Fuel Testing > Jet Fuel Testing > Jet Fuel Storage Stability Testing

Jet Fuel Degradation Storage Problems

Intertek monitors and controls jet fuel quality by performing ASTM and related testing, from samples obtained from fuel storage locations. Depending upon location trained personnel can sample fuels from tanks, lines, trucks and aircraft. Prepaid sample shipment packages are also available to clients for easy sampling and shipping to the labs. Intertekenables clients to monitor jet fuel quality and stability on a world-wide basis.

Intertek provides full specification testing worldwide for JET-A, JP5, JP8, and other aviation fuels. Intertek conforms to government, ASTM, IP, IATA and other recognized specifications and regulations. The jet fuel labs are located on a global basis are are equipped to handle full jet fuel analysis according to ASTM D 1655 protocols.

Jet Fuel degradation during long-term storage:

A common and potentially serious problem is the occurrence of jet fuel degradation during longer term
storage operations. Fuel quality degradation needs to be identified, characterized and addressed whenever
aviation fuel is stored for a length of time.

The tendency for jet fuel to form gum must be regularly monitored in order to avoid problems in the future with aircraft fuel systems. Another potential danger to fuel quality is the growth of bacteria that develops within the product. “Hydrocarbon Utilizing Micro-organisms” develop in untreated diesel & Jet Fuel, causing fuel filter problems. If left untreated, bacteria growth can cause catastrophic problems in the future. This problem is usually overcome by treating the fuels with a biocide containing the element boron.

Adding boron to stored fuel solves one problem but creates another. Boron levels must be monitored to avoid over-treating of the fuel, causing further mechanical damage to the aircraft’s fuel system. A routine system of sampling and testing fuel quality in jet fuel storage tanks and in jet aircraft grounded for extended periods of time is advisable in order to monitor and catch at an early stage any evolving gum or bacterial problems. Such a routine quality control program is cost-effective and can prevent serious and costly problems with stored aircraft and jet fuel when they are called back into service.