Checked against the Marketing Discipline Guidelines 2024 (Ver. 1, effective 24.10.2024) on 26 October 2026. Published by MDG Services on 26 October 2026.
The checklist
| Item | Why | What MDG says |
|---|---|---|
| Calibrated hydrometers | Read the density of each sample | Mandatory, calibrated, in good working condition, shown on demand MDG 1.5(vi) |
| Calibrated thermometer | Gives the temperature that goes with the reading | Same clause MDG 1.5(vi); temperature is recorded with density MDG 1.2(viii) |
| ASTM density conversion table (Table 53B) | Brings the reading to 15°C | MDG 1.5(vi) MDG 1.2(iv). See the 15°C calculator |
| Clear glass container | Holds the sample taken from each tanker compartment after about 20 litres are drained | MDG 1.2(viii) |
| Density register | Where every result is written | Annexure 1 format MDG 1.2(xiv) MDG Annexure 1. See the register |
| Whatman 2 filter paper | Petrol quality check, handed to a customer who asks | MDG 1.4.1(a). See the filter paper test |
| Water finding paste | Water in each tanker compartment; a suitable one for ethanol blends | MDG 1.2(vii) |
Which hydrometers
MDG gives the fuel ranges at 15°C MDG 7.6 but no hydrometer scale. The reading is taken at the sample's own temperature, which shifts it. Worked out with the 15°C calculator, a petrol of 720 to 775 at 15°C reads about 697 to 779 between 10°C and 40°C; a diesel of 810 to 845 reads about 792 to 848.
General practice, not an MDG rule: choose hydrometers whose scales cover those readings, and ask your oil company which set it accepts.
What to check
General practice, not an MDG rule:
- Hydrometer: no crack or chip, scale readable, stem clean.
- Thermometer: the liquid column is unbroken and the marks are legible.
- Table: on hand and readable. MDG names no edition, so ask your oil company which one it uses.
- Papers: keep any calibration paper you are given. MDG sets no format.
If something is missing or broken
- No named penalty. MDG's irregularity lists do not name missing density equipment. For unlisted matters the oil company acts after an enquiry MDG 8.5.4.
- The records still fall due. Without the instruments there is no morning or after-tanker density. A missing reference density at an inspection stops sales and supplies of every product and samples are drawn. It is a major irregularity MDG 5.1.9 MDG 8.3, and a failed sample brings the action for adulteration MDG 5.1.9. See the 10 AM rule.
- The circular's kit line. The inspector marks "Q&Q kit" YES or NO Circular 20.03.2025. MDG does not say what it holds, so ask your oil company whether your density set counts.
Questions dealers ask
01Which hydrometer range is needed for diesel density?
MDG names none. Diesel is specified at 810–845 kg/m³ at 15°C, or 820–860 for B8–B20 blends MDG 7.6. General practice, not an MDG rule: choose a set whose scale also covers the shift caused by the sample's temperature.
02What is in a petrol pump density kit?
MDG names calibrated hydrometers and thermometers, the ASTM density conversion table, and any other testing kits or equipment that apply to the outlet MDG 1.5(vi). It does not list the rest. Ask your oil company what it expects.
03Can a digital density meter be used instead of a hydrometer?
MDG names hydrometers and thermometers and adds "any other testing kits" that apply MDG 1.5(vi). It does not mention digital density meters. Ask your oil company before relying on one.
04Who calibrates the hydrometer, and how often?
MDG says the instruments must be calibrated but gives no agency, interval or certificate wording MDG 1.5(vi). Keep whatever calibration paper your oil company gives you.
Read the official text: Marketing Discipline Guidelines 2024 (PDF on Bharat Petroleum's website) (also published on iocl.com).
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