Petroleum and Petroleum Products (ASTM Practice determined directly and requires a correction (Meniscus Cor-
D5854) rection). The value represented by the point (Meniscus Read-
MPMS Chapter 11.1 Temperature and Pressure Volume Cor- ing) at which the liquid sample rises above the main surface of
rection Factors for Generalized Crude Oils, Refined Prod- the liquid subtracted from the value represented by where the
ucts and Lubricating Oils (Adjunct to ASTM D1250) main surface of the liquid cuts the Hydrometer scale is the
MPMS Chapter 11.5 Density/Weight/Volume Intraconver- amount of the correction or Meniscus correction. This menis-
sion cus correction is documented and then subtracted from the
2.3 Energy Institute Standards:4 value represented by the Meniscus Reading to yield the
IP 389 Determination of wax appearance temperature Hydrometer Reading corrected for the Meniscus (Hydrometer
(WAT) of middle distillate fuels by differential thermal Reading – Observed, Meniscus Corrected).
analysis (DTA) or differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) 3.1.5 observed values, n—values observed at temperatures
IP Standard Methods Book, Appendix A, Specifications – IP other than the specified reference temperature. These values are
Standard Thermometers only hydrometer readings and not density, relative density
2.4 ISO Standards:5 (specific gravity), or API gravity at that other temperature.
ISO 649-1 Laboratory glassware – Density hydrometers for 3.1.6 pour point, n—lowest temperature at which a test
general purpose – Part 1: Specification portion of crude petroleum or petroleum product will continue
2.5 ASTM Adjuncts: to flow when it is cooled under specified conditions.
Adjunct to D1250 Standard Guide for the Use of the Joint
3.1.7 relative density (specific gravity), n—the ratio of the
API and ASTM Adjunct for Temperature and Pressure
mass of a given volume of liquid at a specific temperature to
Volume Correction Factors for Generalized Crude Oils,
the mass of an equal volume of pure water at the same or
Refined Products, and Lubricant Oils: API MPMS Chapter
different temperature. Both reference temperatures shall be
11.1, Addenda 1 and 26
explicitly stated.
3. Terminology 3.1.7.1 Discussion—Common reference temperatures in-
clude 60/60 °F, 20 ⁄20 °C, 20/4 °C. The historic deprecated
3.1 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard: term specific gravity may still be found.
3.1.1 API gravity, n—a special function of relative density
3.1.8 wax appearance temperature (WAT), n—temperature
(specific gravity) 60/60 °F, represented by:
at which waxy solids form when a crude petroleum or
°API 5 @ 141.5/ ~ relative density 60/60 °F ! # 2 131.5 (1) petroleum product is cooled under specified conditions.
3.1.1.1 Discussion—No statement of reference temperature
is required, as 60 °F is included in the definition. 4. Summary of Test Method
3.1.2 cloud point, n—temperature at which a cloud of wax 4.1 The sample is brought to a specified temperature and a
crystals first appears in a liquid when it is cooled under specific test portion is transferred to a hydrometer cylinder that has
conditions. been brought to approximately the same temperature. The
3.1.3 density, n—the mass of liquid per unit volume at 15 °C appropriate hydrometer and thermometer, also at a similar
and 101.325 kPa with the standard unit of measurement being temperature, are lowered into the test portion and allowed to
kilograms per cubic metre. settle. After temperature equilibrium has been reached, the
hydrometer scale is read, and the temperature of the test
portion is taken. The observed hydrometer reading is corrected
3
Published as Manual of Petroleum Measurement Standards. Available from the for the meniscus effect, the thermal glass expansion effect,
American Petroleum Institute (API), 1220 L St., NW, Washington, DC 20005-4070,
http://www.api.org. alternative calibration temperature effects and then reduced to
4
Available from Energy Institute, 61 New Cavendish St., London, W1G 7AR, the reference temperature by means of the volume correction
U.K., http://www.energyinst.org.
5
factors or tables as applicable by use of the appropriate Adjunct
Available from American National Standards Institute (ANSI), 25 W. 43rd St.,
to D1250 Guide for Petroleum Measurement Tables (API
4th Floor, New York, NY 10036, http://www.ansi.org.
6
Available from ASTM International Headquarters. Order Adjunct No. MPMS Chapter 11.1) and observed temperature from the
ADJD1250-A1A2-E-PDF. Original adjunct produced in 1983. thermometer.

