A knowledge of the water content of crude oil is important in the refining, purchase, sale, or transfer of crude oils.

1.1 This test method covers the determination of water in the range from 0.02 to 2 % in crude oils. Mercaptan and sulfide (S⁻ or H₂S) sulfur are known to interfere with this test method (see Section 5).

1.2 This test method is intended for use with standard Karl Fischer reagent or pyridine-free Karl Fischer reagents.

1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.

1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. Specific precautionary statements are given in Section 7.