BRITISH STANDARD

BS EN 12 : 1994
BS 2000 :
Part 402 : 1994

Methods of test for

Petroleum and its

products
Part 402. Petroleum products - Determination
of Reid vapour pressure - Wet method
(Identical with IP 402/94)

The European Standard EN 12 : 1993 has the status of a

British Standard

- STANDARDS
Y
]\;() (,OPYI1'\(; 11'\ A1\Y I'OHI\[ WITIHlt"T WHI1 fEK PEHl\IlSSIO]\; FIWI\I BSI

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 BS 2000 : Part 402 : 1994

National foreword
This British Standard, having been prepared under the direction of the Petroleum
Standards Policy Committee, was published under the authority of the Standards
Board and comes into effect on 31 March 1994. It is the English language version of
EN 12 : 1993 Petroleum products - Determination of Reid vapour pressure - Wet
method, published by the European Committee for Standardization (CEN).

This British Standard supersedes BS 2000 : Part 69 : 1982, which is withdrawn.

BS 2000 comprises a series of test methods for petroleum and its products that are
published by the Institute of Petroleum (IP) and have been accorded the status of a
British Standard. Each method should be read in conjunction with the preliminary
pages of 'IP Standard methods for analysis and testing of petroleum and related
products' which gives details of the BSIIIP agreement for publication of the series,
provides general information on safety precautions, sampling and other matters, and
lists the methods published as Parts of BS 2000.

The numbering of the Parts of BS 2000 follows that of the corresponding methods
published in 'IP Standard methods for analysis and testing of petroleum and related
products'. Under the terms of the agreement between BSI and the Institute of
Petroleum, BS 2000 : Part 402IBS EN 12 will be published by the IP (in 'Standard
methods for analysis and testing of petroleum and related products' and as a separate
publication). BS 2000 : Part 402 : 1994 is thus identical with IP 402/94.

Compliance with a British Standard does not of itself confer immunity from legal
obligations.

@ The Instirute of Petroleum

& BSI 1994

The following BSI references

relate to the work of this
standard:
Committee reference PTC/I3
Draft for comrnent 74/54733 DC

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 IP~ IP402/94 BSI aSEN12:1993 as 2000 : Pan 402 : 1994

EUROPEAN STANDARD EN 12:1993

NORME EUROPEENNE

EUROpAISCHE NORM September 1993

UDC 665.7-404: 620. 1 : 536. 423.15

Descriptors: Petroleum products. crude oil. determination. vapour pressure. test. wet process

English version .

Petroleum products - Determination of Reid

vapour pressure - Wet method

Produits petroliers - D6termination de la Mineralolerzeugnisse - Bestimmung des

pression vapeur Reid - M6thode humide Reid-Dampfdruckes - Nasses Verfahren

This European Standard was approved by CEN on 1993-05-03. CEN members are bound to comply with the CEN/
CENELEC Internal Regulations which stipulate the conditions for giving this European Standard the status of a national
standard without any alteration.

Up-to-date lists and bibliographical references concerning such national standards may be obtained on application to
the Central Secretariat or to any CEN member.

The European Standards exist in three official versions (English. French. German). A version in any other language
made by translation under the responsibility of a CEN member into its own language and notified to the Central
Secretariat has the same status as the official versions.

CEN members are the national standards bodies of Austria. Belgium. Oenmark. Finland, France. Germany. Greece,
Iceland. Ireland. Italy. Luxembourg. Netherlands. Norway. Portugal. Spain. Sweden. Switzerland and United Kingdom.

CEN
European Committee for Standardization
Comitll Europoon de Normalisation
Europaisches Komitee fur Normung

Central Secretariat: rue de Stassart. 36 B·1050 Brussels

© 1993 Copyright reserved to CEN member. Reg. No. EN 12:1993 E

402.1

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 REID VAPOUR PRESSURE WET METHOD, IP 402

Foreword
This European Standard - Petroleum products - Determination of Reid vapour pressure - Wet method, was prepared by
the technical comminee CEN/TC 19 "Test methods and specifications for petroleum products", the secretariat of which
is held by the Netherlands Standardization Institute (NNI).

In 1967 it was decided by CEN/TC 19 to draft a European method for the determination of the vapour pressure of
petroleum products, based on ASTM D 323 (8 Reid vapour pressure method, RVP).

PrEN 12 was subsequently drafted and submined for preliminary vote. with a positive result in 1974, but was held in
abeyance awaiting developments within ISO. The ISO standard giving the Reid method for the determination of the
vapour pressure of petroleum products (ISO 3007) was published in 1974.

PrEN 12 combined an additional so called "dry" procedure to that stated in ISO 3007. to be applied in case ot gasoline
containing water soluble constituents. In order to establish the necessity and validity of this additional "dry" procedure
for oxygenated fuels, prEN 12 was again held in abeyance.

