This document describes the design, use and calibration of volumetric measures (capacity measures) which are intended for use in fixed locations in a laboratory or in the field. This document gives guidance on both standard and non-standard measures. It also covers portable and mobile measures. This document is applicable to the petroleum industry; however, it may be applied more widely to other applications.

This document excludes measures for cryogenic liquids and pressurized measures as used for liquid petroleum gas (LPG) and liquefied natural gas (LNG).

Volumetric measures are classified as test measures or prover tanks depending on capacity and design.

Measures described in this document are primarily designed, calibrated and used to measure volumes from a measure which is wetted and drained for a specified time before use and designated to deliver. Many of the provisions, however, apply equally to measures which are used to measure a volume using a clean and dry measure and designated to contain.

Guidance is given regarding commonly expected uncertainties and calibration specifications.

The document also provides, in Annex A, reference formulae describing the properties of water and other fluids and materials used in volumetric measurement more generally.