Evaluation of Purging Solutions for Military Fuel Tanks

摘要

Citrikleen is a terpene based solvent and its component is derived from d-limonene or pine tree. It is also a biodegradable water based solvent. Because of this property, US Army has used this environmentally friendly solvent as a purging solution in all military fuel tanks including Heavy Expanded Mobility Truck (HEMTT) for the last eight years. Recently, TACOM Logistic Assistance Representative (LAR) reported that Citrikleen solvent damages rubber seal equipped in Tank and Pump Units (TPUs), HEMTTs, and 5000 gallons of fuel delivery trucks. To clarity this problem, a seal compatibility test was conducted with Citrikleen solvents according to the ASTM D 471 test method for Rubber Property-Effect of Liquids. To draw a baseline for this evaluation, two fuel samples (i.e., JP-8 and DF-2) were tested along with Citrikleen. In addition, three more solvent were also tested to make a comparison against Citrikleen solvent Based on the seal compatibility test results, this paper summarizes test results and findings, and redefines Citrikleen solvent as a purging solution for military fuel tanks.