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4.2 If necessary, the hydrometer cylinder and its contents native calibration temperature effects shall be applied to the
are placed in a constant temperature bath to avoid excessive observed readings prior to corrections. Instruments that satisfy
temperature variation during the test. the requirements of this test method, but are not provided with
a recognized calibration certificate, are classed as uncertified.
5. Significance and Use
6.2 Thermometers, having range, graduation intervals and
5.1 Accurate determination of the density, relative density maximum permitted scale error shown in Table 2 and conform-
(specific gravity), or API gravity of petroleum and its products ing to Specification E1 or IP Appendix A.
is necessary for the conversion of measured volumes to 6.2.1 Alternative measuring devices or systems may be
volumes or masses, or both, at the standard reference tempera- used, provided that the total uncertainty of the calibrated
tures of 15 °C or 60 °F during custody transfer. system is no greater than that specified in 6.2. The stated
5.2 This procedure is most suitable for determining the repeatability and reproducibility values are not applicable if
density, relative density (specific gravity), or API gravity of alternative fluids are used in the liquid-in-glass thermometers.
low viscosity transparent liquids. This procedure can also be 6.3 Hydrometer Cylinder, clear glass, or plastic (see 6.3.1).
used for viscous liquids by allowing sufficient time for the The inside diameter of the cylinder shall be at least 25 mm
hydrometer to reach temperature equilibrium, and for opaque greater than the outside diameter of the hydrometer and the
liquids by employing a suitable meniscus correction. Addition- height shall be such that the appropriate hydrometer floats in
ally for both transparent and opaque fluids the readings shall be the sample test portion with at least 25 mm clearance between
corrected for the thermal glass expansion effect and alternative the bottom of the hydrometer and the bottom of the cylinder.
calibration temperature effects before correcting to the refer- 6.3.1 Hydrometer cylinders constructed of plastic materials
ence temperature. shall be resistant to discoloration or attack by oil samples and
5.3 When used in connection with bulk oil measurements, shall not affect the material being tested. They shall not become
volume correction errors are minimized by observing the opaque under prolonged exposure to sunlight.
hydrometer reading at a temperature close to that of the bulk oil 6.4 Constant-Temperature Bath, if required, of dimensions
temperature. such that it can accommodate the hydrometer cylinder with the
5.4 Density, relative density, or API gravity is a factor test portion fully immersed below the test portion liquid
governing the quality and pricing of crude petroleum. surface, and a temperature control system capable of maintain-
However, this property of petroleum is an uncertain indication ing the bath temperature within 0.25 °C of the test temperature
of its quality unless correlated with other properties. throughout the duration of the test.
5.5 Density is an important quality indicator for automotive, 6.5 Stirring Rod, optional, of glass or plastic, approximately
aviation and marine fuels, where it affects storage, handling 400 mm in length.
and combustion.
7. Sampling
6. Apparatus 7.1 Unless otherwise specified, samples of non-volatile
6.1 Hydrometers, of glass, graduated in units of density, petroleum and petroleum products shall be taken by the
relative density, or API gravity as required, conforming to procedures described in Practice D4057 (API MPMS Chapter
Specification E100 or ISO 649-1, and the requirements given 8.1) and D4177 (API MPMS Chapter 8.2).
in Table 1. 7.2 Samples of volatile crude petroleum or petroleum prod-
6.1.1 The user should ascertain that the instruments used for ucts are preferably taken by Practice D4177 (API MPMS
this procedure conform to the requirements set out above with Chapter 8.2), using a variable volume (floating piston) sample
respect to materials, dimensions, and scale errors. In cases receiver to minimize any loss of light components which may
where the instrument is provided with a calibration certificate affect the accuracy of the density measurement. In the absence
issued by a recognized standardizing body, the instrument is of this facility, extreme care shall be taken to minimize these
classed as certified and the appropriate corrections for the losses, including the transfer of the sample to a chilled
meniscus effect, the thermal glass expansion effect, and alter- container immediately after sampling.
7.3 Sample Mixing—May be necessary to obtain a test
TABLE 1 Recommended Hydrometers portion representative of the bulk sample to be tested, but
Units Range ScaleA Meniscus precautions shall be taken to maintain the integrity of the
Total
Each
IntervalA ErrorA Correction sample during this operation. Mixing of volatile crude petro-
Unit
leum or petroleum products containing water or sediments, or
Density, kg/m3 at 15 °C 600 - 1100 20 0.2 ± 0.2 +0.3
600 - 1100 50 0.5 ± 0.3 +0.7
both, or the heating of waxy volatile crude petroleum or
600 - 1100 50 1.0 ± 0.6 +1.4
Relative density, 60/60 °F 0.600 - 1.100 0.020 0.0002 ± 0.0002 +0.0003
0.600 - 1.100 0.050 0.0005 ± 0.0003 +0.0007
TABLE 2 Recommended Thermometers
0.600 - 1.100 0.050 0.001 ± 0.0006 +0.0014 Scale Range Graduation Interval Scale Error
Relative density, 60/60 °F 0.650 - 1.100 0.050 0.0005 ±0.0005 +0.0007
°C −1 – +38 0.1 ± 0.1
API Gravity −1 - +101 12 0.1 ± 0.1 -0.1
°C −20 – +102 0.2 ± 0.15
A
Interval and Error relate to Scale. °F −5 – +215 0.5 ± 0.25

