ASTM D4057-22

This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
Designation: D4057 − 22
Manual of Petroleum Measurement Standards (MPMS), Chapter 8.1
Standard Practice for
Manual Sampling of Petroleum and Petroleum Products
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D4057; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
This standard has been approved for use by agencies of the U.S. Department of Defense.
INTRODUCTION
The previous version of the manual sampling practice described the various sampling methods and
apparatus, with much focus on crude oils and semi-solids and solids. Also, previous versions did not
significantly address closed or restricted sampling, which continue to become more prevalent.
This version will provide guidance on manual sampling terminology, concepts, equipment,
containers, procedures, and will provide some specific guidance related to particular products and
tests. The type and size of the sample obtained, and the handling method, will depend on the purpose
for which it was taken. Refer to the test method for any specific sampling and handling requirements
uptothepointoftesting.Itremainstheresponsibilityofthesubcommitteefortherelevanttestmethod
to provide guidance, or warnings, regarding sample container selection; preparation; cleanliness; heat,
pressure, or light; sample size requirements for testing and retention; and any other special handling
requirements necessary to ensure a representative sample is tested.
In addition to the individual test method, for guidance on container, size, mixing and special
handling, further guidance may be provided in Practice D5854 (API MPMS Chapter 8.3), Practice
D5842 (API MPMS Chapter 8.4), and Practice D4306. While this practice will provide some general
guidance regarding sample chain of custody, Guide D4840 should also be consulted.
This document has been developed jointly between the American Petroleum Institute (API) and
ASTM International.
1. Scope* petroleum coke, see Practice D8145. For the sampling of
calcined petroleum coke, see Practice D6970.
1.1 This practice covers procedures and equipment for
manually obtaining samples of liquid petroleum and petroleum
1.3 This practice provides additional specific information
products, crude oils, and intermediate products from the
about sample container selection, preparation, and sample
sample point into the primary container are described. Proce-
handling.
duresarealsoincludedforthesamplingoffreewaterandother
1.4 This practice does not cover sampling of electrical
heavy components associated with petroleum and petroleum
insulating oils and hydraulic fluids. If sampling is for the
products.
precise determination of volatility, use Practice D5842 (API
1.2 This practice also addresses the sampling of semi-liquid
MPMS Chapter 8.4) in conjunction with this practice. For
or solid-state petroleum products. For the sampling of green
sample mixing and handling, refer to Practice D5854 (API
MPMS Chapter 8.3).
1 1.5 The procedures described in this practice may also be
This practice is under the jurisdiction ofASTM Committee D02 on Petroleum
Products, Liquid Fuels, and Lubricants and the API Committee on Petroleum
applicable in sampling most non-corrosive liquid industrial
Measurement, and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee D02.02 /COMQ the
chemicals provided that all safety precautions specific to these
joint ASTM-API Committee on Hydrocarbon Measurement for Custody Transfer
chemicals are followed. Also, refer to Practice E300. The
(Joint ASTM-API). This practice has been approved by the sponsoring committees
and accepted by the Cooperating Societies in accordance with established proce-
procedures described in this practice are also applicable to
dures. This practice was issued as a joint ASTM-API standard in 1981.
sampling liquefied petroleum gases and chemicals. Also refer
Current edition approved May 1, 2022. Published June 2022. Originally
to Practices D1265 and D3700. The procedure for sampling
approved in 1981. Last previous edition approved in 2019 as D4057 – 19. DOI:
10.1520/D4057-22. bituminous materials is described in Practice D140. Practice
*A Summary of Changes section appears at the end of this standard
© Jointly copyrighted by ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959, USA and the American Petroleum Institute (API), 1220 L Street NW, Washington DC 20005, USA
D4057 − 22
D4306 provides guidance on sample containers and prepara- D2172 Test Methods for Quantitative Extraction of Asphalt
tion for sampling aviation fuel. Binder from Asphalt Mixtures
D2622 Test Method for Sulfur in Petroleum Products by
1.6 Units—The values stated in SI units are to be regarded
Wavelength Dispersive X-ray Fluorescence Spectrometry
as the standard. USC units are reflected in parentheses.
