Phase Behavior and ThermodynamicsPVT Properties

Watson Characterization Factor from Boiling Point and Specific Gravity Formula

K_w=\frac{T_b^{1/3}}{\gamma_{60}}

Watson Characterization Factor from Boiling Point and Specific Gravity calculates watson characterization factor for pvt properties workflows in phase behavior and thermodynamics.

Calculate

How engineers use this formula

Use this formula when the listed inputs (T_b, gamma_60) are known and the assumptions behind the cited pvt properties relationship match the engineering case being checked.

Assumptions

Input values are representative for the well, reservoir, fluid, or equipment case being evaluated.
The declared units match the field-unit constants used in the formula.
The cited formula applies to the selected petroleum engineering workflow.

Limitations

The calculation does not replace a full engineering model or operating procedure.
Accuracy depends on the source correlation, assumptions, input quality, and unit consistency.

Common mistakes

Mixing unit systems without converting the inputs.
Using default example values as field recommendations.
Applying the formula outside the source assumptions.

Default example

Using the default inputs, K_w equals 11.358699 dimensionless.

T_bR

900

gamma_60dimensionless

0.85

Inputs

T_b

Average Boiling Point

gamma_60

dimensionless

Specific Gravity at 60/60 F

Outputs

K_w

dimensionless

Watson Characterization Factor

T_b

Average Boiling Point

gamma_60

dimensionless

Specific Gravity at 60/60 F

Source and review

reviewed

Petroleum and Natural Gas Laboratory Course Notes, I-Fluid Properties, Mihcakan, I. M., Alkan, K. H., Ugur, Z. (2001)

Mihcakan, I. M., Alkan, K. H., and Ugur, Z. 2001. Petroleum and Natural Gas Laboratory Course Notes, I-Fluid Properties, ITU Petroleum and Natural Gas Engineering, Page 5-2.

source conflict

Source