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 D1298 − 12b (2017)´1
petroleum products may result in the loss of light components. 9.1.2 For crude petroleum, bring the sample close to the
The following subsections (7.3.1 to 7.3.4) will give some reference temperature or, if wax is present, to 9 °C above its
guidance on sample integrity maintenance. expected pour point or 3 °C above its expected cloud point or
7.3.1 Volatile Crude Petroleum and Petroleum Products WAT, whichever is higher.
Having an RVP Greater than 50 kPa—Mix the sample in its
NOTE 5—For crude petroleum an indication of the WAT can be found
original closed container in order to minimize the loss of light using IP 389, with the modification of using 50 µL 6 5 µL of sample. The
components. precision of WAT for crude petroleum using this technique has not been
determined.
NOTE 1—Mixing volatile samples in open containers will lead to loss of
light components and consequently affect the value of the density 9.2 Density Measurement:
obtained. 9.2.1 Bring the hydrometer cylinder and thermometer to
7.3.2 Waxy Crude Petroleum—If the petroleum has an within approximately 5 °C of the test temperature.
expected pour point above 10 °C, or a cloud point or WAT 9.2.2 Transfer the sample to the clean, temperature-
above 15 °C, warm the sample to a temperature that is stabilized hydrometer cylinder without splashing, to avoid the
sufficient for ensuring the material is fluid enough to provide formation of air bubbles, and minimize evaporation of the
adequate mixing without excessively heating the material that lower boiling constituents of more volatile samples.
would otherwise compromise the integrity of the sample. (Warning—Extremely flammable. Vapors may cause flash
Samples heated to 9 °C above its pour point, or 3 °C above its fire!)
cloud point or WAT have been found to be suitable tempera- 9.2.3 Transfer highly volatile samples by siphoning or water
tures to warm samples prior to mixing. Whenever possible, mix displacement. (Warning—Do not siphon by mouth as it could
the sample in its original closed container in order to minimize result in ingestion of sample!)
the loss of light components. 9.2.3.1 Samples containing alcohol or other water-soluble
7.3.3 Waxy Distillate—Warm the sample to a temperature materials should be placed into the cylinder by siphoning.
that is sufficient for ensuring the material is fluid enough to 9.2.4 Remove any air bubbles formed after they have
provide adequate mixing without excessively heating the collected on the surface of the test portion, by touching them
material that would otherwise compromise the integrity of the with a piece of clean filter paper or other suitable means before
sample. Samples heated to 3 °C above its cloud point or WAT inserting the hydrometer.
have been found to be suitable temperatures to warm samples 9.2.5 Place the cylinder containing the test portion in a
prior to mixing. vertical position in a location free from air currents and where
7.3.4 Residual Fuel Oils—Heat the sample to the test the temperature of the surrounding medium does not change
temperature prior to mixing (see 9.1.1 and Note 4). more than 2 °C during the time taken to complete the test.
7.4 Additional information on the mixing and handling of When the temperature of the test portion differs by more than
liquid samples will be found in Practice D5854 (API MPMS 2 °C from ambient, use a constant temperature bath to maintain
Chapter 8.3). an even temperature throughout the test duration.
9.2.6 Insert the appropriate thermometer or temperature
8. Apparatus Verification or Certification measurement device and stir the test portion with a stirring rod,
8.1 Hydrometers and thermometers shall be verified in using a combination of vertical and rotational motions to
accordance with the procedures in Annex A1. ensure uniform temperature and density throughout the hy-
drometer cylinder. Record the temperature of the sample to the
9. Procedure nearest 0.1 °C and remove the thermometer/temperature mea-
suring device and stirring rod from the hydrometer cylinder.
9.1 Temperature of Test:
9.1.1 Bring the sample to the test temperature which shall be NOTE 6—If a liquid-in-glass thermometer is used, this is commonly
used as the stirring rod.
such that the sample is sufficiently fluid but not so high as to
cause the loss of light components, nor so low as to result in the 9.2.7 Lower the appropriate hydrometer into the liquid and
appearance of waxy solids in the test portion. release when in a position of equilibrium, taking care to avoid
wetting the stem above the level at which it floats freely. For
NOTE 2—The density, relative density or API gravity determined by the
hydrometer is most accurate at or near the reference temperature.
low viscosity transparent or translucent liquids observe the
NOTE 3—The volume and density, the relative density, and the API meniscus shape when the hydrometer is pressed below the
corrections in the volume correction tables are based on the average point of equilibrium about 1 mm to 2 mm and allowed to return
expansions of a number of typical materials. Since the same coefficients to equilibrium. If the meniscus changes, clean the hydrometer
were used in compiling each set of tables, corrections made over the same stem and repeat until the meniscus shape remains constant.
temperature interval minimize errors arising from possible differences
between the coefficient of the material under test and the standard 9.2.8 For opaque viscous liquids, allow the hydrometer to
coefficients. This effect becomes more important as temperatures diverge settle slowly into the liquid.
from the reference temperature. 9.2.9 For low viscosity transparent or translucent liquids
NOTE 4—The hydrometer reading is obtained at a temperature appro- depress the hydrometer about two scale divisions into the
priate to the physico-chemical characteristics of the material under test.
This temperature is preferably close to the reference temperature, or when liquid, and then release it, imparting a slight spin to the
the value is used in conjunction with bulk oil measurements, within 3 °C hydrometer on release to assist in bringing it to rest floating
of the bulk temperature (see 5.3). freely from the walls of the hydrometer cylinder. Ensure that

