5.1 Density is a fundamental physical property that can be used in conjunction with other properties to characterize both the light and heavy fractions of petroleum and to assess the quality of crude oils.

5.2 Determination of the density or relative density of petroleum and its products is necessary for the conversion of measured volumes to volumes at the standard temperatures of 15 °C.

5.3 The determination of densities at the elevated temperatures of 40 °C and 100 °C is particularly useful in providing the data needed for the conversion of kinematic viscosities in mm²/s (centistokes) to the corresponding dynamic viscosities in mPa·s (centipoises).

1.1 This test method covers two procedures for the measurement of the density of materials which are fluid at the desired test temperature. Its application is restricted to liquids of vapor pressures below 80 kPa (600 mm Hg) and viscosities below 40 000 mm²/s (cSt) at the test temperature. The method is designed for use at any temperature between 20 °C and 100 °C. It can be used at higher temperatures; however, in this case the precision section does not apply.

Note 1: For the determination of density of materials which are fluid at normal temperatures, see Test Method D1217.

1.2 This test method provides a calculation procedure for converting density to specific gravity.

1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.

1.4 WARNING—Mercury has been designated by many regulatory agencies as a hazardous material that can cause central nervous system, kidney and liver damage. Mercury, or its vapor, may be hazardous to health and corrosive to materials. Caution should be taken when handling mercury and mercury containing products. See the applicable product Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) for details and EPA’s website—http://www.epa.gov/mercury/faq.htm—for additional information. Users should be aware that selling mercury and/or mercury containing products in your state or country may be prohibited by law.

1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.