API Gravity
API Gravity is a standard way to measure how heavy or light oil is compared to water. It's like a grading system for oil - the higher the API Gravity number, the lighter and more valuable the oil typically is. For example, light crude oil has an API Gravity above 31.1, while heavy crude oil has an API below 22.3. This measurement helps oil companies determine the oil's quality, price, and how easy it will be to extract and process. The term "API" comes from the American Petroleum Institute, which created this measurement standard that's now used worldwide.
Examples in Resumes
Managed extraction processes for wells producing oil with API Gravity ratings between 32-40
Optimized refining procedures based on API measurements of crude oil samples
Supervised quality control testing including API Gravity assessments for incoming crude shipments
Typical job title: "Petroleum Engineers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Petroleum Engineers
Professional Organizations
Job Boards
Professional Networks
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How does API Gravity affect production strategies and equipment selection?
Expected Answer: A senior engineer should explain how different API Gravity values influence pumping methods, storage requirements, and processing equipment needs. They should discuss how this impacts project planning and cost estimations.
Q: What considerations do you make when dealing with varying API Gravity readings across a field?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate understanding of how to manage multiple oil qualities in production, blending strategies, and how to optimize extraction methods for different gravity ratings.
Mid Level Questions
Q: How do you measure API Gravity and what are the common challenges?
Expected Answer: Should be able to explain the basic measurement process using hydrometers, temperature corrections, and common issues that might affect readings.
Q: What API Gravity range is considered optimal for your previous projects and why?
Expected Answer: Should explain typical API Gravity ranges they've worked with and how these values affected production decisions and processing requirements.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What is API Gravity and why is it important?
Expected Answer: Should be able to explain that API Gravity is a measure of oil density compared to water, and how it affects oil value and processing requirements.
Q: What's the difference between light and heavy crude oil in terms of API Gravity?
Expected Answer: Should know that light crude has higher API Gravity (typically above 31.1) and heavy crude has lower API Gravity (below 22.3), and basic implications of these differences.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic understanding of API Gravity measurements
- Ability to perform routine gravity tests
- Knowledge of safety procedures
- Basic reporting and documentation
Mid (2-5 years)
- Detailed analysis of API Gravity data
- Quality control procedures
- Production optimization based on gravity readings
- Equipment maintenance and calibration
Senior (5+ years)
- Advanced production strategies based on API Gravity
- Project planning and resource allocation
- Team supervision and training
- Technical problem-solving and troubleshooting
Red Flags to Watch For
- Unable to explain basic relationship between API Gravity and oil quality
- Lack of experience with measurement equipment
- No knowledge of safety protocols when handling oil samples
- Poor understanding of how API Gravity affects production processes
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