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the remainder of the hydrometer stem, which is above the
liquid level, is not wetted as liquid on the stem affects the
reading obtained.
9.2.10 Allow sufficient time for the hydrometer to come to
rest, and for all air bubbles to come to the surface. Remove any
air bubbles before taking a reading (see 9.2.12).
9.2.11 If the hydrometer cylinder is made of plastic, dissi-
pate any static charges by wiping the outside with a damp
cloth. ( Static charges often build up on plastic cylinders and
may prevent the hydrometer from floating freely.)
9.2.12 When the hydrometer has come to rest floating freely
away from the walls of the cylinder, read the hydrometer scale
reading to the nearest one-fifth or one-tenth of a full scale
division depending upon the number of subdivisions (that is, 5
or 10, respectively) that exist between a full scale division in
accordance with 9.2.12.1 or 9.2.12.2.
9.2.12.1 For transparent liquids, record the hydrometer
reading as the point on the hydrometer scale at which the
principal surface of the liquid cuts the scale by placing the eye
slightly below the level of the liquid and slowly raising it until
the surface, first seen as a distorted ellipse, appears to become
a straight line cutting the hydrometer scale (see Fig. 1).
9.2.12.2 For opaque liquids record the hydrometer reading
at the point on the hydrometer scale to which the sample rises
above its main surface, by observing with the eye slightly
above the plane of the surface of the liquid (see Fig. 2). This