D3230 Test Method for Salts in Crude Oil (Electrometric
1.7 This standard does not purport to address all of the
Method)
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
D3700 Practice for Obtaining LPG Samples Using a Float-
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
ing Piston Cylinder
priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter-
D4006 Test Method for Water in Crude Oil by Distillation
mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
(API MPMSChapter 10.2)
1.8 This international standard was developed in accor-
D4007 Test Method forWater and Sediment in Crude Oil by
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
the Centrifuge Method (Laboratory Procedure) (API
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
MPMS Chapter 10.3)
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
D4175 Terminology Relating to Petroleum Products, Liquid
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
Fuels, and Lubricants
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
D4177 Practice for Automatic Sampling of Petroleum and
2. Referenced Documents
Petroleum Products (API MPMS Chapter 8.2)
2.1 ASTM Standards:
D4294 Test Method for Sulfur in Petroleum and Petroleum
D86 Test Method for Distillation of Petroleum Products and
Products by Energy Dispersive X-ray Fluorescence Spec-
Liquid Fuels at Atmospheric Pressure
trometry
D97 Test Method for Pour Point of Petroleum Products
D4306 Practice for Aviation Fuel Sample Containers for
D140 Practice for Sampling Asphalt Materials
Tests Affected by Trace Contamination
D217 Test Methods for Cone Penetration of Lubricating
D4377 Test Method forWater in Crude Oils by Potentiomet-
Grease
ric Karl Fischer Titration (API MPMS Chapter 10.7)
D244 Test Methods and Practices for Emulsified Asphalts
D4530 Test Method for Determination of Carbon Residue
D268 Guide for Sampling and Testing Volatile Solvents and
(Micro Method)
Chemical Intermediates for Use in Paint and Related
D4629 Test Method for Trace Nitrogen in Liquid Hydrocar-
Coatings and Material
bons by Syringe/Inlet Oxidative Combustion and Chemi-
D287 Test Method for API Gravity of Crude Petroleum and
luminescence Detection
Petroleum Products (Hydrometer Method)
D4807 Test Method for Sediment in Crude Oil by Mem-
D323 TestMethodforVaporPressureofPetroleumProducts
brane Filtration (API MPMS Chapter 10.8)
(Reid Method)
D4840 Guide for Sample Chain-of-Custody Procedures
D445 Test Method for Kinematic Viscosity of Transparent
D4928 Test Method for Water in Crude Oils by Coulometric
and Opaque Liquids (and Calculation of Dynamic Viscos-
Karl Fischer Titration (API MPMS Chapter 10.9)
ity)
D4929 Test Method for Determination of Organic Chloride
D473 Test Method for Sediment in Crude Oils and Fuel Oils
Content in Crude Oil
by the Extraction Method (API MPMS Chapter 10.1)
D5002 Test Method for Density, Relative Density, and API
D664 Test Method for Acid Number of Petroleum Products
Gravity of Crude Oils by Digital Density Analyzer
by Potentiometric Titration
D5191 Test Method for Vapor Pressure of Petroleum Prod-
D977 Specification for Emulsified Asphalt
ucts and Liquid Fuels (Mini Method)
D1265 Practice for Sampling Liquefied Petroleum (LP)
D5762 Test Method for Nitrogen in Liquid Hydrocarbons,
Gases, Manual Method
Petroleum and Petroleum Products by Boat-Inlet Chemi-
D1267 Test Method for Gauge Vapor Pressure of Liquefied
Petroleum (LP) Gases (LP-Gas Method) luminescence
D1298 Test Method for Density, Relative Density, or API D5842 Practice for Sampling and Handling of Fuels for
Gravity of Crude Petroleum and Liquid Petroleum Prod-
Volatility Measurement (API MPMS Chapter 8.4)
ucts by Hydrometer Method (API MPMS Chapter 9.1)
D5853 Test Method for Pour Point of Crude Oils
D1657 Test Method for Density or Relative Density of Light
D5854 Practice for Mixing and Handling of Liquid Samples
Hydrocarbons by Pressure Hydrometer (API MPMS
of Petroleum and Petroleum Products (API MPMS Chap-
Chapter 9.2)
ter 8.3)
D1838 TestMethodforCopperStripCorrosionbyLiquefied
D5863 Test Methods for Determination of Nickel,
Petroleum (LP) Gases
Vanadium, Iron, and Sodium in Crude Oils and Residual
D1856 Test Method for Recovery of Asphalt from Solution
Fuels by Flame Atomic Absorption Spectrometry
by Abson Method
D6299 Practice for Applying Statistical Quality Assurance
and Control Charting Techniques to Evaluate Analytical
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
Measurement System Performance
contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM
D6377 Test Method for Determination of Vapor Pressure of
Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
the ASTM website. Crude Oil: VPCR (Expansion Method)
x
D4057 − 22
D6378 Test Method for Determination of Vapor Pressure Crude Oils and Fuel Oils by the Extraction Method
(VP ) of Petroleum Products, Hydrocarbons, and (ASTM Test Method D473)
X
Hydrocarbon-Oxygenate Mixtures (Triple Expansion MPMS Chapter 10.2 Standard Test Method for Water in
Method) Crude Oil by Distillation (ASTM Test Method D4006)
D6470 Test Method for Salt in Crude Oils (Potentiometric MPMS Chapter 10.3 Standard Test Method for Water and
