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API Temperature Adjustment Formula:
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The API temperature adjustment formula corrects specific gravity measurements for temperature variations, as fluid density changes with temperature. This ensures accurate comparisons of specific gravity values measured at different temperatures.
The calculator uses the API temperature adjustment formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula adjusts the specific gravity reading to what it would be if measured at the standard reference temperature of 60°F.
Details: Accurate specific gravity measurements are crucial in petroleum industry, brewing, and other fields where density measurements are important. Temperature variations can significantly affect density readings.
Tips: Enter the measured specific gravity (dimensionless) and the temperature at which it was measured (°F). The calculator will provide the corrected specific gravity at 60°F.
Q1: Why is 60°F used as the reference temperature?
A: 60°F (15.56°C) is the standard reference temperature for petroleum measurements in the API system.
Q2: Can this formula be used for any liquid?
A: While primarily designed for petroleum products, it can be used for other hydrocarbon liquids with similar thermal expansion properties.
Q3: What's the temperature range for accurate correction?
A: The formula works best between 0-100°F (-18-38°C). Extreme temperatures may require more complex corrections.
Q4: How does temperature affect specific gravity?
A: As temperature increases, most liquids expand and become less dense, resulting in lower specific gravity readings.
Q5: Is there a metric version of this formula?
A: Yes, for Celsius measurements, different coefficients are used to account for the different temperature scale.