About

In logistics and aviation, fuel is almost always traded and calculated by weight (kg or tonnes) to ensure accurate mass balance, yet tanks are measured by volume (Liters). The disconnect arises because fuel expands significantly with heat. 1,000 kg of diesel takes up more space at noon (30°C) than it does at dawn (10°C).

This tool is essential for load planners and tanker operators. It calculates the volume of fuel based on mass and temperature, using specific coefficients of thermal expansion. It supports standard grades including Gasoline, Diesel, and Jet A-1. Ignoring temperature corrections in bulk transport can lead to tank overflows or accusations of short-delivery.

Formulas

The calculation uses the standard reference density at 15°C and adjusts for the user"s input temperature (T) using the thermal expansion coefficient (α).

ρ_T = ρ₁₅ × (1 − α(T − 15))

Once the corrected density is found, the volume is derived from mass:

V = mρ_T

Reference Data

Fuel Type	Density @ 15°C (kg/L)	Expansion Coeff. (per °C)	1 Tonne Volume @ 15°C	1 Tonne Volume @ 30°C
Gasoline (Regular)	0.745	0.0009	1,342 L	1,360 L
Gasoline (Premium)	0.755	0.0009	1,324 L	1,342 L
Diesel (Automotive)	0.835	0.0008	1,197 L	1,211 L
Diesel (Marine MGO)	0.860	0.0007	1,162 L	1,174 L
Jet A-1	0.804	0.0009	1,243 L	1,260 L
Avgas 100LL	0.720	0.0010	1,388 L	1,409 L
Biodiesel (B100)	0.880	0.0008	1,136 L	1,149 L
Kerosene	0.800	0.0009	1,250 L	1,267 L

Frequently Asked Questions

15°C is the standard reference temperature used by the petroleum industry (ASTM/API standards) for calculating density and volume billing. Even if fuel is delivered at 30°C, the invoice is often adjusted back to what the volume would be at 15°C.

Roughly 0.1% per degree Celsius for Gasoline and 0.08% for Diesel. While small, a 20-degree swing in a 30,000-liter tanker can mean a difference of over 500 liters.

Jet A-1 is the standard kerosene-based fuel used in turbine engines (passenger planes). Its density must be monitored strictly for weight-and-balance calculations on aircraft.

This tool provides a close operational estimate. Legal custody transfer requires certified flow meters and ASTM Table 54B corrections which involve more complex polynomial calculations.