FIG. 2 Hydrometer Scale Reading for Opaque Fluids

reading requires a meniscus correction. This correction can be

determined by one of two methods: (1) observe the height
above the main surface of the liquid to which the sample rises
on the hydrometer scale when the hydrometer in question is
immersed in a transparent liquid having a surface tension
similar to that of a sample under test; (2) uses the nominal
values shown in Table 1. Document this value as the Meniscus
correction.
NOTE 7—When testing opaque liquids using a metal hydrometer
cylinder, accurate readings of the hydrometer scale can only be ensured if
the liquid surface is within 5 mm of the top of the cylinder.
9.2.13 Immediately after recording the hydrometer scale
reading, carefully lift the hydrometer out of the liquid, insert
the thermometer or temperature measurement device and stir
the test portion vertically with the stirring rod. Record the
temperature of the test portion to the nearest 0.1 °C. If this
temperature differs from the previous reading (9.2.6) by more
than 0.05 °C, repeat the hydrometer observations and ther-
mometer observations until the temperature becomes stable
within 0.05 °C. If a stable temperature cannot be obtained,
place the hydrometer cylinder in a constant temperature bath
and repeat the procedure from 9.1.
9.2.14 If the test temperature is higher than 38 °C, allow all
hydrometers of the lead shot-in-wax type to drain and cool in
FIG. 1 Hydrometer Scale Reading for Transparent Liquids a vertical position.

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10. Calculation HYC 5 1.0 2 @ 0.000023 ~ t 2 20! # 2 @ 0.00000002 ~ t 2 20! 2 # (6)
Leave the result un-rounded.
10.1 Apply any relevant thermometer corrections to the
temperature reading observed in 9.2.6 and 9.2.13 and record Step 3. Multiply the density in kg/m3 from Step 1 by the
the average of those two temperatures to the nearest 0.1 °C. proper HYC from Step 2 to obtain the glass thermal expansion
corrected hydrometer density reading.
10.2 Record the observed hydrometer scale readings to the
nearest 0.1 kg ⁄m3 in density, 0.0001 g ⁄mL, kg ⁄L or relative kg/m 3 HYC 5 kg/m 3 *HYC (7)
If the temperature was in degrees Celsius, skip to Step 5.
density, or 0.1° API for transparent liquids.
10.2.1 For opaque samples, apply the relevant meniscus Step 4a. Convert the densities calculated in Step 3 that
correction given in Table 1 or determine it as indicated in started as API Gravity or Relative Density (RD) to RD
9.2.12.2 to the observed hydrometer reading (9.2.12.2) as (Relative Density).
hydrometers are calibrated to be read at the principal surface of NOTE 8—The current C source code compiled dll and Excel Add-in has
the liquid. an omission and cannot use a kg/m3 call with degree F.
10.3 Apply any hydrometer correction identified in a cali- R.D. 5 kg/m 3 HYC/999.016 (8)
bration certificate to the observed reading and record the
corrected hydrometer scale reading to the nearest 0.1 kg ⁄m3 in Step 4b. Input R.D. and degree F into section 11.1.6.2 of the
density, 0.0001 g ⁄mL, kg/L or relative density, or 0.1 °API. Adjunct to D1250–04 Guide for Petroleum Measurement
Tables (API MPMS Chapter 11.1–2004), which returns R.D. @
10.4 Application of the glass thermal expansion correction 60 °F.
depends upon what version of Adjunct to D1250 Guide for
NOTE 9—Pressure will have to be atmospheric gauge, or 0 psig as the
Petroleum Measurement Tables (API MPMS Chapter 11.1) will Adjunct to D1250 Guide for Petroleum Measurement Tables (API MPMS
be used to calculate the base density. Chapter 11.1) values are only valid at atmospheric pressure.
(a) The 1980 version of the Adjunct to D1250 Guide for Step 4c. Convert the calculated R.D. value @ 60 °F to a
Petroleum Measurement Tables (API MPMS Chapter 11.1) has calculated API Gravity @ 60 °F using Eq 9, if the original
the hydrometer glass thermal expansion correction included. input was in API units.
Input into the VCF software requires the Hydrometer Reading
– Observed or Hydrometer Reading – Observed, Meniscus API Gravity 5 ~ 141.5/R.D. ! 2 131.5 (9)
Corrected in API, R.D., or kg/m3 units from 9.2.12.2, observed Step 5. Input the density calculated in Step 3 in kg/m HYC, 3

