ASTM D4054/2a: New Standard Expands Testing for Aviation Fuels
The latest update to ASTM D4054, the Standard Practice for Evaluation of New Aviation Turbine Fuels and Fuel Additives, introduces critical advancements in fuel testing, including the incorporation of IP 617 (ASTM D8183) and IP 638. These additions mark a significant step forward in ensuring the safety and performance of synthetic aviation fuels
New Inclusion: Indicated Cetane Number (ICN) Testing
ASTM D4054 now includes IP 617 (ASTM D8183), (AFIDA) which measures the Indicated Cetane Number (ICN) to assess fuel ignition characteristics. ICN values range from 35 to 60, aligning with recommendations from aircraft and engine manufacturers to mitigate risks such as Lean Blowout (LBO), an undesirable condition where the fuel-air ratio decreases to the point of flame extinction in a gas turbine.
The adoption of ICN testing is supported by the research report RR:D02-2081, which confirms that ICN provides a reliable predictor for LBO, with superior reproducibility precision (R) when compared to Derived Cetane Number (DCN) measured by ASTM D6890.
Findings from the U.S. National Jet Fuel Combustion Program and extensive testing by Stanhope-Seta and the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) demonstrate that ICN correlates strongly with LBO behaviour, enhancing the ability to evaluate synthetic aviation turbine fuels more effectively.
AFIDA – Indicated Cetane Number Analyser SA6000-0
Stanhope-Seta’s AFIDA – Indicated Cetane Number Analyser is a state-of-the-art instrument for precisely measuring ICN in fuels. Designed for efficiency and accuracy, AFIDA employs a constant volume combustion chamber (CVCC) method to deliver highly reproducible ICN values. The analyser offers:
- Automated sample handling for ease of use
- High precision measurement with low sample consumption
- Direct correlation to ASTM D613 cetane number values
The AFIDA analyser plays a crucial role in ensuring compliance with ASTM D4054 and supports the evaluation of synthetic and conventional aviation fuels. For more details, visit our product page: AFIDA Indicated Cetane Number Analyser.
IP 638: Advancing Fuel Property Analysis
Another key update to ASTM D4054 is the inclusion of IP 638 (JetDC), which determines Relative Permittivity and Density for aviation fuels, covering Avgas, Jet Fuel, and Synthetic Blend Components. The updated standard establishes the following measurement ranges:
- Relative Permittivity (Dielectric Constant): 1.9 to 2.4
- Density: 680.6 to 876.7 kg/m³
The properties measured are used in aircraft fuel tank gauging systems to help estimate the mass of fuel on board the aircraft – new synthetic blend components are assessed through IP 638 analysis to ensure that relative permittivity and density behaviour is similar to conventional jet fuels. This addition ensures comprehensive testing for alternative and synthetic aviation fuels, improving their compatibility and performance predictability.
JetDC 88500-0
The Stanhope-Seta JetDC is an automated, benchtop instrument, used to simultaneously determine the relative permittivity (dielectric constant), density and temperature of aviation turbine fuel and fuel containing synthesised hydrocarbons and synthetic blending components.
- Automated measurement with a user-friendly interface
- Minimal operator involvement enhancing repeatability and reducing errors
- Rapid test less than 15 minutes
JetDC ensures compliance with industry standards and supports the evaluation of new synthetic aviation turbine fuels. Learn more: JetDC Derived Cetane Number Analyser
Implications for the Aviation Fuel Industry
These updates reinforce ASTM D4054’s role as a benchmark for evaluating new aviation turbine fuels. By integrating ICN and expanding analysis through IP 638, fuel manufacturers and regulatory bodies gain more robust tools to assess synthetic fuel performance, ensuring alignment with conventional jet fuel properties while maintaining strict safety standards.
Stanhope-Seta remains at the forefront of fuel testing innovations, contributing to the industry’s transition toward sustainable aviation fuels (SAF).