FUEL CLEANLINESS-THE SOURCE AND FATE OF CONTAMINANTS FROM REFINERY TO AIRCRAFT

摘要

Each day approximately 5 million barrels of aviation fuel flows through the global refining and distribution network to power over 95,000 flights transporting more than 8 million passengers across the globe to link the peoples of the worlds. To ensure long term aircraft and engine reliability fuel cleanliness is paramount. To meet this goal the Aviation Industry have developed stringent specifications and guidelines. In this paper a detailed study of fuel cleanliness is undertaken. The journey travels from large particles of more than 40 microns which the eye can see, through particle sizing technology of 4 microns and Millipore of 0.8 microns, down to submicron material at the very limits of analytical detection. What type of materials are in aviation fuel? Where do they come from and where do they go? An experimental study covering the supply chain from refinery to aircraft, using a range of analytical techniques, seeks to offer insight and understanding.