EN 13016: Understanding the European Standard for Liquid Petroleum Products

2024.04.30

EN 13016 is a European Standard that specifies methods for the determination of the vapor pressure of liquid petroleum products. The standard is divided into three parts, with Part 1 focusing on the determination of air-saturated vapor pressure (ASVP) and calculated dry vapor pressure equivalent (DVPE). ASVP is the total vapor pressure that a petroleum product exerts in a vacuum, while DVPE is the vapor pressure that the product would exert if all of the dissolved water and volatile components were removed.

EN 13016-1:2018 replaced the previous version of the standard, EN 13016-1:2007, and includes updates to the test method, as well as changes to the reporting requirements. The standard is applicable to a wide range of petroleum products, including gasoline, diesel fuel, jet fuel, and heating oil. It is commonly used in the petroleum industry to measure the volatility of fuels, which can impact their performance and emissions characteristics.

Overall, EN 13016 is an important standard for the petroleum industry, providing a reliable and consistent method for measuring the vapor pressure of liquid petroleum products. By following the procedures outlined in the standard, companies can ensure that their products meet regulatory requirements and are safe for use in a variety of applications.

Scope of EN 13016

EN 13016 is a European Standard that specifies a method for determining the air saturated vapor pressure (ASVP) of low viscosity petroleum products, components, ethanol blends up to 85% (V/V), and feedstocks containing air. The standard was first published in 1999, and the most recent version, EN 13016-1:2018, supersedes the previous version, EN 13016-1:2007.

The scope of EN 13016-1:2018 has been widened to include ethanol blends of up to 85% (V/V), while the range for the instrument verification fluids has been expanded, and new typical/consensus values have been added in an informative annex. The precision statements have also been updated following a global evaluation in 2016.

EN 13016-1:2018 specifies a method for the determination of the air saturated vapor pressure (ASVP) (total vapor pressure), exerted in vacuo, by volatile, low viscosity petroleum products, components, ethanol blends up to 85% (V/V), and feedstocks containing air. The method is applicable to products having ASVPs in the range of 7 kPa to 130 kPa at temperatures of 0°C to 100°C.

The standard is applicable to products that are liquid at the temperature of testing and that have a Reid vapor pressure (RVP) of less than 100 kPa. The method is not applicable to products that contain water or other volatile components that may interfere with the measurement.

In conclusion, EN 13016-1:2018 is a European Standard that specifies a method for determining the air saturated vapor pressure (ASVP) of low viscosity petroleum products, components, ethanol blends up to 85% (V/V), and feedstocks containing air. The standard provides guidelines for the determination of ASVPs by volatile, low viscosity petroleum products, components, ethanol blends up to 85% (V/V), and feedstocks containing air, and is applicable to products having ASVPs in the range of 7 kPa to 130 kPa at temperatures of 0°C to 100°C.

Terms and Definitions

When working with EN 13016, it is important to understand the various terms and definitions used throughout the standard. This section will provide an overview of the most important terms used in EN 13016.

Volatile Organic Compound Parameters

Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) parameters are used to measure the concentration of organic compounds in a sample. These parameters are important for determining the quality of liquid petroleum products, as well as their environmental impact. The three main VOC parameters used in EN 13016 are:

  • Air Saturated Vapour Pressure (ASVP): This parameter measures the pressure exerted by the vapour of a liquid at a given temperature when the air above the liquid is saturated with the same liquid vapour. ASVP is used to predict the evaporation rate of a liquid, which can be important for safety and environmental reasons.
  • Dry Vapour Pressure Equivalent (DVPE): This parameter is calculated from the ASVP and is used to estimate the vapour pressure of a liquid at a specific temperature and relative humidity.
  • Reid Vapour Pressure (RVP): This parameter is used to measure the vapour pressure of gasoline and other volatile petroleum products. It is calculated by measuring the pressure of the vapour above a sample at 100°F (37.8°C).