Method) Sediment in Crude Oil by the Centrifuge Method (Labo-
D6560 Test Method for Determination ofAsphaltenes (Hep- ratory Procedure) (ASTM Test Method D4007)
tane Insolubles) in Crude Petroleum and Petroleum Prod- MPMS Chapter 10.4 Standard Test Method for Water and
ucts Sediment in Crude Oil by the Centrifuge Method (Labo-
D6822 Test Method for Density, Relative Density, and API ratory Procedure)
Gravity of Crude Petroleum and Liquid Petroleum Prod- MPMS Chapter 10.7 Standard Test Method for Water in
ucts by Thermohydrometer Method (API MPMS Chapter Crude Oils by Potentiometric Karl Fischer Titration
9.3) (ASTM Test Method D4377)
D6849 Practice for Storage and Use of Liquefied Petroleum MPMS Chapter 10.8 Standard Test Method for Water in
Gases (LPG) in Sample Cylinders for LPG Test Methods Crude Oils by Potentiometric Karl Fischer Titration
D6970 Practice for Collection of Calcined Petroleum Coke (ASTM Test Method D4807)
Samples for Analysis MPMS Chapter 10.9 Standard Test Method for Water in
D7169 Test Method for Boiling Point Distribution of Crude Oils by Coulometric Karl Fischer Titration (ASTM
Samples with Residues Such as Crude Oils and Atmo- Test Method D4928)
spheric and Vacuum Residues by High Temperature Gas MPMS Chapter 14.6 Pressure Pycnometer
Chromatography MPMSChapter17.1 GuidelinesforMarineCargoInspection
D7975 Test Method for Determination of Vapor Pressure of MPMS Chapter 17.2 Measurement of Cargoes Aboard Ma-
Crude Oil: VPCR -F(Tm°C) (Manual Expansion Field rine Tank Vessels
x
Method) MPMSChapter 18.1 Measurement Procedures for Crude Oil
D8009 Practice for Manual Piston Cylinder Sampling for Gathered from Small Tanks By Truck
Volatile Crude Oils, Condensates, and Liquid Petroleum
2.3 Gas Processors Association (GPA) Standards:
Products (API MPMS Chapter 8.5)
GPA S 2174 Obtaining Liquid Hydrocarbon Samples for
D8145 Practice for Sampling of Green Petroleum Coke
Analysis by Gas Chromatograph
E300 Practice for Sampling Industrial Chemicals
2.4 Other Publications:
E882 Guide for Accountability and Quality Control in the
UOP163 Hydrogen Sulfide and Mercaptan Sulfur in Liquid
Chemical Analysis Laboratory 5
Hydrocarbons by Potentiometric Titration
2.2 API Manual of Petroleum Measurement Standards:
49 CFR 173 Shippers—General Requirements for Ship-
MPMS Chapter 1 Vocabulary
ments and Packagings
MPMS Chapter 8.2 Automatic Sampling of Petroleum and
Petroleum Products (ASTM Practice D4177)
3. Terminology
MPMS Chapter 8.3 Standard Practice for Mixing and Han-
3.1 Definitions:
dling of Liquid Samples of Petroleum and Petroleum
3.1.1 For definitions of terms used in this practice, refer to
Products (ASTM Practice D5854)
Terminology D4175 and API MPMS Chapter 1.
MPMSChapter 8.4 Standard Practice for the Sampling and
3.1.2 assay, n—the procedure to determine the presence,
Handling of Fuels for Volatility Measurements (ASTM
absence, or quantity of one or more components.
Practice D5842)
3.1.3 automatic sampler, n—a device used to extract a
MPMS Chapter 8.5 Standard Practice Manual Piston Cylin-
representative sample from the liquid flowing in a pipe; the
ders (ASTM Practice D8009)
automatic sampler generally consists of a probe, a sample
MPMSChapter 9.1 Standard Test Method for Density, Rela-
extractor, an associated controller, a flow measuring device,
tive Density (Specific Gravity), or API Gravity of Crude
and a sample receiver.
Petroleum and Liquid Petroleum (ASTM Test Method
D1298) 3.1.4 bubble point, n—the pressure at which the first bubble
MPMSChapter 9.2 Standard Test Method for Density or ofvaporformsisthebubblepointwhenthepressureislowered
Relative Density of Light Hydrocarbons by Pressure on a liquid held at a constant temperature.
Hydrometer (ASTM Test Method D1657) 3.1.4.1 Discussion—Bubble point pressures are higher at
MPMS Chapter 9.3 Standard Test Method for Density, Rela- high temperatures.
tive Density, and API Gravity of Crude Petroleum and
LiquidPetroleumProductsbyThermohydrometerMethod
(ASTM Test Method D6822) Available from Gas ProcessorsAssociation (GPA), 6526 E. 60th St.,Tulsa, OK
74145, http://www.gasprocessors.com.
MPMS Chapter 10.1 Standard Test Method for Sediment in
Available from ASTM International. Visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org,
or contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org.
AvailablefromU.S.GovernmentPrintingOfficeSuperintendentofDocuments,
Available from American Petroleum Institute (API), 1220 L. St., NW, 732 N. Capitol St., NW, Mail Stop: SDE, Washington, DC 20401, http://
Washington, DC 20005-4070, http://www.api.org. www.access.gpo.gov.
D4057 − 22
FIG. 1 Example of a Fixed Volume Cylinder with an Outage Tube
3.1.5 dead crude oil, n—crude oil with sufficiently low 3.1.15 homogeneous, adj—quality of being uniform with
vapor pressure that, when exposed to normal atmospheric respect to composition, a specified property or a constituent
pressure at room temperature, does not result in boiling of the throughout a defined area or space. D4177
sample.
3.1.16 inert gas, n—a gas that does not react with its
3.1.5.1 Discussion—These crudes will have vapor pressures
surroundings.
below atmospheric pressure at room temperature.