With the publication of Directive 85/536/EEC on "crude oil saving through the use of oxygenated petrol", it became
necessary to reconsider a "dry" procedure in the RVP method for petrol containing oxygenated compounds.

However. at the 15th and 16th meeting in 1986 and 1987 of CEN/TC 19, it was concluded that "a wet RVP method
would be acceptable as European Standard for the determination of the vapour pressure of petrol containing
oxygenates within the limits as given in Directive 85/536/EEC, Annex, Column A" (Resolution 13 of the 16th meeting).

Consequently a final version of prEN 12 was prepared, based on the work of WG 15. This standard is a modification of
ISO 3007 (1986) but extended to take into account the application to petrol containing oxygenated compounds.

This European Standard shall be given the status of a national standard, either by publication of an identical text or by
endorsement. at the latest by March 1994, and conflicting national standards shall be withdrawn at the latest by March
1994.

In accordance with the CEN/CENELEC Internal Regulations, following countries are bound to implement this European
Standard: Austria. Belgium, Denmark. Finland, France. Germany. Greece. Iceland. Ireland. Italy. Luxembourg.
Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Spain. Sweden, Switzerland and United Kingdom.

402.2

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 REID VAPOUR PRESSURE WET METHOD. IP 402
1 Scope
This European Standard specifies a method for the
determination of the absolute vapour pressure of volatile
crude oil and volatile non-viscous petroleum products.
with vapour pressures below 180 kPa.
This method is applicable to fuels containing
oxygenated compounds up to the limits stated in Annex
A. column A of this standard. The method is also
applicable to fuels containing up to 2.8 % m/m total
oxygen. if due to ethers only.
NOTE 1 For higher OllYVenate contentl netionel standards I118Y
be .pplied until. Europe,n Standard his been developed.
NOTE 2 Bec,uN ttle extemal atmospheric preaure is
count.ected by the atmospheric pressura initially pr_nt in the
air chambe<. the "Reid vapour pressure" iI .ppro.imately the
absolute vapour pressure of the I118terial at 37,B·C in kilopaaeals
(bers). The "Reid vapour pr......,... diff.,. from the true vapour
pressure of the umple owing to slight vlporiZition and the
presence of Wlter Vlpour Ind lir in the confined 'Pice.
2 Principle
The liquid chamber of the vapour pressure apparatus is
filled with the chilled sample and connected to the air
chamber. The apparatus is immersed in a constant
temperature bath (37.8·C ± 0.1 ·C) and is agitated until
equilibrium is reached. The reading of the pressure
indicator is the Reid vapour pressure.
WARNING: This standard calls for the us. of
substances and/or procedures that may be
injurious to health if adequate precautions are
not taken. It refe,.. only to the technical
suitability and in no way absolves the user from
statutory obligations relating to health and
..fety at any stage.
3 Apparatus
The construction of the required apparatus is described
in annex B. This method is based upon the use of
pressure gauges or a pressurized manometer (annex C).
Other pressure indicators may also be used.
Automatic equipment may be used provided it gives
equivalent accuracy and precision as the manual
method. In case of dispute the manual method is the
reference method.
4 Samples and sampling
4.1 General
The general provisions in 4.2 to 4.6 shall apply to all
samples for vapour pressure determinations. The extreme
sensitivity of vapour pressure measurement to losses
through evaporation and to slight changes in
composition is such as to require the utmost precaution
and the most meticulous care in the handling of semples.
4.2 Sampling procedure
Nationally accepted standards shall be used. Water
displacement procedures and the preparation of
composite samples are not permitted.
402.3
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4.3 Sample container
The capacity of the sample container from which the
vapour pressure sample is taken shall not be less than 1 I.
It shall be filled with sample to between 70 % and 80 %
of its capacity.
4.4 Sample handling temperature
The sample container and its contents shall be cooled to
a temperature of 0 'C to 1 'C before the container is
opened.
4.6 Sample transfer
The Reid vapour pressure determination shall be the first
test carried out on the sample. If it is necessary to
transfer samples from larger sample containers or to
withdraw samples for testing. the method of transfer as
shown in figure 1 shall be used.
4.8 Car. of ..mples
Samples shall be put in a cool place as soon as possible
after they have been obtained and held there until the
test has been completed. Samples in leaking containers
shall not be considered for testing but shall be discarded
and new samples obtained.
6 Preparation for test
6.1 Air ..turation of sample in sample container
Place the sample. in its container. into the cooling bath
or refrigerator. With the sample at a temperature of 0 ·C
to 1'C take the container from the cooling bath or
refrigerator. unseal it and examine it for its liquid content.
which shall be between 70 % and 80 % of the container
capaCity. If the container is more than 80 % full. pour out
sample till the container contents are within the 70 % to
80 % range. After the correct liquid content has been
assured. reseal the container. shake it vigorouslv and
return it to the cooling bath or refrigerator. Repeat this
procedure of unsealing momentarily. resealing. shaking
vigorously. and returning to the bath or refrigerator three
times at intervals of not less than 2 min to ensure
complete air saturation.
6.2 Preparation of the liquid chamber
Put the open liquid chamber and the sample transfer
connection in the cooling bath or refrigerator for a
sufficient time (at least 10 min) to allow the chamber
and connection to reach the bath temperature (O·C to
1·C). ensuring no ingress of water to prevent phase
separation.
6.3 Preparation of the air chamber
5.3.1 General
Use the procedure 85 described in 5.3.2 or 5.3.3 (see
note 3).
NOTE 3 In the ~ration of ttle air chamber. the 37.8·C
procedure iI prefened but the ambient tempe<ature procedure
gives equivalent results.
 REID VAPOUR PRESSURE WET METHOD, IP .02

