The Gross Gallons to Net Gallons Calculator helps convert the measured fuel volume at its observed temperature (gross gallons) into a standardized volume at 60°F (net gallons). This conversion is very important in the oil, gas, and fuel industries because fuel volume changes when the temperature changes. By using this calculator, businesses, regulators, and consumers can ensure that the recorded amount of fuel remains fair, accurate, and consistent no matter the storage or delivery conditions.
This tool belongs to the fuel and petroleum measurement calculators category and is mainly used in logistics, shipping, energy distribution, and fuel sales.
formula
Primary Formula
Net Gallons = Gross Gallons x Volume Correction Factor (VCF)
Volume Correction Factor (VCF) Formula
VCF = 1 – ((Observed Temperature – Standard Temperature) x Coefficient of Thermal Expansion)
Variable Definitions and Values
Gross Gallons: The total liquid volume measured at the current observed temperature.
Observed Temperature: The actual temperature of the liquid in °F.
Standard Temperature: Constant value of 60°F used in the United States.
Coefficient of Thermal Expansion: A liquid-specific value showing how much the volume changes per degree of temperature change.
Common Coefficients for Fuel Types
| Fuel Type | Coefficient of Thermal Expansion |
|---|---|
| Gasoline | 0.00069 |
| Diesel Fuel | 0.00045 |
| Ethanol | 0.00060 |
| Jet Fuel | 0.00046 |
| Biodiesel | 0.00043 |
Reference Table for General Use
This table provides quick reference conversions for common scenarios without needing manual calculation.
| Fuel Type | Gross Gallons | Observed Temp (°F) | Net Gallons (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gasoline | 1000 | 90 | 981 |
| Diesel | 1000 | 90 | 988 |
| Ethanol | 1000 | 90 | 986 |
| Jet Fuel | 1000 | 90 | 987 |
| Biodiesel | 1000 | 90 | 989 |
This table uses the coefficient of thermal expansion values and assumes a 30°F difference from the standard 60°F.
Example
Suppose you have 5000 gross gallons of gasoline stored at 85°F.
Step 1: Identify the coefficient for gasoline: 0.00069.
Step 2: Calculate temperature difference: 85 – 60 = 25.
Step 3: Calculate VCF: 1 – (25 x 0.00069) = 1 – 0.01725 = 0.98275.
Step 4: Apply to formula: Net Gallons = 5000 x 0.98275 = 4913.75.
So, 5000 gross gallons of gasoline at 85°F equals about 4914 net gallons at standard 60°F.
Most Common FAQs
Because fuel expands and contracts with temperature, gross gallons do not represent a consistent measurement. Net gallons ensure fair trade and accurate records by standardizing all measurements at 60°F.
No, each fuel has a unique coefficient of thermal expansion. Gasoline expands more than diesel, for example. That is why different fuels have different correction values.
Yes, but the standard temperature may vary by country. In the US it is 60°F, while in some regions a different reference temperature may be used. The principle remains the same, only the standard value changes.