3.1.17 inerting, v—a procedure used to reduce the oxygen
3.1.6 density, n—for a quantity of a homogeneous
content of the vapor spaces by introducing an inert gas such as
substance,theratioofitsmasstoitsvolume.Thedensityvaries
nitrogen or carbon dioxide or a mixture of gases such as
as the temperature changes and is, therefore, generally ex-
processed flue gas.
pressed as the mass per unit of volume at a specified tempera-
3.1.18 intermediate sample container, n—a container into
ture.
which all or part of the sample from a primary container
3.1.7 dissolved water, n—water in solution in petroleum and
(receiver) is transferred for transport, storage, or ease of
petroleum products.
handling.
3.1.8 emulsion, n—a suspension of fine particles or
3.1.19 live crude oil, n—crude oil with sufficiently high
globules, or both, of one or more liquids in another liquid.
vapor pressure that it would boil off if exposed to normal
3.1.9 entrained water, n—water suspended in the petroleum
atmospheric pressure at room temperature.
and petroleum products. Entrained water includes emulsions
3.1.20 maximum fill density (reduced fill density), n—the
but does not include dissolved water.
volume of a container occupied by the sample, usually ex-
3.1.10 flash point, n—in petroleum products, the lowest
pressed as a percentage of the total capacity. Transportation
temperature corrected to a barometric pressure of 101.3 kPa
legislation such as U.S. CFR 49, Canadian Transportation of
(760 mmHg),atwhichapplicationofanignitionsourcecauses
Dangerous Goods Regulations, and IATA regulations limit the
thevaporsofaspecimenofthesampletoigniteunderspecified
percent fill of containers used for shipping LPG and may quote
conditions of test.
this requirement as a reduced fill density or maximum fill
3.1.11 floating piston (variable volume) cylinder (FPC),
density (normally 80 % maximum liquid fill at 15 °C). Lower
n—a high pressure sample container, with a free floating
percent fill (lower fill density) may be required if sampling at
internal piston that effectively divides the container into two
lower temperatures.
separate compartments.
3.1.21 on-board quantity (OBQ), n—the material present in
3.1.12 free water, n—water that exists as a separate phase.
a vessel’s cargo tanks, void spaces, and pipelines before the
vessel is loaded. On-board quantity may include any combi-
3.1.13 high pressure cylinder, n—a receptacle used for
nation of water, oil, slops, oil residue, oil/water emulsion, and
storage and transportation of a sample obtained at pressures
sediment.
above atmospheric pressure.
3.1.14 homogeneity, n—uniformity of the characteristics of 3.1.22 outage tube (internal), n—a “cut to length” tube
a material throughout a defined area or space. placed inside of the cylinder used as a way to remove excess
D4057 − 22
FIG. 2 Example of a Fixed Volume Cylinder and Transfer Line
sample from the cylinder via manual evacuation after the 3.1.28.1 Discussion—The act of sampling or obtaining a
sample cylinder assembly is removed from the sample point. sample may or may not be representative of the contents of the
Refer to Fig. 1 and Fig. 2. whole or total volume of product. See also 3.1.26 and 3.3.19.
3.1.29 slip tube, n—a graduated hollow rod fitted into a
3.1.23 portable manual sampling unit, PSU, n—an intrinsi-
gas-tighthousing,thelowerendofwhichisopentothecargo’s
callysafedeviceusedinconjunctionwithavaporcontrolvalve
contents and the upper end is fitted with a valve.
to obtain required cargo samples under closed or restricted
system conditions. Refer to Fig. 3 and Fig. 4.
3.1.30 standpipes, n—the vertical sections of pipe or tubing
used for gauging extending from the gauging platform to near
3.1.24 primary sample container, n—a container in which a
the bottom of tanks that are equipped with external or internal
sample is initially collected.
floatingroofs.Standpipesmayalsobefoundonmarinevessels.
3.1.24.1 Discussion—Examples of primary sample contain-
Standpipes are also known as “stilling wells” or “gauge wells.”
ers include glass and plastic bottles, cans, core-type thief, and
Standpipes without slots do not allow the free flow of product
fixed and portable sample containers (receivers).
through the standpipe, and are known as solid or unslotted
3.1.25 remaining on board, ROB, n—thematerialremaining
standpipes.
in a vessel’s cargo tanks, void spaces, and pipelines after the
3.1.31 ullage (outage), n—the volume of available space in
cargo is discharged. Remaining on board quantity may include
a container unoccupied by contents.
any combination of water, oil, slops, oil residue, oil/water
emulsions, and sediment.
3.1.32 vapor control valve, VCV, n—a valve fitted on a
standpipe, expansion trunk, or the deck that permits use of the
3.1.26 sample, n—a portion extracted from a total volume
portable handheld gauging/sampling instruments while re-
that may or may not contain the constituents in the same
stricting the release of vapors into the atmosphere.
proportions that are present in that total volume.
3.1.33 vapor pressure, n—the pressure exerted by the vapor
3.1.27 sample loop (fast loop or slip stream), n—a low
volume bypass diverted from the main pipeline. of a liquid when in equilibrium with the liquid.
3.1.28 sampling, v—the steps or procedures required to 3.1.33.1 Reid vapor pressure, RVP, n—resultant total pres-
obtain a sample, which is a portion of the contents of any pipe, sure reading, corrected for measuring error, of a specific
tank, or other vessel, and to place that sample in a container empirical test method (Test Method D323) for measuring the
from which a test specimen or aliquot can be analyzed. vapor pressure of gasoline and other volatile products.
