API TECHNICAL DATA BOOK – 9th Edition

API TECHNICAL DATA BOOK

9th Edition

CHAPTER 1

GENERAL DATA

Revised Chapter 1 to First Edition (1966), Second Edition (1970), Third Edition
(1977), Fourth Edition (1982), Fifth Edition (1992), Fifth Edition (1992), and
Seventh Edition (2005), Eighth Edition (2006), Ninth Edition (2013)

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 API TECHNICAL DATA BOOK – 9th Edition

Table of Contents
Chapter 1 – General Data
(2006)
Page
1-0 Introduction............................................................................................................................................. 1-1

1A Fundamental Constants and Conversion Factors .......................................................................... 1-2

1A1 Fundamental Constants ............................................................................................................... 1-2
Table 1A1.1 Fundamental Constants ........................................................................... 1-2
1A2 Conversion Factors ...................................................................................................................... 1-4
Table 1A2.1 Length Conversions................................................................................. 1-4
Table 1A2.2 Area Conversions .................................................................................... 1-4
Table 1A2.3 Volume Conversions ............................................................................... 1-5
Table 1A2.4 Liquid Volume Conversions.................................................................... 1-5
Table 1A2.5 Mass Conversions ................................................................................... 1-6
Table 1A2.6 Density Conversions................................................................................ 1-6
Table 1A2.7 Pressure Conversions .............................................................................. 1-7
Table 1A2.8 Flow Conversions .................................................................................... 1-7
Table 1A2.9 Kinematic Viscosity Conversions ........................................................... 1-8
Table 1A2.10 Absolute Viscosity Conversions.............................................................. 1-8
Table 1A2.11 Energy Conversions ................................................................................ 1-9
Table 1A2.12 Power Conversions ................................................................................ 1-10
Table 1A2.13 Specific Energy Conversions ................................................................ 1-10
Table 1A2.14 Specific Energy per Degree Conversions .............................................. 1-11
Table 1A2.15 Heat Flux Conversions .......................................................................... 1-11
Table 1A2.16 Heat Transfer Coefficient Conversions ................................................. 1-12
Table 1A2.17 Thermal Conductivity Conversions ....................................................... 1-12

1B Letter Symbols Used in Chemical Engineering ............................................................................. 1-13

1B1 Letter Symbols for the Principal Concepts Used in Chemical Engineering ............................ 1-14
Table 1B1.1 Letter Symbols for the Principal Concepts Used in Chemical
Engineering ............................................................................................ 1-14
Table 1B1.2 Alphabetical Index of Symbols Used in Chemical Engineering............ 1-16

1C Property Definitions ............................................................................................................................. 1-19

1C1 Primary Properties ..................................................................................................................... 1-20
1C2 Secondary Properties ................................................................................................................. 1-24
1C3 Secondary Properties – Hydrocarbons Only ............................................................................. 1-26

Bibliography ........................................................................................................................................... 1-27

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 API TECHNICAL DATA BOOK – 9th Edition

1-0 Introduction

Chapter 1 – General Data

(2006)
Almost all the procedures in the API Technical definitions. Other pertinent information on the
Data Book require pure component physical properties is given in the Pure Component Properties
properties. This chapter lists a collection of properties program detailed in Chapter 16 with footnotes for the
for many hydrocarbons and selected nonhydrocarbons data source and reference.
that are provided in electronic database format as In the Seventh Edition (2005), 39 sulfur containing
described in the Software Applications Chapter 16. hydrocarbons were added to the API Technical Data
The compounds and the properties that were selected Book for use in designing and upgrading refinery
for inclusion in the API Technical Data Book are processes to further reduce sulfur emissions and
those judged most useful for petroleum refining and improve air quality. Additionally, the pure
associated industries. For API components that are component properties were updated based on the
also covered in the AIChE DIPPR® Database, the 2004 DIPPR Database (Public Release). In the final
same data is reported in the API Technical Data Book release of the Eighth Edition (version 8.2 - 2008), the
and the DIPPR Database for properties covered by pure component properties were updated based on the
DIPPR. Further information on physical properties 2008 DIPPR Database (Public Release). In the Ninth
may be found in the Design Institute for Physical Edition, the pure component properties were updated
Properties (DIPPR) Data Compilation: Tables of based on the 2009 DIPPR Database (Public Release).
Properties of Pure Compounds (8, 52, 53). The
majority of data for the compounds in this chapter AIChE DIPPR ® Database
were taken from the following sources (in order of The mission of the Design Institute for Physical
priority): Properties (DIPPR) is to develop the world's best
source of critically evaluated thermophysical and
1. DIPPR Compilation (8, 52, 53) environmental property data. Data and estimation
2. GPA 2145-94 (13) methods developed in DIPPR projects are used by
3. API Monograph Series (1-3) leading chemical, petroleum and pharmaceutical
4. TRC Tables (32-34, 39-47) companies throughout the world. For more
5. Previous API Technical Data Book - Petroleum information on DIPPR membership and benefits,
Refining (9). please contact:

Unless otherwise indicated, predictions of

Joseph E. L. Rogers
hydrocarbon data were made using the current Data AIChE
Book procedures. Predictions of nonhydrocarbon 3 Park Avenue
data were made using DIPPR Compilation (8) New York, NY 10016-5901
procedures. Tel: 212 591 7727
Fax: 212 591 889
The Fundamental Constants and Conversion jorogers@aiche.org
Factors section contains a list of constants and lists
of conversion factors. The Letter Symbols Used in
Chemical Engineering section provides a list of letter (DIPPR is registered trademark of AIChE and is used
symbols with their definitions. The Property by permission)
Definitions section enumerates the property

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 API TECHNICAL DATA BOOK – 9th Edition

1A Fundamental Constants and Conversion Factors

1A1 Fundamental Constants

Table 1A1.1 - Fundamental Constants

(1987)
Basic Constants
Name Symbol Value Units
Velocity of light (vacuum) c 2.997925 × 108 m per sec
Avogadro constant NA 6.02214 ×1023 molecules per g-mole
Planck constant h 6.6261 × 10–27 (ergs) (sec) per molecule
Faraday constant F 96,485.3 coulombs per mole
Absolute temperature of the "ice" point:
0 °C T 0C 273.15 K
32 °F T32 F 491.67 deg R
Pressure-volume product for 1 mole of
 pV T
p0
a gas at 0 °C (32 °F) and zero pressure 0 oC
(ideal gas) 2,271.11 joules per g-mole
22.4141 (liters) (atm) per g-mole
2.27111 × 106 (m3) (Pa) per kg-mole
359.039 (ft3) (atm) per lb-mol
5,276.42 (ft3) (psia) per lb-mol

Derived Constants
Name Symbol Value Units
F
Electronic charge e 1.60218 × 10–19 coulombs
NA

Gas constant 8.3145 joules per (g-mole) (K)

 pV T
p 0 1.9872 g-cal per (g-mole) (K)
R 0oC 1.9859 Btu per (lb-mole) (R)
T0 o C 82.058 (cm3) (atm) per (g-mole) (K)
1,545.4 ft-lb [force] per (lb-mole) (R)
10.732 (psia) (ft3) per (lb-mole) (R)
62.364 (mm Hg) (liter) per (g-mole) (K)
0.084786 (kg per cm2) (liter) per (g-mole) (K)
0.73024 (atm) (ft3) per (lb-mole) (R)
554.99 (mm Hg) (ft3) per (lb-mole) (R)
8,314.5 (Pa) (m3) per (kg-mol) (K)
R
Boltzmann constant k 1.38066 ×10–16 ergs per (molecule) (K)
NA

