A quality parameter that links to combustion
The hydrogen content of a fuel is linked to its combustion properties, such as the energy it releases and its tendency to form smoke. It is therefore an important parameter for jet fuel, diesel and other middle distillates. Every hydrogen atom in the sample contributes the same signal, so the signal is directly proportional to the hydrogen content.
Where it is used
- Aviation turbine fuel
- Diesel, gas oil and other middle distillates
- Light distillates and heavier residual products, depending on the method
Typical tasks are quality control of refinery and blending streams, checking deliveries, and following the effect of a process change on the product.
Signal proportional to hydrogen
A sample of the fuel is placed in a tube as it is and the proton signal is measured. A calibration with samples of known hydrogen content, measured with the reference method, turns the signal into a percentage. The measurement is quick and can be automated for series of samples.
Recognised test methods
- ASTM D3701 for aviation turbine fuels
- ASTM D4808 for light and middle distillates, gas oils and residual products
- ASTM D7171 for middle distillates
These are low-resolution NMR methods for hydrogen content. Which of them applies depends on the product and on your specification, and this should be confirmed before the method is set up.
What it adds
- No solvents, no dilution and no waste
- A short measurement time, suitable for control of streams in a refinery laboratory
- Non-destructive, so the sample is not changed
- Automation for many samples
Points that matter in practice
- Control the temperature of the sample, since it affects the signal and the density of the fuel
- Samples that lose light components by evaporation should be kept in closed containers
- Check the calibration regularly with reference fuels
- Compliance with a standard has to be confirmed for the exact instrument, software version and method that you use
From your fuels to a routine method
Send or bring representative samples. MSY Consulting runs feasibility measurements, plans the calibration against your reference, and trains your team until the method is part of your routine.
Let's talk about your application
Send an email describing your instrument and your application, and you will get a reply.
contact@msyconsulting.euMSY CONSULTING SAS · Wissembourg, France · LinkedIn