API RP 87 (R2022)

The purpose of this document is to provide the user with recommended ‘field’ methods of sampling, sample handling and analysis for high water content streams up to 50 % water on a volumetric basis. In particular, this RP was developed giving consideration to offshore installations (both floating and fixed platforms). These installations are generally subject to motion and vibrations, have minimal laboratory equipment, and perform S&W analysis with multi-skilled operations personnel as opposed to laboratory chemists. The techniques described, however, are also applicable to onshore locations.

This document provides design and operating guidelines for sampling, sample handling and sample analysis of high water content streams, up to 50 % water by volume. As a guide, this RP targets a relative accuracy of 5 % of reading up to a maximum of 50 % water content as a qualifier for the various methods described herein. For example, the corresponding absolute accuracy for a 10 % water content stream is +/- 0.5 % and for 20 % water content is +/- 1.0 %.