temperature of the sample, and the built-in hydrometer glass degree C, base temperature (15 °C or 20 °C) into Section
thermal correction switch set to on (0) or off (1). It will return 11.1.7.2 of the Adjunct to D1250–04 Guide for Petroleum
API or R.D. @ 60 °F or kg/m3 @ 15 °C. Measurement Tables (API MPMS Chapter 11.1–2004), which
(b) The 2004 version of the Adjunct to D1250 Guide for will return a calculated density in kg/m3 units at the selected
Petroleum Measurement Tables (API MPMS Chapter 11.1) base temperature.
does not include the hydrometer glass thermal expansion
correction, so that correction must be made before entering the NOTE 10—Pressure will have to be atmospheric gauge, 0 psig,
101.325 kPa or 0 bar as the Adjunct to D1250 Guide for Petroleum
software. Depending on the specific end use of the calculation Measurement Tables (API MPMS Chapter 11.1) values are only valid at
results, the final value may be left rounded or unrounded. atmospheric pressure.
The following steps are required to implement 10.4b: c. Future versions of the Adjunct to D1250 Guide for
Step 1. Convert the corrected hydrometer scale reading to Petroleum Measurement Tables (API MPMS Chapter 11.1)
density in kg/m3 if necessary, using either Eq 2 or Eq 3. code will be corrected so that it can accept any combination of
Scale Units Conversion input units and return any combination of output units. When
API gravity available, the Adjunct to D1250 Guide for Petroleum Measure-
Density ~ kg/m 3 ! 5 ~ 141.5*999.016! / ~ 131.51°API! (2) ment Tables (API MPMS Chapter 11.1) code can be accessed
Scale Units Conversion
directly from Step 3 and return API @ 60 °F, R.D. @ 60 °F,
Relative density and kg/m3 at any selected base temperature.
Example 1:
Density ~ kg/m 3 ! 5 R.D.*999.016 (3)
Sample: Crude Oil
Observed Temperature: 77 °F
Leave the result unrounded. Observed Hydrometer Reading: 33.2 API Gravity
Step 2. Calculate the hydrometer thermal glass expansion Base Temperature: 60 °F
Step 1: 858.2924347298... Eq 2, Eq 3
correction factor using the appropriate equation below (t is Step 2: 0.999780948... Eq 4, Eq 5, Eq 6
observed temperature). Step 3: 858.104424227 Eq 7
Correction for a Base Temperature (Tb) of 60 °F: Step 4a: 0.858949631... Eq 8
Step 4b: 0.865678279...
HYC 5 1.0 2 @ 0.00001278 ~ t 2 60! # 2 @ 0.0000000062 ~ t 2 60! 2 # (4) Step 4c1: 31.955643312... Eq 9 unrounded
Step 4c2: 32.0°API Eq 9 rounded
Correction for a Base Temperature (Tb) of 15 °C:
Example 2:
HYC 5 1.0 2 @ 0.000023 ~ t 2 15! # 2 @ 0.00000002 ~ t 2 15! 2 # (5) Sample: Crude Oil
Observed Temperature: 25.0 °C
Correction for a Base Temperature (Tb) of 20 °C: Observed Hydrometer Reading: 858.29 kg/m3

