This test method describes the laboratory determination of water and sediment in crude oils by means of the centrifuge procedure. This centrifuge method for determining water and sediment in crude oils is not entirely satisfactory. The amount of water detected is almost always lower than the actual water content.
When a highly accurate value is required, the revised procedures for water by distillation, Test Method D4006 (API MPMSChapter 10.2) (Note 1), and sediment by extraction, Test Method D473 (API MPMS Chapter 10.1), shall be used.