D4057 − 22
FIG. 3 Examples of a Small Volume (5 cm (2 in.)) and a Large Volume PSU (10 cm (4 in.))
FIG. 4 Examples of Closed/Restricted Sampling Equipment
3.1.33.2 true vapor pressure, TVP, n—the pressure at which 3.3.1.1 Discussion—If required by the test method, the
the fluid is in equilibrium between its liquid and gas state. sampler may be greater than 85 % full when withdrawn but in
no case shall it be completely full. In these cases, take special
3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
handling precautions to consider the hazards associated with
3.2.1 LPG (liquefied petroleum gas), n—narrow boiling
product thermal expansion.
range hydrocarbon mixtures consisting mainly of propane or
3.3.2 boring sample, n—a sample of the material contained
propylene, or both, and butanes or butylenes, or both, plus
in a barrel, case, bag, or cake that is obtained from the chips
limited amounts of other hydrocarbons and naturally-occurring
created by boring holes into the material with a ship auger.
non-hydrocarbons.
3.3.3 bottom sample, n—a spot sample collected from the
3.2.2 non-homogeneous, adj—quality of not being uniform
material at the bottom of the tank, container, or line at its
with respect to composition, a specified property or a constitu-
lowest point. In practice, the term bottom sample has a variety
ent throughout a defined area or space.
of meanings. As a result, it is recommended that the exact
3.2.3 rinse, v—the act of introducing material into a con-
sampling location (for example 15 cm (6 in.) from the bottom)
tainer for a purpose and discarding material before collecting a
should be specified when using this term. See Fig. 5.
sample in the same container.
3.3.4 bottom water sample, n—a spot sample of free water
3.2.3.1 Discussion—Reasons for rinsing may include pur-
taken from beneath the petroleum contained in a ship or barge
poses such as removal of potential contaminants from the
compartment or a storage tank.
container, pre-load the container with hydrocarbon vapors,
3.3.5 clearance sample, n—a spot sample taken with the
acclimatecontainertemperaturetothatofthesampleifneeded,
inlet opening of the sampling device 10 cm (4 in.) (some
as well as other purposes.
regulatory agencies require 15 cm (6 in.)) below the bottom of
the tank outlet. This term is normally associated with small
3.3 Definitions of Sample Types:
3.3.1 all-levels sample, n—a sample obtained by lowering (159 m (1000 barrels) or less) tanks, commonly referred to as
lease tanks.
the closed sampling device to the bottom of the outlet suction
level, but always above free water, then opening the sampler 3.3.6 composite sample, n—a sample prepared by combin-
and raising it at a uniform rate such that it is between 70 % and ing a number of samples and treated as a single sample. Also
85 % full when withdrawn from the product. Alternatively, refer to “tank composite sample,” “volumetric composite
all-levels samples may be taken with samplers designed for sample,” “deck composite sample,” and “multiple tank com-
filling as they pass downward through the product. posite sample” definitions.
D4057 − 22
3.3.16 lower sample, n—a spot sample of liquid from the
middle of the lower one-third of the tank’s content (a distance
of five-sixths of the depth liquid below the liquid’s surface).
See Fig. 5.
3.3.16.1 Discussion—For tap sampling, the tap is often not
in the middle of the lower layer. It is typically near the level of
themaintankoutletasreferencedin7.7.2.Whileitisnotinthe
exact middle of the lower one-third of the tank’s content, it
should still yield a sample representative of the lower layer.
3.3.17 middle sample, n—a spot sample taken from the
middle of a tank’s contents (a distance of one half of the depth
of liquid below the liquid’s surface). See Fig. 5.
3.3.17.1 Discussion—For tap sampling, the tap is often not
in the middle of the middle layer. Use the available tap closest
to the middle of the middle layer. While it is not in the exact
middle of the middle one-third of the tank’s content, it should
still yield a sample representative of the middle layer.
3.3.18 multiple tank composite sample, n—a mixture of
individual samples or composites of samples that have been
obtained from several tanks or ship/barge compartments con-
taining the same grade of material. The mixture is blended
typically in proportion to the volume of material contained in
the respective tanks or compartments.
FIG. 5 Illustration of Common Spot Sample Positions
3.3.19 representative sample, n—a portion extracted from
the total volume that contains the constituents in the same
proportions that are present in that total volume.
3.3.20 running sample, n—a sample obtained by lowering
3.3.7 core sample, n—a sample of uniform cross-sectional
an open sampling device to the bottom of the outlet suction
area taken at a given height in a tank.
level, but always above free water, and returning it to the top
3.3.8 dead bottom sample, n—a sample obtained from the
of the product at a uniform rate such that the sampling device
lowestaccessiblepointinatank.Thisistypicallydirectlyfrom
is between 70 % and 85 % full when withdrawn from the
the floor (or datum plate) of the shore tank or the bottom of the
product.
vessel compartment.