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 D1298 − 12b (2017)´1

Observed Pressure: 0 bar 12. Precision and Bias

Base Temperature: 15 °C
Step 1: 858.290000000...
no conversion necessary
12.1 Precision—The precision of the test method as deter-
Step 2: Eq 4
0.999768000... mined by statistical examination of interlaboratory results is as
Step 3: 858.090876720...
Eq 7 follows:
Step 5.1: 865.207470082...
unrounded
Step 5.2 865.21 kg/m3 rounded 12.1.1 Repeatability—The difference between two test
results, obtained by the same operator with the same apparatus
Example 3: under constant operating conditions on identical test material,
Sample: Crude Oil
Observed Temperature: 77.0 °F would in the long run, in the normal and correct operation of
Observed Hydrometer Reading (R.D.): 0.859138 the test method, exceed the values in Table 3 only in 1 case in
Observed Pressure 0 psig 20.
Base Temp: 60 °F
Step 1: 858.292608208... Eq 2, Eq 3 12.1.2 Reproducibility—The difference between two single
Step 2: 0.999780948... Eq 4, Eq 5, Eq 6 and independent results obtained by different operators work-
Step 3: 858.104597667... Eq 7 ing in different laboratories on identical test material would, in
Step 4a: 0.858949804... Eq 8
Step 4b 0.865678451... unrounded the long run, in the normal and correct operation of the test
Step 4c 0.8657... rounded method, exceed the following values only in 1 case in 20.
10.5 If the hydrometer has been calibrated at a temperature 12.1.3 The repeatability and reproducibility values provided
in Table 3 are not based on any interlaboratory round robin
other than the reference temperature, use the equation below to
results. They should be considered historical numbers, the
correct the hydrometer scale reading:
source of which can not be verified by either ASTM or API and
ρt have been in this document prior to the current slate of blended
ρr 5 (10)
1 2 @ 23 × 1026 ~ t 2 r ! 2 2 × 1028 ~ t 2 r ! 2 # crude oils, RFG gasoline’s and reformulated distillates. These
where: values do not apply to the current calculation procedures and it
is up to the user to determine whether this test method provides
ρr = hydrometer reading at the reference temperature, r °C, results of sufficient accuracy for the intended purpose.
and
ρt = hydrometer reading on the hydrometer scale whose 12.2 Bias—Bias for this test method has not been deter-
reference temperature is t °C. mined. However, there should be no bias from absolute
measurements, if the calibration of the hydrometer and the
11. Report thermometer is traceable to International Standards, such as
supplied by the National Institute of Standards and Technology.
11.1 Report the final value as density, in kilograms per cubic
13. Keywords
metre, at the reference temperature, to the nearest 0.1 kg ⁄m3.
13.1 API gravity; crude petroleum; density; hydrometer;
11.2 Report the final value as density, in kilograms per litre Petroleum Measurement Tables; petroleum products; relative
or grams per millilitre at the reference temperature, to the density; specific gravity
nearest 0.0001.
TABLE 3 Precision Values
11.3 Report the final value as relative density, with no
Product: Transparent Low-viscosity Liquids
dimensions, at the two reference temperatures, to the nearest Temperature
Repeat- Repro-
0.0001. Parameter Range, Units
ability ducibility
°C (°F)
11.4 Report the final value as API gravity to the nearest 0.1° Density –2 to 24.5 kg/m3 0.5 1.2
(29 to 76) kg/L or g/mL 0.0005 0.0012
API. Relative Density –2 to 24.5 NONE 0.0005 0.0012
(29 to 76)
11.5 The reporting values have no precision or bias deter- API Gravity (42 to 78) °API 0.1 0.3
mination. It is up to the user to determine whether this test Product: Opaque Liquids
Temperature
method provides results of sufficient accuracy for the intended Parameter Range, Units
Repeat- Repro-
ability ducibility
purpose. °C (°F)
Density –2 to 24.5 kg/m3 0.6 1.5
11.6 Certified hydrometers from a recognized standardizing (29 to 76) kg/L or g/mL 0.0006 0.0015
Relative Density –2 to 24.5 NONE 0.0006 0.0015
body, such as NIST, report the output density as ‘Density in (29 to 76)
Vacuo.’ API Gravity (42 to 78) °API 0.2 0.5

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 D1298 − 12b (2017)´1
ANNEX

(Mandatory Information)

A1. APPARATUS

A1.1 Apparatus Verification and Certification A1.1.2 Thermometers, shall be verified at intervals of no
A1.1.1 Hydrometers, shall either be certified or verified. more than six months for conformance with specifications.
Verification shall be either by comparison with a certified Either comparison with a referenced temperature measurement
hydrometer (see 6.1.1) or by the use of a certified reference system traceable to an international standard, or a determina-
material (CRM) specific to the reference temperature used. tion of ice point, is suitable.
A1.1.1.1 The hydrometer scale shall be correctly located
within the hydrometer stem by reference to the datum mark. If
the scale has moved, reject the hydrometer.

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