lamp' e
eh;1 , ed
transfer connection

. - - - - --
. - - -- - -
(I) (b)
sampl. contl;n.~ ,.,, rapllced
before transfer by ',mpl. trln,'.r
of .,mpl. conn.c t ion

ch;ll.d Hqu;d
chllllbe~

(c)
rJ (d)
liquid chllllber POI;t;on of .yst..
pl.c.d ov.r liqu;d for ,amp'. tran.f.r
d. H .... ry tub.
Figure 1: Method of transferring the Ample to the liquid chamber from open type containe...

&.3.2 37.8·C Procedure
After purging and rinsing the air chamber and pressure
gauge in accordance with 6.6 connect the gauge to the
air chamber. Immerse the air chamber to at least 25 mm
above its top in the water bath maintained at
37,8'C ± 0,1 'C for not less than 10 min, just before
coupling it to the liquid chamber. Do not remove the air
chamber from the bath until the liquid chamber has been
filled with the sample as described in 6.2.
5.3.3 Ambient temperature procedure
Adjust the air chamber to ambient or other temperature,
which may be determined with an accuracy of at least
0,5 'C in the following manner: After purging and rinSing
the air chamber in eccordance with 6.6 connect the
pressure g8ug6 to the air chamber. Insert the
thermometer into the chamber, supporting it by means of
a loosely fitting (not airtight) stopper in the opening of
the air chamber.
Adjust the position of the thermometer so that it is
aligned as closely as possible with the axis of the air
chamber and with the thermometer bulb located in the
air chamber, about 230 mm from the opening. Leave the
thermometer in position until the temperature reading
has remained constant within 0,5 'C for a period of 5 min
or more just before coupling the air chamber to the liquid
chamber. At this time, record the thermometer reading as
the "initial air temperature".