3.3.20.1 Discussion—If required by the test method, the
3.3.9 deck composite sample, n—a sample typically made
sampler may be greater than 85 % full when withdrawn but in
by compositing a portion of each sample obtained from all
no case shall it be completely full. In these cases, take special
vessel compartments containing a particular product grade.
handling precautions to consider the hazards associated with
3.3.10 dipper sample, n—a sample obtained by placing a product thermal expansion.
dipper or other collecting vessel in the path of a free-flowing
3.3.21 spot sample, n—a sample taken at a specific location
stream to collect a definite volume from the full cross section
in a tank or from a flowing stream in a pipe at a specific time.
of the stream at regular time intervals for a constant time rate
3.3.22 suction sample (outlet), n—aspotsampletakenatthe
offloworattimeintervalsvariedinproportiontotheflowrate.
lowest level from which product is expected to be pumped
3.3.11 drain sample, n—a sample obtained from the water
from the tank; see Fig. 5.
draw-off valve on a storage tank vessel or container.
3.3.23 sump sample, n—spot sample taken from within the
Occasionally, a drain sample may be the same as a bottom
tank or vessel compartment sump; see Fig. 5.
sample (for example, in the case of a tank car).
3.3.24 surface sample (skim sample), n—a spot sample
3.3.12 floating roof sample, n—a spot sample taken just
skimmed from the surface of a liquid in a tank. See Fig. 5.
below the surface to determine the density (API gravity) of the
3.3.25 tank composite sample, n—a blend created from a
liquid on which the roof is floating.
single tank, as an example combining the upper, middle, and
3.3.13 grab sample, n—liquid—a sample collected at a
lower samples. For a tank of uniform cross section, such as an
specific location in a tank or from a flowing stream in a pipe at
upright cylindrical tank, the blend consists of equal parts of the
a specific time.
three samples. A combination of other samples may also be
3.3.14 grease sample, n—obtainedbyscoopingordippinga used,suchasrunning,all-levelsoradditionalspotsamples.For
quantity of soft or semi-liquid material contained from a a horizontal cylindrical tank, the blend consists of samples in
package in a representative manner. the proportions shown in Table 1.
3.3.15 loading zone sample, n—a sample taken from a tank 3.3.26 tank tap sample, n—a spot sample taken from a
prior to commencement of a transfer, intended to represent sample tap on the side of a tank. It may also be referred to as
only the product expected to be transferred. a tank-side sample.
D4057 − 22
TABLE 1 Sampling from Horizontal Cylindrical Tanks
Liquid Depth (% of Diameter) Sampling Level (% of Diameter above Bottom) Composite Sample (Proportional Parts)
Upper Middle Lower Upper Middle Lower
100 80 50 20 3 4 3
90 75 50 20 3 4 3
80 70 50 20 2 5 3
70 . 50 20 . 6 4
60 . 50 20 . 5 5
50 . 40 20 . 4 6
40 . . 20 . . 10
30 . . 15 . . 10
20 . . 10 . . 10
10 . . 5 . . 10
3.3.27 test specimen, n—a representative sub-sample taken process vessels, drums, cans, tubes, bags, kettles, and open
fromtheprimaryorintermediatesamplecontainerforanalysis. discharge streams into the primary sample container.
3.3.28 top sample, n—a spot sample obtained 15 cm (6 in.)
below the top surface of the liquid. See Fig. 5.
5. Health and Safety Precautions
3.3.29 tube sample (thief sample), n—a sample obtained
5.1 General—This practice does not purport to cover all
with a sampling tube or special thief, either as a core sample or
safety and health aspects associated with sampling. Personnel
spot sample, from a specific point in the tank or container.
involved with sampling of petroleum and petroleum-related
3.3.30 upper sample, n—a spot sample taken from the
products should be familiar with their physical and chemical
middle of the upper one third of the tank’s contents (a distance
characteristics, including: potential for fire, explosion, and
of one-sixth of the depth of the liquid below the liquid’s
reactivity; toxicity and health hazards; and appropriate emer-
surface). See Fig. 5.
gency procedures. Additionally personnel should comply with
3.3.30.1 Discussion—For tap sampling, the tap is often not
individual company safe operating practices and local, state,
in the middle of the upper layer. Use the available tap closest
and national regulations, including the use of personal protec-
to the middle of the upper layer. While it is not in the exact
tive equipment (PPE). Upon completion of any sampling
middle of the upper one-third of the tank’s content, it should
activity, ensure the sample point is left in a safe, secure, and
still yield a sample representative of the upper layer.
clean condition with the handling of any waste in accordance
3.3.31 volumetric composite sample, n—a sample consist-
with local requirements.All marine vessel sampling should be
ing of measured proportional parts from each zone if it is for a
performed in the presence of a designated vessel representa-
single tank. If the volumetric composite is for multiple tanks,
tive.
or vessel compartments, it consists of measured proportional
parts from each tank or compartment sampled.