Second radiation constant hc 1.43877 cm-C

C2 
k
Defined Constants
Name Symbol Value Units
Standard gravity go 980.665 cm per sec per sec
32.174 ft per sec per sec
Standard atmosphere atm 1,013,250 dynes per cm2
14.696 psia
101,325 pascals
Standard millimeter of mercury pressure mm Hg 1/760 atm
Calorie (thermochemical) cal 4.1840 joules
4.1840 × 107 ergs
Calorie (International Steam Tables) calIT; I.T. cal 4.1868 joules
Liter l 1,000 cm3

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 API TECHNICAL DATA BOOK – 9th Edition

TABLE 1A1.1 (Continued)

(1987)

Conversion Factors-Engineering Units Vs. Metric Units

Name Value Units

1 in = 2.54 cm Definition: in = U.S. inch

1 ft = 30.48 cm Definition: U.S. foot (1 ft = 12 in)

1 lb = 453.59237 g Definition: lb = avoirdupois pound

1 gal = 231 cu in Definition: gal = U.S. gallon

= 0.133680555 cu ft
= 3,785.43449 cu cm
= 3.785412 liters

1 I.T. cal = 1/860 int watt-hr Definition: I.T. = International Steam

= 4.18674 joules Tables
= 4.18605 int joules
=1.000654 cal Definition: cal = thermochemical calorie

1 Btu/ lb = 1/1.8 I.T. cal per g Definition: Btu = I.T. British thermal unit

1 Btu = 251.996 I.T. cal

= 1,055.040 joules
= 1,054.866 int joules
= 0.293018 int watt-hr
= 252.161 cal Definition: cal = thermochemical calorie
= 0.293067 abs watt-hr

1 hp = 550 ft-lb [force] per sec

= 745.701 watts (abs)
= 745.578 int watts

1 erg = 1 dyne-cm

Mathematical Constants

π = 3.14159
e (base of natural logarithms) = 2.71828
natural logarithm (base e), loge 10 =1n 10 = 2.30258509

Temperature Conversions

C = (F – 32)/1.8
F = 1.8 C + 32
K = C + 273.15
R = F + 459.67
R = 1.8 K

Where:

C = degrees centigrade
F = degrees Fahrenheit
K = kelvins
R = degrees Rankine
Above values taken from or derived from those given in Natl. Bur. Std. (U.S.), CODATA Bull. No. 63 (1986).

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 API TECHNICAL DATA BOOK – 9th Edition

1A2 Conversion Factors

Table 1A2.1 – Length Conversions

(1987)

To convert the numerical value of a property expressed in one of the units in the left-hand column of the unit
conversion tables to the numerical value expressed in one of the units in the top row of the table, multiply the former
value by the factor in the block common to both units.

Milli- Centi- Kilo-

Units Inches Feet Yards Miles Microns Meters
meters meters meters
1.5783 2.5400
Inches 1 0.083333 0.027778 25400 25.4 2.54 0.0254
× 10–5 × 10–5
1.8939 3.0480 3.0480
Feet 12 1 0.33333 304.8 30.48 0.3048
× 10–4 × 105 × 10–4
5.6818 9.144 9.1440
Yards 36 3 1 914.4 91.44 0.9144
× 10–4 × 105 × 10–4
1.6093 1.6093 1.6093 1.6093
Miles 63360 5280 1760 1 1.6093
× 109 × 106 × 105 ×103
3.9370 3.2808 1.0936 6.2137
Microns 1 10–3 10–4 10–6 10–9
× 10–5 × 10–6 × 10–6 × 10–10
3.9370 3.2808 1.0936 6.2137
Millimeters 103 1 0.1 0.001 10–6
× 10–2 ×10–3 × 10–3 × 10–7
6.2137
Centimeters 0.39370 0.032808 0.010936 104 10 1 0.01 10–5
× 10–6
6.2137
Meters 39.370 3.2808 1.0936 106 1000 100 1 0.001
× 10–4
3.9370 3.2808 1.0936
Kilometers 0.62137 109 106 105 1000 1
× 104 ×103 × 103

Table 1A2.2 - Area Conversions

(1987)

Square Square Square

Units Square Feet Square Yards Acres
Inches Centimeters Meters
6.944 7.7160 1.5942 6.4516
Square Inches 1 6.4516
× 10–3 × 10–4 × 10–7 × 10–4
2.2957 9.2903
Square Feet 144 1 0.11111 929.03
× 10–5 × 10–2
2.0661
Square Yards 1296 9 1 8361.3 0.83613
× 10–4
6.2726 4.0469 4.0469
Acres 43560 4840 1
× 106 × 107 × 103
Square 1.0764 1.1960 2.4711
0.15500 1 10–4
Centimeters ×10–3 × 10–4 × 10–8
2.4711
Square Meters 1550 10.764 1.196 104 1
× 10–4

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 API TECHNICAL DATA BOOK – 9th Edition

Table 1A2.3 - Volume Conversions

(1987)

Units Cubic Inches Cubic Feet Cubic Yards Cubic Centimeters Cubic Meters

5.7870 2.1433 1.6387

Cubic Inches 1 16.387
× 10–4 × 10–5 ×10–5
3.7037 2.8317 2.8317
Cubic Feet 1728 1
× 10–2 × 104 ×10–2
7.6455
Cubic Yards 46656 27 1 0.76455
×105
6.1023 3.5315 1.3080
Cubic Centimeters 1 10–6
× 10–2 × 10–5 × 10–6

Cubic Meters 61023 35.315 1.308 106 1

Table 1A2.4 –Liquid Volume Conversions

(1987)

Fluid Imperia Cubic

Quarts Gallons Barrels Cubic Cubic Cubic
Units Ounces l Liters Centi-
(U.S.) (U.S.) (Oil) Inches Feet Meters
(U.S.) gallons meters
Fluid
7.1825 6.5053 1.8601 1.0444 0.02957 29.57 2.9574
Ounces 1 0.03125 1.8047
× 10–3 × 10–3 × 10–4 × 10–3 4 4 × 10–5
(U.S.)
Quarts 5.924 946.3 9.4635
32 1 0.25 0.20817 57.75 0.03342 0.94635
(U.S.) × 10–3 5 × 10–4
Gallons 0.02380 3785. 3.7854
128 4 1 0.83267 231 0.13368 3.7854
(U.S.) 9 4 × 10–3
Imperial 1.2009 0.02859 4546. 4.5461
153.72 4.8038 1 277.42 0.16054 4.5461
gallons 5 4 1 × 10–3
1.589
Barrels
5376 168 42 34.973 1 9702 5.6146 158.99 9 0.15899
(Oil)
× 105
Cubic 0.01731 4.3290 3.6047 1.0307 5.7870 0.01638 16.38 1.6387
0.55411 1
Inches 6 × 10–3 × 10–3 × 10–4 × 104 7 7 × 10–5
0.02831
Cubic Feet 957.51 29.922 7.4805 6.2289 0.17811 1728 1 28.317 28317
7
0.2641 6.2898 0.03531
Liters 33.814 1.0567 0.21997 61.024 1 1000 1 × 10–3
7 × 10–3 5
Cubic
0.03381 1.0567 2.6417 2.1997 6.2898 0.06102 3.5315
Centimeter 0.001 1 1×10–6
4 × 10–3 × 10–4 × 10–4 × 10–6 4 × 10–5
s
Cubic
33814 1.056.7 264.17 219.97 6.2898 61024 35.315 1000 1×106 1
Meters