402.4

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 REID VAPOUR PRESSURE WET METHOD. IP 402
6 Procedure using a pressure gauge
&.1 General
Clause 6 applies to the manual procedure. If automatic
equipment is used follow the manufacturers instructions.
&.2 Sample transfer
With everything in readiness, remove the chilled sample
container from the bath, uncap it and insert the chilled
transfer connection and air tube (see figure 1). Take the
empty chilled liquid chamber and place it over the
sample delivery tube of the transfer connection. Invert
the entire system rapidly so that the liquid chamber is
finally in an upright position with the delivery tube
extending to within 6 mm of the bottom of the liquid
chamber. Fill the liquid chamber to overflowing. lightly
tap the liquid chamber against the work bench to ensure
that the sample is free of air bubbles. If any sample is
displaced, refill the chamber to overflowing.
&.3 Assembly of apparatus
Without delay and as quickly as possible, attach the air
chamber to the liquid chamber. Do not make more than
10 s to complete the assembly of the apparatus after
filling the liquid chamber, using the following sequence
of operations.
6.3.1 Add additional sample to the liquid chamber to
fill to overflowing.
6.3.2 Remove the air chamber from the 37,8 'C water
bath (see 3.5.2).
6.3.3 If the "ambient air procedure" is used (see
5.3.3), record the initial temperature of the air chamber.
6.4 Introduction of the apparatus into the bath
Turn the assembled vapour pressure apparatus upside
down to allow the sample in the liquid chamber to run
into the air chamber and shake vigorously in a direction
parallel to the length of the apparatus. Immerse the
assembled apparatus in the bath, maintained at
37,B'C ± 0,1 'C, in an inclined position so that the
connection of the liquid and the air chamber is below the
water level and may be observed closely for leaks. If no
leaks are observed, immerse the apparatus to at least
25 mm above the top of the air chamber. Observe the
apparatus throughout the test for leaks. If a leak is
detected at any time during the test, the sample shall be
discarded and the test recommenced with a fresh
sample.
NOTE 4 Liquid le.kJ lie more difficult to detect th.n v.pour
leeks because the much·used coupling device il normelly in the
liquid section of the apparatus; give this paniculllr Inention.
&.5 Measurement of vapour pressure
After the assembled vapour pressure apparatus has been
immersed in the bath for 5 min, observe the reading. Tap
the pressure gauge lightly. Withdraw the apparatus from
the bath, invert it, shake it vigorously in a direction
parallel to the length of the apparatus and replace it in
the bath in the shortest possible time to avoid cooling
the apparatus. To ensure equilibrium conditions, repeat
this agitation and pressure reading at least 5 times, at
402.5
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intervals of not less than 2 min and until the last 2
consecutive pressure readings are identical. This
sequence of operations normally requires 20 min to
30 min. Read the final pressure to the nearest 0,25 kPa
for pressure gauges with intermediate graduations of
0,5 kPa and to the nearest 0,5 kPa for gauges with
graduations of 1,0 kPa. Remove the gauge and check its
indicated value against that of the mercury manometer
(B.6). If necessary, correct the gauge reading. Record
this value as the Reid vapour pressure if the 37,8'C
procedure has been used or as "final gauge reading" if
the ambient air procedure has been used (for further
calculation see clause 9).
&.6 Preparation of the apparatus for the next
test
Disconnect the air chamber, liquid chamber and pressure
gauge. Remove trapped fluid from the Bourdon gauge in
the following manner: hold the gauge in the palms of the
hands with the right hand on the face side and the
threaded connection of the gauge forward. Extend the
arms forward and upward at an angle of 45 degrees with
the coupling of the gauge pointing in the same direction.
Swing the arms downwards through an arc of about 135
degrees so that the centrifugal force aids gravity in
removing the trapped liquid. Repeat this operation 3
times to expel all liquid. Purge the pressure gauge by
directing a small jet of air into it's Bourdon tube for at
least 5min.
Thoroughly purge the air chamber of residual sample by
filling it with warm water (above 32 'C) and allowing it
to drain. Repeat this purging at least 5 times. After
thoroughly removing the previous sample from the liquid
chamber, dry the liquid chamber and place it in the
cooling bath or refrigerator for the next test. In the case
of crude oil it is necessary to wash all the equipment
with a volatile solvent, preferably toluene, after each test.
NOTE 5 If the purging of the lir c:hember is done in • bath. be
lUre to avoid small and unnoticeable films of floating sample by
keeping the bonom .nd top openings of the chambers closed a,
they pess through the lurface of the wlter.
7 Procedure for using the
prepressurized mercury manometer
(for vapour pressures below 100 kPa
only)
7.1 Sample transfer
Transfer the sample as described in 6.2.
7.2 Assembly of the apparatus
Assemble the apparatus as described in 6.3 and annex C.
Check that the needle valve on the air chamber is tightly
closed, attach the manometer hose to the top of the air
chamber and follow th8 sequence of operations as
described in 6.3.
7.3 Introduction of the apparatus into the bath
Introduce the apparatus into the bath as described in 6.4.
7.4 Prepressurizing the manometer
After the assembled vapour pressure apparatus has been
immersed in the bath and checked for leaks as described