5.2 Sample Handling—For safety and protection of the
3.3.32 zone sample, n—a sample taken as that part of the
integrity of the samples, sample carriers are suggested in most
liquid column that is trapped within the whole height of a
instances. Refer to Fig. 6. Because of potential liquid thermal
sampling device when it is sealed at a single spot location
expansion, sample containers that are completely, or nearly
within a tank after having been fully flushed as it was lowered
full, are not to be transported or stored, unless special precau-
to that position.
tionary measures are taken. A safe fill of between 70 % and
85 % is recommended. Refer to definition for maximum fill
4. Significance and Use
densityand9.30forsafefillofpressurizedcylinders.Takecare
toavoidheatingsamplesincontainerswithgas-tightcaps,lids,
4.1 Samples of petroleum and petroleum products are ob-
tained for many reasons, including the determination of chemi- and stoppers. Handle any sample containing hazardous mate-
cal and physical properties. These properties may be used for: rialsortheresidueofhazardousmaterialsofferedforshipment/
calculating standard volumes; establishing product value; and transportation by air, public roadway, rail, or water in such a
often safety and regulatory reporting. manner as to ensure compliance with requirements such as
training, documentation, labeling, container, packaging,
4.2 Thereareinherentlimitationswhenperforminganytype
communications, and so forth, set forth in applicable
of sampling, any one of which may affect the representative
regulations, such as those issued by the International Air
nature of the sample. As examples, a spot sample provides a
Transport Association (IATA) and the U.S. Department of
sample from only one particular point in the tank, vessel
Transportation (DOT).
compartment, or pipeline. In the case of running or all-level
samples, the sample only represents the column of material
5.3 Sample Point Safety:
from which it was taken.
5.3.1 Provide sample points that enable samples to be taken
4.3 Based on the product, and testing to be performed, this in a safe manner, considering ventilation during sampling,
practice provides guidance on sampling equipment, container clear access/egress, and lighting. Any potential hazards asso-
preparation, and manual sampling procedures for petroleum ciated with sampling, or located near the sample point, should
and petroleum products of a liquid, semi-liquid, or solid state, beclearlymarked.Itisrecommendedthatapressuregaugeand
from the storage tanks, flowlines, pipelines, marine vessels, a method of closed loop flushing with safe drainage, be
D4057 − 22
documented conditions, some exceptions to the 30 min relax-
ation period may apply. Some tanks and vessel compartments
have inert gas blankets in the vapor space above the liquid.
Unless the effectiveness of the inert blanket can be verified, all
static charge precautions and recommendations should be
observed.
5.4.4 Exercise caution when using equipment made of
aluminum, magnesium, or titanium, which may generate in-
cendiary sparks when struck against rusted steel. Some coun-
tries restrict the use of sampling equipment made from such
materials or from alloys containing more than 15 % (m/m) in
total of these metals or 6 % (m/m) of magnesium.
5.5 Pipeline/Line Sampling—When sampling from a flow-
ing pipeline, maintain electrical continuity between the pipe-
line and the sample container via the connecting pipework. Do
not use plastic containers since they are non-conductive and
will not dissipate static electricity. Use a static grounding
clamp or other arrangement that ensures adequate electrical
FIG. 6 Typical Sample Carrier
continuity is maintained if sampling with a metal container.An
effective ground should be verified.
provided at pipeline sample points. Sample points and related
NOTE 1—The API safety publication Protection Against Ignitions
equipment should be maintained and inspected regularly.
Arising Out of Static, Lightning, and Stray Currents states that electrical
5.3.2 Floating-roof tanks should be sampled from the top resistances of higher than 10 in metal circuits are indicative of a break in
the continuity of the circuit, resulting in the undesirable accumulation of
platform, thereby avoiding descent onto the floating roof.
static electricity.
5.3.2.1 Descending onto a floating roof is normally consid-
5.6 General Health Hazards and Precautions:
ered entering a designated confined space, requiring all facility
5.6.1 Petroleum vapor dilutes oxygen in the air and may
and regulatory requirements to be strictly followed, including
also be toxic. Hydrogen sulfide vapors are particularly hazard-
obtaining a confined space permit, and rescue provisions
ous. Harmful vapors or oxygen deficiency cannot always be
arranged. Toxic and flammable vapors may accumulate on the
detected by smell, visual inspection, or judgment. The use of
roof. Climbing stairs of tanks and descending onto floating
oxygen and toxic gas monitors, PPE, and emergency rescue
roofs can pose an increased safety risk for personnel.
precautions should be considered for all sampling operations.
5.4 Static Electricity Hazards:
Self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) may be necessary.
5.4.1 A number of fires and explosions have occurred as a
Personnel should position themselves upwind of the sample
result of hydrocarbon vapors being ignited by static electricity.
pointtominimizeexposuretoanyharmfulvaporwhichmaybe
If electrical charges are not earthed or grounded, they are
released.
unable to dissipate and become “static.” This static electric
5.6.2 This discussion on safety and health is not exhaustive.
charge can accumulate and freely migrate to a single point on
The appropriate Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS), API, or
thesamplecontainerbyadifferenceinelectricalpotential,then
ASTM International publication should be consulted, together
jump off as a high-energy spark discharge to a nearby less
with applicable regulatory requirements, and the International
charged surface, often hot and prolonged enough to ignite
SafetyGuideforOilTankersandTerminals(ISGOTT), Safety
nearby hydrocarbon vapors above the lower explosive limit
of Life at Sea (SOLAS), and Oil Companies International
(LEL). This potential shall be managed by safely dissipating
Marine Forum (OCIMF), while always observing company
static charges, and through proper grounding, when sampling
and local health and safety requirements.
flammable products.