Note: According to ASME Guides SI-1 (22) and SI-4 (23), 1 ml = 1 cc

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 API TECHNICAL DATA BOOK – 9th Edition

Table 1A2.5 - Mass Conversions

(1987)

Ounces Pounds Ounces Pounds Tons Tons Metric

Units Grains Grams Kilograms
(Avoir)* (Avoir)* (Troy)† (Troy)† (Short)‡ (Long)§ Tons

2.2857 1.4284 2.0833 1.7361 7.1428 6.3776 6.4799 6.4799

Grains 1 0.064799
× 10–3 ×10–4 × 10–3 × 10–4 × 10–8 × 10–8 × 10–5 × 10–8

Ounces 3.125 2.7902 2.8350

437.5 1 0.0625 0.91146 0.075955 28.35 0.02835
(Avoir)* × 10–5 × 10–5 × 10–5

Pounds 4.4643 4.5359

7000 16 1 14.583 1.2153 5 × 10–4 453.59 0.45359
(Avoir)* × 10–4 × 10–4

Ounces 3.4285 3.0612 3.1103

480 1.0971 0.068571 1 0.083333 31.103 0.031103
(Troy)† × 10–5 × 10–5 ×10–5

Pounds 4.1143 3.6735 3.7324

5760 13.166 0.82286 12 1 373.24 0.37324
(Troy)† × 10–4 × 10–4 × 10–4

Tons 1.400 9.0718 9.0718

32000 2000 29167 2430.6 1 0.89286 0.90718
(Short)‡ × 107 ×105 × 102

Tons 1.5680 1.0160 1.0160

35840 2240 32667 2722.2 1.12 1 1.016
(Long)§ × 107 ×106 ×103

2.2046 2.6792 1.1023 9.8421

Grams 15.432 0.035274 0.032151 1 38628 10–6
× 10–3 × 10–3 × 10–6 × 10–7

1.5432 1.1023 9.8421

Kilograms 35.274 2.2046 32.151 2.6792 1000 1 10–3
× 104 × 10–3 × 10–4

Metric 1.5432 3.5274 2.2046 3.2151 2.6792

1.1023 0.98421 106 1000 1
Tons × 107 × 104 × 103 × 104 ×103
* Used for ordinary commodities. ‡ Common in the United States and Canada.
† Used for drugs, jewels, precious metals. § Common in England.

Table 1A2.6 – Density Conversions

(1987)

g . lb . lb lb . kg
Units
cm3 in3 ft3 gal (US) m3

g .
1 0.036127 62.428 8.3454 1000
cm3

lb .
27.68 1 1728 231 27680
in3

lb 5.7870
0.016018 1 0.13368 16.018
ft3 × 10–4

lb . 4.3290
0.11983 7.4805 1 119.83
gal (US) × 10–3

kg. 3.6127
0.001 0.062428 0.0083454 1
m3 × 10–5

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 API TECHNICAL DATA BOOK – 9th Edition

Table 1A2.7 – Pressure Conversions

(1987)

Units dyns Atmos- kg . mm Hg* in. Hg* lbf ft H2O

Bars Pascals
cm2 pheres cm2 at 0 C at 32 F in2 at 39.2 F
dyns 0.986923 1.01972 7.5006 2.9530 1.4504 3.3457
1 10–6 0.10000
cm2 × 10–6 × 10–6 × 10–4 × 10–5 × 10–5 × 10–5

Bars 106 1 0.986923 1.01972 750.06 29.53 14.504 33.457 1 × 105

1.01325 1.01325
Atmospheres 1.01325 1 1.0332 760 29.921 14.696 33.9
× 106 × 105
kg .
980670 0.98067 0.96784 1 735.56 28.959 14.223 32.809 98066.5
cm2
1.3332 1.31579 1.3595
mm Hg* at 0 C 1333.2 1 0.03937 0.019337 0.044605 133.32
× 10–3 × 10–3 × 10–3

in. Hg at 32 F 33864 0.033864 0.033421 0.03453 25.4 1 0.49116 1.133 3386.4

lbf
68.948 0.068948 0.068046 0.070307 51.715 2.036 1 2.3066 6894.7
in2

ft H2O at 39.2 F 29889 0.029889 0.029499 0.030479 22.419 0.88265 0.43352 1 2988.98

9.86923 1.01972 7.5006 2.9530 1.4504 3.3456

Pascals 10.000 1 ×10–5 1
× 10–6 × 10–5 ×10–3 × 10–4 × 10–4 × 10–4
* 1 Torr = 1 mm Hg.

Table 1A2.8 – Flow Conversions

(1987)

gal (US) gal (US) ft3 . ft3 . bbl (42) bbl (42) liters m3
Units
min hr sec min hr day sec hr

gal (US) 2.2280

1 60 0.13368 1.4286 34.286 0.063090 0.22712
min ×10–3
gal (US) 3.7133 2.2280 1.0515 3.7854
0.0167 1 0.023810 0.57143
hr × 10–5 ×10–3 ×10–3 × 10–3

ft3 . 2.6930 1.5388

448.83 1 60 641.20 28.317 101.94
sec ×104 × 104
ft3 .
7.4805 448.83 0.016667 1 10.686 256.47 0.47195 1.6990
min
bbl (42) 1.5596
0.7000 42 0.093576 1 24 0.044163 0.15899
hr × 10–3
bbl (42) 6.4984 3.8990 1.8401 6.6245
0.029167 1.7500 0.041667 1
day ×10–5 × 10–3 × 10–3 × 10–3

liters
15.850 951.02 0.035315 2.1189 22.643 543.44 1 3.6
sec

m3
4.4029 264.17 0.0098096 0.58858 6.2898 150.96 0.27778 1
hr

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 API TECHNICAL DATA BOOK – 9th Edition

Table 1A2.9 - Kinematic Viscosity Conversions

(1987)

2
ft2 ft2 m2 cm
Units (Stokes) Centistokes
hr sec hr
sec
ft2
1 2.778 × 10–4 9.290 ×10–2 0.2581 25.81
hr

ft2
3600 1 3.345 x 102 929 9.29 × 104
sec

m2
10.76 2.990 × 10–3 1 2.778 277.8
hr
2
cm
(Stokes) 3.875 1.076 × 10–3 0.36 1 100
sec

Centistokes 3.875×10–2 1.076 ×10–5 3.600 ×10–3 0.01 1

Table 1A2.10 - Absolute Viscosity Conversions

(1987)

lb . lb . lbf-sec kg .
Units Centipoise
sec-ft hr-ft ft2 hr-m

lb .
1 3600 0.03108 1488 5357
sec-ft

lb .
2.778 × 10–4 1 8.634 × 10–6 0.4134 1.488
hr-ft

lbf-sec
32.17 1.158 × 105 1 47880 1.724 × 105
ft2

Centipoise 6.720 × 10–4 2.419 2.089 × 10–5 1 3.600

kg .
1.867 ×10–4 0.672 5.801 ×10–6 0.2778 1
hr-m
* 1 poise = 100 centipoises = 1 g/sec-cm. Kinematic viscosity, in centistokes, times density (g/cm3) at same
temperature equals centipoises.