Measurement Principles

EN 13016 uses several measurement principles to ensure accurate and reliable results. These principles include:

  • Manual Sampling: This method involves taking a sample of the liquid petroleum product and analyzing it in a laboratory. Manual sampling is the most common method used in EN 13016.
  • Automatic Sampling: This method involves using an automated system to take samples of the liquid petroleum product. Automatic sampling is less common than manual sampling but can be useful for large-scale operations.
  • Calibration: Calibration is the process of verifying the accuracy of the measuring equipment used in EN 13016. Calibration is essential for ensuring that the results obtained are reliable and accurate.
  • Reproducibility: Reproducibility is the ability to obtain the same results from multiple measurements of the same sample. Reproducibility is important for ensuring that the results obtained are reliable and accurate.

Test Methods

EN 13016 specifies the test methods for determining the vapor pressure of liquid petroleum products, including crude oils. The standard includes three main parts: Part 1, Part 2, and Part 3.

Sampling

The sampling method for EN 13016-1 is described in detail in the standard. It involves taking a representative sample of the liquid petroleum product and ensuring that it is free of any water or sediment. The sample is then placed in a sealed container and allowed to equilibrate at a specific temperature. The container is then used for the vapor pressure test.

Analysis

The analysis of the vapor pressure is carried out using a vapor pressure analyzer. The analyzer is calibrated using a standard reference material, and the sample is introduced into the analyzer using a precision syringe. The analyzer is then heated to a specific temperature, and the pressure of the vapor is measured.

EN 13016-1 specifies the test conditions, including the temperature, the vapor-to-liquid ratio, and the duration of the test. The method is suitable for testing samples with or without oxygenates, and no account is taken of dissolved water in the sample.

Quality Control

EN 13016-1 includes requirements for quality control, which are designed to ensure the accuracy and precision of the test results. The standard specifies the use of certified reference materials, and requires that the analyzer be calibrated on a regular basis. The standard also includes requirements for the reporting of the test results, including the use of appropriate units and the calculation of the uncertainty of the measurement.

In conclusion, EN 13016 provides a comprehensive set of test methods for the determination of the vapor pressure of liquid petroleum products. The standard includes detailed requirements for sampling, analysis, and quality control, and is widely used in the petroleum industry.

Performance Requirements

EN 13016 specifies the performance requirements for determining the air-saturated vapor pressure (ASVP) and the calculated dry vapor pressure equivalent (DVPE) of liquid petroleum products. The standard outlines the testing conditions, sample preparation, and calculation procedures to ensure accurate and reliable results.

To meet the performance requirements of EN 13016, the instrument used for testing must have a resolution of at least 0.1 kPa and a repeatability of no more than 0.5 kPa. The instrument must also be able to maintain a constant temperature of 37.8°C ± 0.1°C throughout the test.

In addition, the sample size required for testing must be at least 50 mL, and the sample must be free of any water or sediment. The sample should also be representative of the product being tested, and the test should be performed in duplicate to ensure accuracy.

EN 13016 also requires that the test be performed in a well-ventilated area, away from any sources of ignition, and that all safety precautions be taken to prevent accidents. It is important to note that the standard does not provide guidance on the interpretation of results or the use of ASVP and DVPE values for product specifications or regulatory compliance.

In summary, meeting the performance requirements of EN 13016 is essential for obtaining accurate and reliable results when determining the ASVP and DVPE of liquid petroleum products. Ensuring that the instrument used for testing meets the resolution and repeatability requirements, using a representative sample, and following all safety precautions are key factors in achieving compliance with the standard.

Compliance and Reporting

EN 13016 sets out the requirements for the determination of the vapor pressure of liquid petroleum products, including gasoline, diesel, and aviation fuels. Compliance with this standard is important for ensuring the safety and quality of these products.

To demonstrate compliance with EN 13016, you need to perform vapor pressure testing according to the procedures outlined in the standard. The results of these tests should be reported in a test report that includes information such as the product name, batch number, date of manufacture, and test results.

In addition to compliance testing, reporting is an important aspect of EN 13016. Reporting requirements may vary depending on the country or region where the product is being sold, but generally, you will need to provide information about the vapor pressure of your product to regulatory authorities. This information may be used to ensure that the product meets safety and environmental standards.

To ensure accurate and consistent reporting, it is important to use standardized testing methods and to keep detailed records of test results. You may also need to provide additional information about your product, such as its composition or origin.

Overall, compliance and reporting are essential components of EN 13016. By following the procedures outlined in the standard and providing accurate and timely reports, you can help ensure the safety and quality of your liquid petroleum products.