5.4.2 Footwear or clothing, capable of causing sparks,
6. Apparatus
should not to be worn during sampling activities in which
6.1 General Sample Container Design Considerations:
flammable vapors are likely to be present. Sampling should not
6.1.1 Sample containers come in a variety of shapes, sizes,
be carried out during periods of atmospheric electric distur-
and materials. Select the proper container based on the product
bance or hail storms. To ground any static charge on their
to be sampled to ensure that there will be no interaction
person, the individual performing the sampling should touch
part of the tank structure at least 1 m (3 ft) from the sample
point immediately before sampling.
Protection Against Ignitions Arising Out of Static, Lightning, and Stray
5.4.3 Precautions are to be observed before sampling to
Currents, Edition 7, American Petroleum Institute, Washington, DC, 2008.
reduce the likelihood of a static charge being present. During
International Safety Guide for Oil Tankers and Terminals (ISGOTT), Hyperion
Books, 2006.
tank filling or mixing operations, and for 30 min after the
International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS), International
completion, sampling equipment shall not be introduced into,
Maritime Organization, London, UK, 1974.
or remain in, the tank. With full observance of applicable
Available from Oil Companies International Marine Forum (OCIMF), 29
regulatory requirements, and only under very specific and Queen Anne’s Gate, London SW1H 9BU, U.K., http://www.ocimf.com.
D4057 − 22
between the product sampled and the container that would
affect the integrity of either. The following are general design
considerations for sample containers:
6.1.1.1 No internal pockets or dead spots;
6.1.1.2 Internal surfaces designed to minimize corrosion,
encrustation, and water/sediment clingage;
6.1.1.3 An inspection cover/closure of sufficient size to
facilitate filling, inspection, and cleaning;
6.1.1.4 Designed to allow the preparation, and transfer to
the analytical apparatus, of a homogeneous mixture of the
samplewhileminimizingthelossofanyconstituentsthataffect
the representativeness of the sample and the accuracy of the
analytical tests.
6.1.2 Additional considerations in the selection of sample
containers are the type of mixing required before transferring
from the primary container, and the analysis to be performed.
To facilitate the discussion on proper handling and mixing of
samples, sample containers are referred to as either primary or
intermediate containers. Regardless of the type of sample
container used, the sample container should be large enough to
contain the required sample volume and sufficient ullage space
for thermal expansion and mixing of the sample.
6.1.3 While this practice is meant to provide some guidance
related to particular products and tests, it remains the respon-
sibility of the subcommittee for the relevant test method to
provide specific guidance regarding sample container
selection, preparation, cleanliness, and sample size require-
ments for testing and retention. Also refer to Practice D5854
(API MPMS Chapter 8.3), Practice D5842 (API MPMS Chap-
FIG. 7 Amber and Clear Boston Round Bottles
ter 8.4), and Practice D4306.
6.2 Glass Bottles—See Fig. 7. Glass containers are suitable
for many sample test and storage requirements. Clear glass
This is to avoid sample contamination or sample bottle failure.
bottles can be easily examined visually for cleanliness, and
Used engine oil samples that may have been subjected to fuel
allow for visual inspection of the sample for haze (cloudiness),
dilution should not be stored in plastic containers. Plastic
discoloration, free water, and solid impurities.The brown glass
bottles do have an advantage in that they will not shatter like
bottle affords some protection to the samples when light may
glass or corrode like metal containers.
affect the test results. Refer to Practice D5854 (API MPMS
6.5 Container Closures:
Chapter 8.3).
6.5.1 Screwcapsmadeofamaterialthatwillnotdeteriorate
6.3 Cans—When using cans, any seams shall have been
or contaminate the sample are to be used for glass bottles.
soldered on the exterior surfaces with a flux of rosin in a
Screw caps should provide a vapor-tight seal. Use care when
suitable solvent. Such a flux is easily removed with gasoline,
using cork stoppers. Situations in which corks should not be
whereas many others are very difficult to remove. Cans made
used include: liquids in which loss of light ends may affect any
ofstainlesssteelwithweldedseams,andaluminumbottles,are
test results; and liquids that are hygroscopic or have a
suitable for many sampling operations, but cleanliness is still
low-water content specification. Rubber stoppers are not to be
required. Minute traces of flux may contaminate the sample so
used.
that results obtained on tests such as dielectric strength,
6.5.2 Cans and plastic bottles should be closed with screw
oxidation resistance, and sludge formation may be erroneous.
caps made of the same material as the container. Protect can
For aviation fuel sampling, refer to Practice D4306.
screw caps with a disk faced with a material that will not
deteriorate or contaminate the sample when used to store or
6.4 Plastic Bottles—In general, plastic bottles made of
transport samples. Consideration of closure type is important
suitable material may be used for the handling and storage of
for samples in which vapor loss will affect the test results.
diesel oil, fuel oil, and lubricating oil. Bottles of this type
Screw caps of a quality that provide a vapor-tight closure
should not be used for gasoline, aviation jet fuel, kerosene,
should be used for plastic bottles and cans. Use screw caps for
crude oil, white spirit, medicinal white oil, or other petroleum
containers used to take samples that will be tested for density
products unless testing indicates there is no problem with
or API gravity.
so
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