in 6 4. prepressurize the manometer and flexible hose to
the 8ICpected vapour pressure of the sample (see note 6).
and record this value as. the "initial manometer setting".
While the sample is being brought to equilibrium as
described in 6.5. observe the manometer occasionally to
check for leaks in the manometer assembly. Any change
from the "initial manometer setting" indicates a leak and
the vapour pressure apparatus should be detached and
connected to an alternative manometer.
NOTE 6 For the purpose of prepressurizing and to avoid the
necessity for rerunning determinations. knowledge of the
expected v.pour pressure is very helpful. An indication of the
expected v_pour pressure level should be given. where possible.
on the SImple identifieltion of the I.bel.. It is also helpful to
maintain a list of current v.pour pressures of SImples being
tested on a routine basis.
7.5 Measurement of the vapour preasure
Aher the apparatus has been immersed in the bath for
5 min and if no leaks have been observed. carefully
withdraw the apparatus from the bath.
Without opening the needle valve. invert the apparatus.
shake it vigorously along its length and replace it in the
bath in the shortest possible time to avoid cooling the
apparatus. Repeat this withdrawal and shaking operation
after a further 5 min. again replacing the apparatus in the
bath in the shortest possible time. After not less than
2 min. open the valve and record the manometer reading.
Close the valve. Repeat this operation at intervals of not
less than 2 min until the last 2 consecutive readings are
constant. These operations normally require 20 min to
30 min. Read the final manometer pressure to the nearest
1 kPa and record the value as the "constant manometer
reading" of the sample under test.
7.6 Appraisal of the observations
For accurate results. the "constant manometer reading"
shall be within 10 kPa of the "initial manometer setting".
If the difference is less than this amount proceed as
described in clause 9. If the difference is greater. make a
second determination using the first result as an
approximation for prepressurizing the manometer.
Repeat until the difference is within the prescribed limits
of 10 kPa. each time using a fresh sample.
7.7 Preparation of the apparatus for the next
test
Disconnect the manometer hose. the air chamber and
the liquid chamber. Remove the connector and valve
assembly from the air chamber and. with the valve open.
purge with air for at least 5 min. Purge the air chamber
by filling it with warm water and draining at least 5
times. After removing the previous sample from the
liquid chamber. purge the chamber with cold water. dry
the liquid chamber and place it in the cooling bath or
refrigerator for the next test. In the case of crude oil. it is
necessary to wash all the equipment with a volatile
solvent. preferably toluene. after each test.
8 Precautions
Gross errors are liable to be made in vapour pressure
measurements if the prescribed procedure is not
followed carefully. The following list emphasizes the
importance of strict adherence to the precautions given
in the procedure.
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REID VAPOUR PRESSURE WET METHOD. IP 402
8.1 Checking the pr...ure gaug..
Check all pressure gauges regularly in order to ensure
the precision of results. Ensure that gauges are in a
vertical position before reading them.
8.2 Air saturation of the sample
Open and close the sample container aher the contents
have reached the temperature of 0 ·C to 1 ·C. Shake the
container vigorously to ensure equilibrium of the sample
with the air in the container. Repeat this procedure three
times.
8.3 Checking for leaks
Check the apparatus before and during each test for
liquid and vapour leaks (see 8.1.5 and note 4).
8.4 Sampling
Because initial sampling and the handling of samples
can greatly affect the final results. take great care to
avoid losses through evaporation and slight changes in
composition (see 4 and 6.2). In no case shall any part of
the Reid apparatus be used as the sample container prior
to actually conducting the test.
8.6 Purging the apparatus
Thoroughly purge the pressure gauge. the liquid
chamber and the air chamber to be sure that they are free
of residual sample. This is most conveniently done at the
end of the previous test (see 6.6 and 7.7).
8.6 Coupling the apparatus
Carefully observe the requirements of 6.3.
8.7 Shaking the apparatus
Shake the apparatus "vigorously" as described in 6.5 in
order to ensure equilibrium conditions.
8.8 Temperature control
Ensure that the temperatures of the COOling bath. the
refrigerator and the water bath are correct whenever the
baths are required. Ensure that the temperature of the air
chamber. at the time of coupling with the liquid chamber
has remained constant to within 0,5 ·C for a period of at
least 5min.
9 Calculation
Correction of recorded vapour pressure is necessary if
the "prepressurized mercury manometer method" or "the
ambient temperature procedure" has been used.
9.1 Prepressurizing mercury manometer
correction
The Reid vapour pressure is calculated from the
"constant manometer reading" by applying a correction
for the observed difference between this value and the
"initial manometer setting". Use the corrections given in
table 1. The correction is added if the "constant
manometer reading" is higher than the "initial
manometer setting" and subtracted jf the opposite has
been observed.
402.6
 REID VAPOUR PRESSURE WET METHOD, IP 402

Table 1 - Pr...ure difference between initial 11 Precision

manometer Mtting and constant menometer r..dlng
Difference (kPa) Correction (kPe) The precision of the method. as obtained by statistical
examination of interlaboratory test resUlts, is as follows.
0.0 0.00
1.0 0.40
2.0 0,85 11.1 Repeatability
3.0 1.25
4.0 1.70 The difference between successive test results, obtained
5.0 2.10 by the same operator with the same apparatus under
6.0 2.55
7.0 2.95 constant operating conditions on identical test material,
8.0 3.40 would in the long run in the normal and correct
9.0 3.80 operation of the test method, exceed the value given in
10.0 4.25 table 3 only in one case in twenty.
11.0 4.65
T.ble 3 - Reputebllity
9.2 Ambient temperature procedure correction
Rang. Reputability
(kPa, (kPa,
For the ambient temperature procedure. described in
5.3.3. calculate the Reid vapour pressure of the sample 35 -110 2.1
under test by adding to the "final gauge reading" the
correction given in table 2.
11.2 Reproducibility
For temperatures and pressures outside this range the
correction shall be calculated by means of the following The difference between two single and independent
equation: results. obtained by different operators working in
different laboratories on identical test material. would in
C = (P-P,) (t-37.8) _ (P _P) the long run. in the normal and correct operation of the
273+t 37.1'
test method. exceed the value given in table 4 only in
where one case in twenty.
C - the correction in kPa; Table 4 - Reproducibility

