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API Gravity Correction Formula:
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API Gravity Correction adjusts the measured API gravity of petroleum products to the standard temperature of 60°F (15.56°C). This correction accounts for the thermal expansion of the liquid with temperature changes.
The calculator uses the API Gravity Correction formula:
Where:
Explanation: The equation linearly corrects the API gravity reading to what it would be at the standard temperature of 60°F.
Details: Accurate API gravity measurements are essential for petroleum product classification, quality control, and commercial transactions. The correction ensures consistent measurements regardless of the actual temperature during testing.
Tips: Enter the measured API gravity and the temperature at which it was measured. The calculator will provide the corrected API gravity at 60°F.
Q1: Why is 60°F the standard temperature?
A: 60°F (15.56°C) was established as the international standard reference temperature for petroleum measurements to ensure consistency across measurements and locations.
Q2: How accurate is this correction?
A: The linear correction is sufficiently accurate for most practical purposes, though for precise measurements or extreme temperatures, more complex corrections might be needed.
Q3: Does this apply to all petroleum products?
A: This correction is generally valid for crude oils and most refined products, but some specialized products may require different correction factors.
Q4: What's the relationship between API gravity and density?
A: API gravity is an inverse measure of a petroleum liquid's density relative to water, calculated as: API = (141.5/specific gravity) - 131.5.
Q5: When is API correction most important?
A: The correction is most significant when the measurement temperature differs substantially from 60°F or when precise gravity measurements are required.