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 API TECHNICAL DATA BOOK – 9th Edition

Table 1A2.11 - Energy Conversions

(1987)

Internati- British Absolute Horsep- Foot- Liter

Absolute I. T. ft3-lbf Centigrade
Units onal Calories Thermal Kilowatt- ower- Pounds Atmo-
Joules Calories in2 Heat Units
Joules Units Hours Hours [Force] spheres

Absolute 9.4783 2.7778 3.7251 5.1220 9.8690 5.2657

1 0.99984 0.23901 0.23885 0.73756
Joules × 10–4 × 10–7 ×10–7 ×10–3 ×10–3 ×10–4
International 9.4799 2.7782 3.7257 5.1228 9.8706 5.2666
1.0002 1 0.23905 0.23889 0.73768
Joules × 10–4 × 10–7 × 10–7 × 10–3 ×10–3 × 10–4
3.9657 1.1622 1.5586 2.1430 4.1292 2.2032
Calories 4.184 4.1833 1 0.99935 3.0860
× 10–3 × 10–6 × 10–6 × 10–2 × 10–2 × 10–3
3.9683 1.1630 1.5596 2.1444 4.1319 2.2046
I. T. Calories 4.1867 4.1861 1.0007 0 3.0880
× 10–3 × 10–6 × 10–6 × 10–2 × 10–2 ×10–3

British
2.9307 3.9301
Thermal 1055.0 1054.9 252.16 252.00 1 778.16 5.4039 10.412 0.55556
× 10–4 × 10–4
Units

Absolute
3.600 3.5994 8.6042 8.5986 2.6552
Kilowatt- 3412.2 1 1.341 18439 35528 1895.7
× 106 × 106 ×105 × 105 × 106
Hours

Horsepower- 2.6845 2.6841 6.4162 6.4120 1.9800

2544.5 0.7457 1 13750 26494 1413.6
Hours × 106 × 106 ×105 ×105 × 106
Foot-Pounds 1.2851 3.7662 5.0505 6.9444 1.3381 7.1394
1.3558 1.3556 0.32405 0.32384 1
[Force] × 10–3 × 10–7 × 10–7 × 10–3 ×10–2 ×10–4

ft3-lbf 5.4233 7.2727

195.24 195.21 46.663 46.633 0.18505 144 1 1.9268 0.10281
in2 ×10–5 × 10–5

Liter 2.8147 3.7745 5.3356

101.33 101.31 24.218 24.202 0.096042 74.735 5.1900 1
Atmospheres × 10–5 × 10–5 × 10–2
Centigrade 5.2752 7.0741
1899.1 1898.8 453.89 453.59 1.8 1400.7 9.7269 18.742 1
Heat Units × 10–4 × 10–4

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 API TECHNICAL DATA BOOK – 9th Edition

Table 1A2.12 - Power Conversions

(1987)

Btu Btu ft-lb ft-lb Horse- Metric watts cal I.T. cal joules (abs)
Units
min hr sec min power Horsepower (Absolute) sec sec sec

Btu
1 60.00 12.969 778.16 0.023580 0.023908 17.584 4.2027 4.1999 17.584
min

Btu 3.9301 3.9846

0.016667 1 0.21615 12.969 0.29307 0.070045 0.069999 0.29307
hr × 10–4 × 10–4

ft-lb 7.7105 1.8182 1.8434

4.6263 1 60.00 1.3558 0.32405 0.32384 1.3558
sec × 10–2 ×10–3 × 10–3

ft-lb 1.2851 3.0303 3.0723 5.4008 5.3973

0.77105 0.016667 1 0.022597 0.022597
min × 10–3 × 10–5 × 10–5 ×10–3 ×10–3

Horsepower 42.408 2544.5 550 33000 1 1.0139 745.70 178.23 178.11 745.70

Metric
41.828 2509.7 542.48 32549 0.98632 1 735.50 175.79 175.67 735.50
Horsepower

watts 1.3410 1.3596

0.056869 3.4122 0.73756 44.254 1 0.23901 0.23885 1
(absolute) × 10–3 × 10–3

cal 5.6108 5.6886

0.23794 14.277 3.0860 185.16 4.1840 1 0.99935 4.1840
sec × 10–3 × 10–3

I.T. cal 5.6145 5.6924

0.23810 14.286 3.0880 185.28 4.1867 1.0007 1 4.1867
sec × 10–3 × 10–3

joules (abs) 1.3410 1.3596

0.056869 3.4122 0.73756 44.254 1 0.23901 0.23885 1
sec ×10–3 × 10–3

Notes:
One boiler horsepower = 33471.9 Btu per hr.
One standard commercial ton of refrigeration = 288000 Btu per day.

Table 1A2.13 - Specific Energy Conversions

(1987)

joules (abs) joules (int) cal I.T. cal Btu

Units
g g g g lb

joules (abs)
1 0.99984 0.23901 0.23885 0.42993
g
joules (int)
1.0002 1 0.23905 0.23889 0.43000
g
cal
4.1840 4.1833 1 0.99935 1.7988
g
I.T. cal
4.1867 4.1861 1.0007 1 1.8
g
Btu
2.3260 2.3256 0.55592 0.55556 1
lb

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 API TECHNICAL DATA BOOK – 9th Edition

Table 1A2.14 – Specific Energy per Degree Conversions

(1987)

joules (abs) joules (int) cal . I.T. cal Btu .

Units
g-K g-K g-K g-K lb-F
joules (abs)
1 0.99984 0.23901 0.23885 0.23885
g-K
joules (int)
1.0002 1 0.23905 0.23889 0.23889
g-K
cal .
4.1840 4.1833 1 0.99935 0.99935
g-K
I.T. cal
4.1867 4.1861 1.0007 1 1
g-K
Btu .
4.1867 4.1861 1.0007 1 1
lb-F

Table 1A2.15 – Heat Flux Conversions

(1987)

Btu . cal . kg-cal watts (abs) joules (abs)

Units
hr-ft2 sec-cm2 hr-m2 cm2 sec-m2

Btu .
1 7.5397 × 10–5 2.714 3.1546 ×10–4 3.1546
hr-ft2
cal .
13263 1 36000 4.1840 41840
sec-cm2
kg-cal
0.3684 2.7778 × 10–5 1 1.1622 × 10–4 1.1622
hr-m2
watts (abs)
3170.0 0.23901 8604.2 1 10000
cm2
joules (abs)
0.31700 2.3901×10–5 0.86042 1×10–4 1
sec-m2

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 API TECHNICAL DATA BOOK – 9th Edition

Table 1A2.16 – Heat Transfer Coefficient Conversions

(1987)

Btu . cal . kg-cal . watts (abs) joules (abs)

Units
hr-ft2-F sec-cm2-K hr-m2-K cm2-K sec-m2-K

Btu .
1 1.3571 × 10–4 4.8857 5.6783 × 10–4 5.6783
hr-ft2-F

cal .
7368.4 1 36000 4.184 41840
sec-m2-K

kg-cal .
0.20468 2.7778 × 10–5 1 1.1622 × 10–4 1.1622
hr-m2-K

watts (abs)
1761.1 0.23901 8604.2 1 10000
cm2-K

joules (abs)
0.17611 2.3901 ×10–5 0.86042 1 × 10–4 1
sec-m2-K

Table 1A2.17 – Thermal Conductivity Conversions

(1987)

