API

American Petroleum Institute

Abbreviation for American Petroleum Institute, a trade association founded in 1919 with offices in Washington, DC, USA. The API is sponsored by the oil and gas industry and is recognized worldwide. Among its long-term endeavors is the development of standardized testing procedures for drilling equipment, drilling fluids and cements, called API Recommended Practices ("RPs"). The API licenses the use of its monogram (logo), monitors supplier quality assurance methods and sets minimum standards for materials used in drilling and completion operations, called API Specifications ("Specs").