P 0= the barometric pressure. in kPa. at the time of the Renge Reproducibility

test;
(kPe) (kPe,
35 - 110 4.9
P, = the vapour pressure of water. in kPa. at t ·C;
NOTE 7 The pteCiIion dI1I Ibove were developed in· I 1981
... the initial air chamber temperature. in ·c, at the ASTM cooperltive testing progrlmme. involving 25 IlborItoriel
beginning of the test; Ind 12 umplea in duplicate. covering the renee of 34.5 kPI to
110,5 kPI Reid Vlpour ~re.
Pm = the vapour pressure of water. in kPa. at 37.8·C
The precision dill ItIOve were confirmed in 1986 in I CEN
namely 6.56 kPa.
cooperltive testing progremme, involving 31 IlborItcriei end 2..
gllOline IImpl•. with Ind without oxygene_ according to the
Table 2 - Correction of "fine' geuge reeding" ennex A column A.
Initial eir Barometric preaure Funher. I nelionel testing progrlmme esublilhecl thlt the lime
temperature. (kPa) preciaiOn .pplies to gllOlines contlining Ithers to en lmount of
·C
2.8 ~ mlm of 01lYV1n.
SO.O 86.7 93.3 100 101.3 102.7
0 -17 -18 -19 -20 -20 -20
5 -15 -16 -17 -18 -18 -18 12 Test report
10 -13 -14 -15 -15 -15 -15
15 -11 -12 -12 -13 -13 -13 The test report shall contain at least the following
20 -9 -10 -10 -10 -10 -10
25 -7 -7 -7 -8 -8 -8 information:
30 -4 -5 -5 -5 -5 -5
35 -2 -2 -2 -2 -2 -2 a) The type and identification of the product tested;
37.8 0 0 0 0 0 0
40 1 1 1 1 2 2
b) A reference to this European Standard (i.e. EN 12);

c) The result of the test;

10 Expression of results
d) The date of the test;
Report to the nearest 0.25 kPa or 0.5 kPa the final value
recorded in 6.5 or calculated in clause 9 as the Reid e) Any deviation, by agreement or otherwise, from the
vapour pressure in kilopascal with reference to EN 12. specified procedure.

402.7

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 REID VAPOUR PRESSURE WET METHOD. IP 402

ANNEXA
(Normative)

A.1 Definitions atoms are currently acceptable oxygenates for use as

Methanol. ethanol. iso-propyl alcohol (propan-2-ol).
butyl alcohol (butan-1-01). secondary butyl alcohol
(butan-2-01). tertiary butyl alcohol (TBA. 2-methyl
propan-2-01). iso-butyl alcohol (2-methyl-1-propanol).
other mono-alcohols with a final distillation point no
higher than the final distillation point laid down in
national specifications. or. where these do not exist. in
industrial specifications for motor fuels. and methyl
tertiary butyl ether (MBTE. tert-butoxymethane). tertiary
amyl-methyl ether (TAME. 2-methoxy-2-methyl
butane). ethyl tertiary butyl ether (ETBE. 2-ethoxy-2-
methyl propane) and other ethers (R1-0-R2) with a final
distillation point no higher than the final distillation
point laid down in national specifications. or. where
these do not exist. in industrial specifications for motor
fuels. whose molecules containing five or more carbon
substitute fuel components and!or stabilizing agents for
motor fuel. Mixtures of these compounds are also
acceptable.
The term "stabilizing agents" refers to certain of the
substances referred to in the first sub-paragraph added
to assist in the prevention of phase separation of petrol!
substitute fuel component blends.
A.2 Composition of blends
Proportions by volume of organic oxygenate compounds
in fuel blends. not exceeding the limits indicated in
column A. must be permitted.
Proportions of organic oxygenate compounds higher
than those limits may be authorized.

Table A1
A B

Methanol. suitable stabilizing must be added 3%vol 3%vol

Ethanol. stabilizing agents may be necessary 5%vol 5%vol
Iso-propyl alcohol 5 % vol 10%vol
TBA 7%vol 7%vol
Iso-butyl alcohol 7 % vol 10 % vol
Ethers. containing five or more carbon atoms per molecule. (1) 10" vol 16 % vol
Other organic oxygenates defined in section 1 7"vol 10%vol
Mixture of any organic oxygenates (2) defined in section 1 2.5%wt 3.7%wt
oxygen, not exceeding the
individual limits fixed above for
each component.
(1) In accordance with national specifications. or, where these do not exist, industrialspecificetions.
(2) Acetone is authorized up to 0,8 % by volume when it is present as a by-product of the
manufacture of certain organic oxygenate compounds.

NOTE Above clause 11..1 and 11..2 are in line with Oirective 85/536/EEC - Annex.