Btu . Btu . cal . kg-cal . watts (abs) joules (abs)

Units
hr-ft2-F per in hr-ft2-F per ft sec-cm2-K per cm hr-m2-K per m .cm2-K per cm .sec-m2-K per m

Btu .
1 0.08333 3.4471 × 10–4 0.12410 1.4423 × 10 0.14423
hr-ft2-F per in

Btu .
12.000 1 4.1366 × 10–3 1.4892 0.017307 1.7307
hr-ft2-F per ft

cal .
2901.0 241.75 1 360 4.184 418.40
sec-cm2-K per cm

kg-cal .
8.0582 0.67152 2.7778 × 10–3 1 0.011622 1.1622
hr-m2-K per m

watts (abs)
693.35 57.779 0.23901 86.042 1 100
.cm2-K per cm

joules (abs) .
6.9335 0.5778 2.3901 × 10–3 0.86042 0.01 1
sec-m2-K per m

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 API TECHNICAL DATA BOOK – 9th Edition

1B Letter Symbols Used in Chemical Engineering

(1987)

The letter symbols for the concepts most widely used in chemical engineering are listed in tables 1B1.1 (by
category) and 1B1.2 (alphabetically). A letter symbol is a single letter used to represent a primary concept for a
physical quantity, and it may be used with a subscript or superscript. A subscript may designate a place in space
or time, a system of units, or a constant or reference value. A superscript may designate a dimensionless form, a
reference or equilibrium value, a sequence in time or space, or a mathematical identification (average value,
derivative, tensor index).
These lists have been adapted from the official tables of the American Institute of Chemical Engineers and of
the American National Standards Institute. Suitable modifications have been made in the units to conform with
the editorial policies of the American Petroleum Institute. Several additions have been made for symbols used
frequently in this book. Listing is alphabetical by concept within each category. Illustrative units or definitions are
supplied where appropriate.

Greek Alphabet

A α Alpha I ι Iota P ρ Rho

B β Beta K κ Kappa  σ Sigma
Γ γ Gamma  λ Lambda  τ Tau
 δ,  Delta M μ Mu  υ Upsilon
E ε Epsilon N ν Nu  φ Phi
Z ζ Zeta  ξ Xi  χ Chi
H η Eta O ο Omicron  ψ Psi
 θ Theta  π Pi  ω Omega

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 API TECHNICAL DATA BOOK – 9th Edition

1B1 Letter Symbols for the Principal Concepts Used in Chemical Engineering
Table 1B1.1 Letter Symbols for the Principal Concepts Used in Chemical Engineering
(1987)

General Symbols Unit or Definition General Symbols Unit or Definition

Acceleration………………....a ft per sec per sec Newton law of motion, gc = ma/F
Of gravity.....…………..…g ft per sec per sec conversion factor in……..….. gc (lb)(ft/s2)/lbf
Acentric factor .....……..…...  Number
Base of natural In general………………….... N
logarithms …………..…... e Of moles……………..…….. n
Coefficient .....…………..….. C Pressure……………………..… p lbf/ft2; atm
Difference, finite………..…..  lbf/in2 (abs)
Differential operator……….. d Quantity, in general…………. Q
Partial…………………...... Radius of gyration ………..….. R
Efficiency …………………....  Ratio, in general…………….....R
Energy, dimension………...... E BTU; ft-lb [force] Refractive index ……………….n
Enthalpy………………..…... H BTU Resistance …………………..… R
Entropy………………..…… S BTU per deg R Shear stress ………………..…..  lb [force] per sq ft
Force……………………..…. F lb [force] Temperature
Fugacity Coefficient……..…  Absolute…………………… T K; deg R
Function ………………..…... ,  , Dimension of………………. 
Gas constant, In general………………..… T, t deg C; deg F
universal…………...…….. R To distinguish, use Ro Temperature difference,
_
Gibbs free energy…………G , F G = H – TS, BTU logarithmic mean………….... θ deg F
Heat …………………...……Q BTU Time
Helmholtz free energy……....A A = U – TS, BTU Dimension of……………..... T sec
Internal energy…………...… U BTU In general………………..… t,  sec; hr
Mass, dimension of ……...…. m lb Watson characterization
Mechanical equivalent factor …………………...…. K
of heat………………….... J ft-lb [force] per BTU Work…………………………… W Btu
Moment of inertia…...………. I lb-ft2

Geometric Property Symbols Unit or Definition Geometric Property Symbols Unit or Definition
Angle…………………..…… , ,  In general…………………...… A sq ft
in x, y plane …………...….. Projected …………………...… A P sq ft
in y,z plane …………..…..  Surface
in z,x plane …………..…..  Per unit mass………..….. A w, s sq ft per lb
Solid angle …………..…...  Per unit volume…………….. Av, a sq ft per cu ft
Area Linear dimension
Cross-section ………..…… S sq ft Breadth ………………..…... b ft
Fraction free cross- Diameter ……………..….… D ft
section ………………...  Distance along path…...……. s, x ft
Height above Mean free path……….....  cm; ft
datum plane………...……. Z ft Radius………………......... r ft
Height equivalent……...…….H ft (Use subscript p for Thickness
equilibrium stage and In general……………..…. B ft
t for transfer unit.) Of film …………..……… Bf ft
Hydraulic radius ……..….. rH ft; sq ft per ft Wavelength ……………...….. cm; ft
Lateral distance Other
from datum Particle-shape
plane……………… Y ft factor ……………..…… s
Length, distance or Volume
dimension of..………. L ft Fraction voids ……………... 
Longitudinal distance Humid volume ……..…….. vH cu ft per lb dry air
from datum plane..… X ft In general..…….……..……. V cu ft

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 API TECHNICAL DATA BOOK – 9th Edition

Table 1B1.1 Letter Symbols for the Principal Concepts used in Chemical Engineering (Continued)
(1987)

Intensive Property Symbols Unit or Definition Intensive Property Symbols Unit or Definition
Absorptivity for At constant
radiation……………......  volume………………………… cv Btu/lb-F
Activity….…………………. a Heat capacities, ratio of……………… 
Activity coefficient, Helmholtz free Btu/ lb
molar basis……………...  energy…………………………. A
Coefficient of Humid heat…………………………. cs Btu /lb dry air-F
expansion
Linear……………......  ft per ft per deg F Internal energy……………………... U Btu/lb
Volumetric…………...  cu ft per cu ft per deg F Latent heat, phase
change…………………..………..  Btu/lb
Compressibility
Molecular weight…………………… MW
factor………………... z z = pV/RT
Density……………………...  lb per cu ft Reflectivity for
radiation……………….………… 
Diffusivity Surface tension……………………...  lb [force] per ft
Molecular, cu ft per (hr) (ft); sq ft Thermal
volumetric……………… Dv,  per hr conductivity…………………….. k Btu/hr-ft2-F-ft
Thermal………………...   = k/cρ, sq ft per hr
Transmissivity of
Emissivity ratio for
radiation………………………….. 
radiation……………...... 
Enthalpy………………….... H Btu per lb Vapor pressure……………………... p* lbf/ft2; atm; lbf/in2
Entropy………………......... S Btu per (lb) (deg R) (abs)
Fugacity…………………..... f lb [force] per sq ft; atm Viscosity
Gibbs free energy…….... G, F Btu per lb Absolute or coeffi-
cient of…………………………… µ lb per (sec) (ft)
Heat capacity………………. c Btu per (lb) (deg F) Kinematic.......…………………..  sq ft per sec
At constant pressure…… cp Btu per (lb) (deg F) Volume, per mole………………….. V cu ft per lb-mole

