API to Density Calculator
Convert API Gravity to density and specific gravity instantly. Designed for petroleum engineers, refinery operators, and oil industry professionals.
Professional petroleum property calculator with multi-unit support and fluid presets for accurate density conversions.
Petroleum Converter
Range: -50 to 150 (higher = lighter liquid)
Click to set typical API value
Industry standard is 60°F (15.6°C)
Advanced Settings
Conversion Results
Enter API gravity value
then click "Calculate" for results
API to Density Calculator
Petroleum liquids are classified by API gravity, but engineering work needs actual density values. This gap between industry terminology and physical measurements creates friction in daily calculations. An API to density calculator bridges that gap quickly.
The Conversion Formula
Example Conversions
| API Gravity | Specific Gravity | Density (kg/m³) | Classification |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10 | 1.000 | 999 | Extra Heavy |
| 20 | 0.934 | 933 | Heavy |
| 30 | 0.876 | 875 | Medium |
| 40 | 0.825 | 824 | Light |
| 50 | 0.780 | 779 | Light |
| 60 | 0.739 | 738 | Very Light |
Understanding API Gravity
API gravity measures how light or heavy a petroleum liquid is compared to water. The scale seems backwards at first — higher API means lighter oil. Water sits at API 10, anything below is heavier than water and sinks.
Crude oils range from about 10 to 50 API. Light crudes (30-40 API) flow easily and yield more gasoline. Heavy crudes (10-20 API) need more processing but often cost less per barrel.
Why Accurate Conversion Matters
Density affects storage tank capacity, pipeline flow rates, shipping weight limits, and refinery processing. A small error in density can mean thousands of dollars difference in transportation costs or product yield.
Standard API gravity is measured at 60°F (15.6°C). Temperature corrections may be needed for field measurements taken at different temperatures.