402.8

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Wed Jul 15 13:52:55 2009
 REID VAPOUR PRESSURE WET METHOD, IP 402
ANNEX B
(Normative)
Apparatus for the Reid vapour pressure test
B.1 Reid vapour pressure apparatus
The apparatus consists of two chambers - an air
chamber (upper section) and a liquid chamber (lower
section) - conforming to the requirements given below.
CAUTION: To maintain the correct volume ratio
between the air chamber and the liquid chamber,
the units shall not be interchanged without
recalibrating to ascertain whether the volume
ratio is within satisfactory limits.
B.1.1 Air chamber
The upper section or air chamber. as shown in figure 2.
shall be a cylindrical vessel (51 ±3) mm in diameter and
(254±3) mm in length. inside dimensions, with the
inner surfaces of the ends slightly sloped to provide
complete drainage from either end when held in a
vertical position. On one end of the air chamber, a
suitable gauge coupling with an internal diameter not
less than 5 mm shall be provided to receive the pressure
gauge. In the other end of the air chamber. an opening of
approximately 13 mm in diameter shall be provided for
coupling with the liquid chamber. Care shall be taken
that the connections to the end openings do not prevent
the chamber from draining completely.
B.1.2 Liquid chamber
The lower section or liquid chamber, as shown in figure
2. shall be a cylindrical vessel of the same inside
diameter as the air chamber and of such volume that the
ratio of the volume of the air chamber to the volume of
the liquid chamber is between the limits of 3.95 to 4.05.
In one end of the liquid chamber, an opening
approximately 13 mm diameter shall be provided for
coupling with the air chamber. The inner surface of the
end containing the coupling member shall be sloped to
provide complete drainage when inverted. The other end
of the liquid chamber shall be completely closed.
B.1.3 Method of coupling air and liquid
chambers
Any method of coupling the air and liquid chambers may
be employed. provided that no liquid is lost during the
coupling operation. that no compression is caused by
the act of coupling. and that the assembly is free from
leaks under the conditions of the test. To avoid
displacement of liquid during the assembly. it is deSirable
that the male fining of a coupling be on the liquid
chamber. To avoid compression of air during the
assembly of a suitable screw coupling, a vent hole may
be used to ensure atmospheric pressure in the air
chamber at the instant of sealing.
Caution: Some commercially available equipment
does not make adequate provision for avoiding
402.9
Copyright by the British Standards Institution
Wed Jul 15 13:52:55 2009
air compression effects. Before employing any
apparatus. it shall be established that the act of
coupling does not compress the air in the air
chamber. This may be accomplished by tightly
stoppering the liquid chamber opening and
assembling the apparatus in the normal way.
utilizing the 0 kPa to 3& kPa gauge. Any
observable pressure increase on the gauge is an
indication that the apparatus does not adequately
meet the specifications of the method. If this
problem is encountered. the manufacturer should
be consulted for remedy.
B.1.4 Volumetric capacity of air and liquid
chambers
In order to ascertain that the volume ratio of the
chambers is between the specified limits of 3,95 and
4.05. measure a quantity of water greater than will be
needed to fill the liquid and air chambers. The liquid
chamber shall be completely filled with water and the
difference between the original volume· and the
remaining volume is the volume of the liquid chamber.
Then. after connecting the liquid and the air chambers,
the air chamber shall be filled to the seat of the gauge
connection with more of the measured water and the
difference in volumes is the volume of the air chamber.
Calculate the ratio of the volumes of the two chambers.
B.1.& Checking for freedom from leaks
Before placing new apparatus in service and as often as
necessary thereafter. the assembled vapour pressure
apparatus shall be checked for freedom from leaks by
filling with air to 700 kPa gauge pressure and completely
immersing in a water bath. Only apparatus which stands
this test without leaking shall be used.
B.2 Pressure gauges
The pressure gauge shall be a Bourdon type spring
gauge of test gauge quality, 100mm to 150mm in
diameter. provided with a nominal 13 mm male thread
connection with a passage way not less than 4.5 mm in
diameter from the Bourdon tube to the atmosphere.
Gauges 90 mm in diameter may be used in the 0 kPa to
35 kPa range. The range and graduations of the pressure
gauge used shall be governed by the vapour pressure of
the sample being tested. as follows:
Table & - Gauges to be used
RVP Sc.le range Maximum Maximum
numbared Intermediate
interval. graduation.
kPa kP. kP. kPa
27,S and
under o to 35 5,0 0,5
20 to 75 o to 100 15 0,5
70 to 180 o to 200 25 1,0
 REID VAPOUR PRESSURE WET METHOD. IP 402

coupl;nq 5 ID min.