Concentration Symbols Unit or Definition Concentration Symbols Unit or Definition

Absorption factor………….. A A=L/KV Mole or mass fraction
Concentration, mass lb per cu ft; lb-moles per In heavy or extract
or moles per unit volume.. c ft3 phase…………………..……. x
Fraction In light or raffinate
By volumes……………... xv phase………………………... y
By weight……………...... xw Mole or mass ratio
Cumulative beyond In heavy or extract
a given size……………...  phase……..……………….… X
In light or raffinate
Humidity……………..…….. H, Y H lb per lb dry air phase…………………..…… Y
At adiabatic saturation Number concentration
temperature…….….... Ha, Ya lb per lb dry air of particles……………………... np number per cu ft
At saturation……….….... Hs, Y* lb per lb dry air Phase equilibrium ratio……………. K K = y*/x
At wet-bulb Relative distribution
temperature………….. Hw, Yw lb per lb dry air of two components
Mass concentration of Between two phases in
particles…………………. cp lb per cu ft equilibrium………………….  = Ki/Kj
Moisture content Between
Equilibrium water
to bone dry stock…...... X* lb per lb dry stock
successive
stages……................................  βn 
y / y 
i j n

Free water to bone x / x 

j i n 1
dry stock ….................... X lb per lb dry stock Relative humidity………………….. HR, RH
Total water to bone lb per lb dry stock Slope of equilibrium
dry stock…………..….. XT curve……..…………………….. m m = dy*/dx
Stripping factor……………………. S S=KV/L

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 API TECHNICAL DATA BOOK – 9th Edition

Table 1B1.1 Letter Symbols for the Principal Concepts used in Chemical Engineering (Continued)
(1987)

Rate Concept Symbols Unit or Definition Rate Concept Symbols Unit or Definition
Mass transfer Quantity per unit time,
coefficient unit area
Individual…………… k lb-moles per (hr) (ft2) Emissive power,
(driving force) total………………….. W Btu per (hr) (ft2)
Gas film …...………. kG To define driving force, Mass velocity,
Liquid film………….. kL use subscript: average………………. G G = w/S, lb per (sec)(ft2)
Overall…...…………… K c for lb-moles per cu ft Vapor or light
Gas film basis………. KG p for atm phase……………. G, G lb per (hr) (ft2 )
Liquid film basis…… KL x for mole fraction Liquid or heavy
Quantity per unit phase…………… L, L lb per (hr) (ft2)
time, in general…….. q Radiation, intensity of…… I Btu per (hr) (ft2)
Angular velocity…….  Velocity
Feed rate……………. F lb per hr; lb-moles per hr Nominal, basis
Frequency………….. f, Nf total cross-
Friction velocity…….. u* u* = (gcτwρ )1/2, ft per sec section of
packed vs ft per sec
Heat transfer vessel……..…………..
rate……………… q Btu per hr Volumetric V, V (ft3) per (sec) (ft2);
Heavy of extract average……..………… ft per sec
phase rate……….. L lb per hr; lb-moles per hr Quantity per unit
Heavy or extract time, unit volume
product rate…….. B lb per hr; lb-moles per hr Quantity reacted per unit
Light or raffinate time, reactor volume… NR mole per (sec) (cu ft)
phase rate……….. V lb per hr; lb-moles per hr Space velocity,
Light or raffinate volumetric…………….  cu ft per (sec) (cu ft)
product rate………D lb per hr; lb-moles per hr Quantity per unit
Mass rate of flow………. w lb per sec; lb per hr time, unit area, unit
Molar rate of driving force, in
transfer……………...... N lb-moles per hr general…………………... k
Power…………………... P ft-lb [force] per sec Eddy diffusivity..…......... E (ft2) per hr
Revolutions per unit Eddy viscosity………… vE (ft2) per hr
time………………… n Eddy thermal diffusivity... E (ft2) per hr
Velocity Heat transfer coefficient
In general……….…. u ft per sec Individual…………. H Btu per (hr) (ft2) (°F)
Overall……..……… U Btu per (hr) (ft2) (°F)
Instantaneous local Stefan-Boltzmann
Longitudinal (x) comp- constant…...………….  0.173×10–8 Btu per
onent of…………… u ft per sec (hr) (ft2) (°R)4
Lateral (y) component
of………………….. v ft per sec
Normal (z)
component of……… w ft per sec
Volumetric rate
of flow…….….…… q cu ft per sec; cu ft per hr

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 API TECHNICAL DATA BOOK – 9th Edition

Table 1B1.2 - Alphabetical Index of Symbols Used in Chemical Engineering

(1987)

Primary Concept Subscript Concept Primary Concept Subscript Concept

a Acceleration Acoustic i Generalized

Activity Adiabatic component
Area, alternate for Arithmetic Interface
Surface per unit volume Internal or inner
A Absorption factor Absolute I Intensity of radiation
Area Area Basis Moment of inertia
Helmholtz free energy Component A j Transfer factor Generalized
b Breadth Baffle component
Base
Normal boiling point J Mechanical equiv. of heat
B Heavy product rate Black body k Mass transfer coefficient,
Thickness Boiling point individual
Component B Quantity per unit time, unit
c Concentration, mass or Concentration basis area, unit driving force,
moles per unit volume Contraction in general
Specific heat, heat capacity Conversion factor Thermal Conductivity
Critical K Watson characterization factor
Cutoff size Overall mass transfer coefficient
C Coefficient Component C Phase concentration ratio
d Differential operation Discharge L Heavy or extract phase rate Liquid
Disperse Length Liquid Film basis
Drop Mass velocity of liquid
Dry or heavy phase
D Diameter Component D m Mass Mass
Diffusivity Distillate Dimension of, in general Mean
Light or raffinate product Slope of equilibrium curve
rate
e Base of natural logarithms Effective M Mass basis
Exit Molecular
E Energy Component E MW Molecular Weight
Dimension of Eddy n Number concentration Generalized stage
In General Entrainment Number of Moles number
f Frequency Film Refractive Index
Fanning friction factor Fluid Revolutions per unit time
Fugacity Frequency N Molar rate
Friction Number, in general
F Feed Rate Feed o Initial
Force Outer
O Overall
g Acceleration of gravity Gage p Pressure Constant Pressure
Gravity Particle
Vapor Plate or stages
G Gibbs free energy Vapor Pressure basis
Mass Velocity, Vapor Vapor film basis Projected
In General
h Individual coefficient Heat P Power
of heat transfer Heated pc Pseudocritical
H Enthalpy Heat basis q Quantity per unit time Rate Basis
Height equivalent Humidity in general
Humidity Hydraulic Rate of heat flow
Rate of volumetric flow

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 API TECHNICAL DATA BOOK – 9th Edition

