ASTM D4888-06

The measurement of water vapor in natural gas is important because of the gas quality specifications, the corrosive nature of water vapor on pipeline materials, and the effects of water vapor on utilization equipment.

This test method provides inexpensive field screening of water vapor. The system design is such that it may be used by nontechnical personnel with a minimum of proper training.

1.1 This test method covers a procedure for rapid and simple field determination of water vapor in natural gas pipelines. Availabel detector tubes provide a total measuring range of 0.1 to 40 mg/L, although the majority of applications will be on the lower end of this range (that is, under 0.5 mg/L). At least one manufacturer provides tubes that read directly in pounds of water per million cubic feet of gas. See Note 1.

1.2 Detector tubes are usually subject to interferences from gases and vapors other than the target substance. Such interferences may vary among brands because of the use of different detection methods. Consult manufacturer's instructions for specific interference information. Alcohols and glycols will cause interferences on some water vapor tubes because of the presence of the hydroxyl group on those molecules.

1.3 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.