Intern.l h.;qht to b. such as to y;.ld

a volume rat;o betw•• n chambers of not
l.a. than 3.95 nor mor~ than 4.05

254 l' 3

coupl;nc; 13 ID

AIR CHAMBER LIQUID CHAMOER

Figura 2: Vapour pr...ur. apparatus

Only accurate gauges shall be kept in use. When the
gauge reading differs from the manometer reading by
more than 1 % of the scale range of the gauge, the gauge
shall be considered inaccurate. For example. the
calibration correction shall be not greater than 0.3 kPa
for a 0 kPa to 35 kPa gauge, or 0,9 kPa for a 0 kPa to 100
kPa gauge.
8.3 Cooling bath or refrigerator
A cooling bath or refrigerator of sufficient capacity shall
be provided for the sample containers and liquid
chambers. Means for maintaining a temperature of O'C
to 1 'C shall be provided. Solid carbon dioxide shall not
be used to cool samples in storage or in the preparation

402.10

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Wed Jul 15 13:52:55 2009
 REID VAPOUR PRESSURE WET METHOD, IP 402

of the air-saturation step. Carbon dioxide is appreciably Scale error max 0,1 ·C
soluble in gasoline and its use has been found to give Expansion chamber
erroneous vapour pressure dat8. permitting heating to 100·C
Total length 270 mm to 280 mm
Stem 00 6,Omm to 7,Omm
1.4 Water bath Bulb length 25mm to 35mm
Bulb 00 not greater than stem
The water bath shall be of such dimensions that the Scale location
vapour pressure apparatus may be immersed to at least distance from bottom
25 mm above the top of the air chamber. Means for of bulb to 34 ·C line 130mm to 150mm
maintaining the bath at a constant temperature of Length of scale range 60mm to 90mm
37,8 ·C±0.1 ·C shall be provided. In order to check this
temperature, the bath thermometer shall be immersed to 8.S.2 Ambient temperature thermometer
the 37 ·C mark throughout the vapour pressure
determination. When the ambient air temperature procedure is
employed. a thermometer, complying with the following
8.6 Thermometers requirements shall be used:

1.6.1 Water bath thermometer length approx 300 mm

range (-40/-35 to +50/+55)·C
For the waterbath a thermometer shall be used to the scale O,5·C divisions
following specifications (IP 23C or ASTM l8C are immersion total
suitable): scale error less than 0,5 ·C

Range 34·C to 42·C 1.6 Mercury manometer

Immersion total
Scale marks A mercury manometer, having a range suitable for
subdivisions 0,1 ·C checking the pressure gauge employed, shall be used.
long lines O,S·C The manometer scale may be graduated in steps of 1 mm
numbers l·C or 0,1 kPa.

402.11

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Wed Jul 15 13:52:55 2009
 REID VAPOUR PRESSURE WET METHOD. IP 402

Annex C
(Normative)
Apparatus for the prepressurized manometer method

C.1 Prepressurized manometer assembly flexible tubing to the manometer assembly, 3 mm

internal diameter, length 760 mm.
A schematic diagram of the manometer assembly is
given in figure 3. The essential components of this C.1.7 Compressed air supply
assembly are as follows:
Compressed, filtered air at 140 kPa pressure.
C.1.1 Mercury manometer

Mercury manometer, direct reading type, length

approximately 1 m, equipped with a check valve, with C.2 Volume of prepressurized manometer
graduated intervals of 0,1 kpa. assembly

C.1.2 Flexible tubing The total volume of the air space in the manometer
assembly, including the mercury well free space.
Product resistant flexible tubing (neoprene or its connections, tubing, up to and including the quick
equivalent), outside diameter 11 mm, inside diameter release couplings, shall be between 120 cm' and
5 mm and length approximately 1 m. 160 cm', in order that a common correction factor may
be applied to all asemblies.
C.1.3 Valve

Valve for attachment to air chamber, 6 mm pipe thread. C.3 Other apparatus

C.1.4 Quick release couplings C.3.' Cooling bath or refrigerator

Quick release couplings for attachment of the vapour As specified in B.3.

pressure apparatus to the manometer assembly. These
shall be of a type that will not accidentally become C.3.2 Water bath
undone when the apparatus is in use, e.g. a screw fitting.
As specified in B.4.
C.1.S Micrometering valves
C.3.3 Thermometers
Micrometering valves, for metering air to the manometer
leg. As specified in B.S.

C.1.6 Copper or stainless steel tubing C.3.4 Mercury manometer

Copper or stainless steel tubing, for connection of the As specified in B.6.

402.12

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 REID VAPOUR PRESSURE WET METHOD. IP 402

<---header attached to menometer

lupport for r;9id;ty

......
' ... coppe~ tube 3 10

(--flexibl. tubing (neoprene or

equivalent), 11 00 )( 5 1.0

direct read;ng
lllercury
INInometer
~"eedl. valve

vapour pre.sure
merC\,Iry level-' apparatus

I
/
- ---- I

f;1t.rl'd I;r - 140 kPI----·!

•

All dimensions in millimetr ••

Figur. 3: Pr.pr...uriz.d ....mbIV

402.13

Copyright by the British Standards Institution

Wed Jul 15 13:52:55 2009
 BS 2000 Series

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THE INSTITUTE
OF PETROLEUM

prC/13

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