Table 1B1.2 - Alphabetical Index of Symbols Used in Chemical Engineering (Continued)

(1987)
Primary Concept Subscript Concept Primary Concept Subscript Concept
Q Heat α Absorptivity for radiation
Quantity, in general Angle
r Radius Radius or radial Angle in x,y, plane
Reduced Coefficient of linear expansion
R Gas Constant Radiation Relative distribution of two
Ratio, in general Reactor volume basis components between two
Reflux ratio Relative value phases at equilibrium
Resistance Thermal diffusivity
R Radius of gyration β Coefficient of volumetric
s Distance along path Saturation expansion
Specific surface Shape Relative distribution of two
Stress components between
Surface basis successive stages
S Cross-section Cross-section basis γ Activity coefficient, molar
Entropy Solid basis
Stripping factor Solvent Ratio of heat capacities
t Temperature Tangential  Differential operator, partial
Time Terminal δ Diffusivity, volumetric Film basis
Transfer unit or units Δ Difference, finite
T Absolute temperature Constant temperature ε Emissivity ratio for radiation
Temperature, in general Total Fraction voids
u Longitudinal component of Upper η Efficiency
local velocity θ Angle
Velocity, in general Angle in z,x plane
U Heat transfer coefficient, Temperature, dimension of
overall θ Log mean temperature difference
Internal energy λ Latent heat of phase change
v Lateral component of local Constant volume Mean free path
velocity Velocity basis Wavelength
Nominal velocity Volumetric Λ Volumetric space velocity At constant viscosity
Specific volume μ Viscosity, absolute
V Light or raffinate phase rate Vapor ν Viscosity, kinematic
Volume, in general ρ Density Density basis
Volumetric average velocity Reflectivity for radiation
w Mass flow rate Mass basis σ Fraction free cross-section
Normal component of local Wet bulb Stefan-Boltzmann constant
velocity Surface tension
W Work τ Shear stress
Total emissive power Time, alternate for
x Distance along path Mole fraction basis Transmissivity for radiation
Fraction Φ Angle
Mole or mass fraction in Angle in y,z plane
heavy or extract phase Fraction cumulative, larger
X Longitudinal distance from Mole ratio basis than a given size
datum plane Partical factor
Mole or mass ratio in heavy Function
or extract phase Fugacity coefficient
y Mole or mass fraction in Particle factor
light or raffinate phase χ Function
Y Humidity ψ Function
Lateral distance from datum ω Acentric factor
plane Angular frequency
Y Mass or mole ratio in light Angular velocity
or raffinate phase Solid angle
z Compressibility factor
Z Height above datum plane

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 API TECHNICAL DATA BOOK – 9th Edition

1C Property Definitions
(2005)

The physical property data in the 7th -9th Editions have been combined into an electronic database, replacing the
following printed tables in the 6th Edition of the API Technical Data Book:

1C1 Hydrocarbons – Primary Properties

1C2 Hydrocarbons – Secondary Properties
1C3 Nonhydrocarbons – Primary Properties
1C4 Nonhydrocarbons – Secondary Properties

A list of physical properties in the API Technical Data Book as well as a definition of the property and any
other pertinent information follows.

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 API TECHNICAL DATA BOOK – 9th Edition

1C1 Primary Properties

(2006)
Compound Name
The compound name or component name is listed by “Common Name” name convention as defined by DIPPR
(8, 52, 53).

Chemical Formula
The chemical formula is listed as defined by DIPPR (8, 52, 53).

Molecular Weight
The molecular weight (MW) reported is based on IUPAC "Atomic Weights of the Elements," 1986 (102).

Boiling Point
The boiling point is defined at one atmosphere in degrees Fahrenheit.

Freezing Point
The freezing point is in air at one atmosphere in degrees Fahrenheit.

Critical Properties
The conditions of equilibrium for coexisting vapor and liquid phases of a pure substance are defined on a
pressure-temperature diagram by the vapor pressure curve. This curve starts at the triple point, where vapor, liquid,
and solid phases are in equilibrium, and ends at the critical point. As the critical point is approached by the
coexisting phases, their properties approach each other until they become identical at the critical temperature and
pressure, where a single homogeneous phase is present.

Values of critical temperature in degrees Fahrenheit, pressure in pounds per square inch absolute, volume in
cubic feet per pound, and compressibility factor are given. Further information on critical properties is given in
Chapter 4.

Acentric Factor
The acentric factor is calculated from the definition:

ω = –logP*r, 0.7 –1.000

Where:
ω = acentric factor.
P*r, 0.7 = the reduced vapor pressure at a reduced temperature, Tr, of 0.7, P*/Pc
P* = vapor pressure, in pounds per square inch absolute.
Pc = critical pressure, in pounds per square inch absolute.
Tr = reduced temperature, T/Tc
T = temperature, in degree Rankine.
Tc = critical temperature, in degrees Rankine.
When vapor pressure data were not available at T, = 0.7, Procedure 2A1.1 was used. Further information on the
acentric factor is given in Chapter 2.

Density of Liquids
  60 o F, lb/gal 
Specific gravity, 60 o F/60 o F =
  water, 60 o F, lb/gal 
  60 o F, lb/gal 
sp gr =
8.33718
Where:
ρ = liquid density

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 API TECHNICAL DATA BOOK – 9th Edition

Liquid densities at 60 F are given in pounds per gallon at one atmosphere when 60 F is below the normal
boiling point or at saturation pressure when 60 F is at or above the normal boiling point. For compounds that are
solid at 60 F, the liquid density is the liquid value extrapolated back to 60 F.

Densities at other temperatures can be calculated from the density at 60 F by

  60 o F 
 T deg F  
 1  V  
1+    T  60  
 V  T  p 
Where:
T = temperature, in degrees Fahrenheit.
1  V 
  = coefficient of expansion, in degrees Fahrenheit.
V  T  p

API gravity is defined as:

141.5
deg API =  131.5
sp gr

Further information on liquid density is given in Chapter 6.

Refractive Index of Liquids

Values of the refractive index, nD, of the air saturated hydrocarbon relative to air at the sodium D-line
(5892.6A) are reported at 77 F.

Vapor Pressure
Vapor pressure is the pressure at which the vapor phase of a substance is in equilibrium with the liquid
phase of that substance at a specified temperature. Values of vapor pressure at 100 degrees F are reported in
units of pounds per square inch absolute. Further information on vapor pressure is given in Chapter 5.

Heat Capacity of the Liquid and Gas

Heat capacities at constant pressure are reported for the liquid and ideal gas at 60 F and 1 atm pressure.
These are related to the enthalpy by:

 H 
Cp   
 T  p
The observed heat capacity for a saturated liquid or vapor is Cs. This may be converted to the heat capacity
at constant pressure by:

 V  dP *
Cp  T    CS
 T  p dT
Where:
dP*/dT = the temperature derivative of the vapor pressure, in pounds per square inch absolute
per degree Rankine.

When values of the ideal gas heat capacity calculated from spectroscopic data were not available, they were
predicted by the second order method of Benson using the CHETAH program (31). Heat capacities are reported
in units of British thermal units per pound degree F. For compounds where the normal boiling point is below
60 F, liquid heat capacity is reported at the saturation pressure. Further information on heat capacity is given
in Chapter 7.

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 API TECHNICAL DATA BOOK – 9th Edition

Viscosity of Liquids
The kinematic viscosity in centistokes is reported at 100 F and 210 F and 1 atmosphere pressure. The
kinematic viscosity, ν, is related to the absolute viscosity, µ, by:

  poise 
  stokes  
  gm/cu cm 

Where:
ρ = liquid density.

Further information on viscosity is given in Chapter 11.

Heat of Vaporization
The heat of vaporization λ, is defined as the enthalpy of the real gas at the equilibrium vapor pressure, minus the
enthalpy of the liquid at the same pressure and temperature. When experimental data were not available, λ was
predicted at the normal boiling point by the Clapeyron Equation:

 dP * 
   T Vg  VL  144 / 778 
 dT 

Where:
λ = latent heat of vaporization, in Btu/lb
p* = pure substance vapor pressure, in psia
T = temperature, in degrees Rankine
Vg = specific volume of saturated vapor, in ft3/lb
VL = specific volume of saturated liquid, in ft3/lb
(144/778= conversion factor)

Further information on heat of vaporization is given in Chapter 7.

Net Heat of Combustion of the Liquid

Hydrocarbons:
The net heat of combustion at 77 F, ΔHc, is the change in enthalpy for the reaction:

CaHb(liquid, 77 F, 1 atm)+(a+b/4) O2(gas, 77 F, 1 atm) =

aCO2(gas, 77 F, 1 atm) +(b/2)H2O (gas, 77 F, 1 atm)

Net heat of combustion is related to gross heat of combustion by the relationship:

b MW  H 2 O 
H c  net, Btu/lb   H c  gross, Btu/lb     * w
 
2 MW  Ca H b 
Where:
.
λw= heat of vaporization of water at 77 F and saturation pressure = 1,050.0 Btu/lb (20).

For compounds which are gaseous at 77 F and 1 atm (i.e., C1 to C4 hydrocarbons), the net heat of combustion of
the vapor is given. This is related to the net heat of combustion of the liquid as follows:

ΔHc (vapor) = ΔHc (liquid) + λ

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 API TECHNICAL DATA BOOK – 9th Edition

Where:
λ = heat of vaporization at 77 F, in Btu/lb.

Nonhydrocarbons: For nonhydrocarbons, the standard combustion products are:

CO2 (gas)
H2O (gas)
F2 (gas)
Cl2 (gas)
Br2 (gas)
I2 (gas)
SO2 (gas)
N2 (gas)

For compounds where the heat of formation was not available, the net heat of formation was predicted by the
second order method of Benson using the CHETAH program (31) after which the heat of combustion as calculated
from the definition.
The heat of combustion is defined as heat evolved, therefore, the values for heat of combustion that are reported
are positive. Further information on heat of combustion is given in Chapter 14.

Surface Tension
Surface tension is tension exhibited by the free surface of a liquid. The liquid surface tension at 77 F is
reported in units of dynes per centimeter. Further information on surface tension is given in Chapter 10.

© 2013, The American Petroleum Institute and EPCON International - All Rights Reserved 1 - 23
 API TECHNICAL DATA BOOK – 9th Edition

1C2 Secondary Properties

(2006)

Solubility Parameter
The solubility parameter is defined by

1/ 2
 U vap 
   
L 
 V 
Where:
U vap = internal energy change on vaporization to the ideal gas, in cal/mol
L
V = liquid molar volume at 25 C, in cm3/mole

An approximation of the internal energy change yields:

1/2
   RT 
  L 
 V 
Where:
 = heat of vaporization at 25 C, in cal/mole
V = liquid molar volume at 25 C, in cm /mole
L 3

R = gas constant = 1.9872 cal/mole-K

T = absolute temperature, 298.15 K

The above equation was used to calculate solubility parameters in units of (cal/cm3)1/2.

Flash Point Temperature

The flash point of a liquid or solid is the lowest temperature at which sufficient vapor is given off through
evaporation or sublimation to form an ignitable mixture with the air near the surface of the liquid or in the vessel
used.

Heat of Formation
Heat of formation of a hydrocarbon CaHb in the ideal gas state is reported at 77 F in units of Btu/lb. Heats of
formation of the hydrocarbon in the liquid state are related to those in the ideal gas state by the following equation:

f ( Btu / lb)  H f ( Btu / lb)   ( Btu / lb)

H liq gas

Where:
 = the heat of vaporization at 77 F

To derive a liquid heat of formation of a hydrocarbon, CaHb, from a heat of combustion, the following
equations, which neglect pressure corrections, can be used:

MW (CO2 ) b MW ( H 2O )
H liq
f ( Btu / lb )  H c ( net , Btu / lb )  a H f (CO2 , gas )  H f ( H 2O , gas )
MW (Ca H b ) 2 MW (Ca H b )

(44)( 3844.28) b (18)( 5770.9)

H liq
f ( Btu / lb )  H c ( net , Btu / lb )  a 
MW (Ca H b ) 2 MW (Ca H b )

H f = net heat of combustion, in Btu/lb

MW = molecular weight, in lb/lb-mol
H f = heat of formation at 77 F.

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 API TECHNICAL DATA BOOK – 9th Edition

–3844.28 Btu/lb = heat of formation of CO2 gas, in British thermal units per pound.
–5770.9 = heat of formation of H2O gas, in British thermal units per pound (20).

The heats of formation of nonhydrocarbons ate obtained using the same techniques with standard
products of combustion as given earlier. Values are taken from DIPPR Compilation where available.
For compounds where heats of formation were not derived from experimental data, heats of
formation were predicted by the second order method of Benson using the CHETAH program (31).

Gibbs Free Energy of Formation

The Gibbs free energy of formation for the ideal gas state is reported at 77 F in units of British
thermal units per pound.

Heat of Fusion
The heat of fusion is reported at 77 F in units of British thermal units per pound.

Flammability Limits
Lower and upper limits of flammability are reported as volume percent in a mixture with air.
When experimental data were not available, lower flammability limits were predicted by the method of Shebeko
et al. (36), and upper flammability limits were predicted by the DIPPR Compilation method (8, 52, 53).

© 2013, The American Petroleum Institute and EPCON International - All Rights Reserved 1 - 25
 API TECHNICAL DATA BOOK – 9th Edition

1C3 Secondary Properties – Hydrocarbons Only

(1999)
Coefficient of Expansion
The coefficient of expansion is calculated by the definition:

1  V 
   
V  T  p

Values are reported at 60 F in units of (deg F) –1

Aniline Point
The aniline point of a petroleum product is the critical solution temperature of a mixture of equal volumes of
aniline and the hydrocarbon. It is the lowest temperature at which a petroleum product is completely miscible with
an equal volume of freshly distilled aniline.

ASTM Octane Numbers

The octane number of a motor fuel indicates its relative tendency to knock under specified conditions of
laboratory engine operation. It is equal to the percentage of iso-octane in the reference fuel whose knock
characteristics equal those of the sample under test.
Octane numbers are reported for both the motor method and the research method of testing.

Watson K Factor
The Watson characterization factor, K, is defined by the equation:
1
( MeABP ) 3
K
sp gr
Where:
MeABP = mean average boiling point, the normal boiling point for a pure component in degrees
Rankine.

Further information on the Watson characterization factor is given in Chapter 2.

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 API TECHNICAL DATA BOOK – 9th Edition

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