FUEL TESTING / ASTM ANALYSIS

A quality fuel analysis is the most important aspect of a fuel management program. It can identify potential causes for fuel filter plugging, smoking, loss of power, poor injector performance, or more importantly equipment failure. Testing also confirms a diesel fuel's sulfur content, biodiesel content and compliance with manufacturer specifications and standards for cleanliness that could affect equipment warranty requirements. Fuel samples must be collected consistently with the intent of managing the fuel in the tank. Failure to properly collect fuel samples will lead to a false sense of security.  

Engine manufacturers recommend using ASTM grade diesel fuel. The diesel fuel has an effect on performance, considerations for safety in storage and handling, maintenance and possible harmful effects to the engine. Engine manufacturers "do not" guarantee fuel quality, nor do fuel dealers guarantee or warranty engines. It is up to the end-user to use the proper recommended fuel, which can vary greatly depending on geographical location and government regulations. Note: analysis can vary considerably from day to day as stored fuel tends to lose the lighter hydrocarbons, gain moisture and form algae as well as undergo many other changes caused by a variety of reasons mostly associated with atmospheric conditions.

Engine manufacturers warranties typically cover defects caused by "material and/or workmanship" for a limited amount of time. Fuel is not warranted under any condition unless it is in a quality diesel fuel management program. The use of products such as diesel fuel is at the discretion of the end-user. An engine manufacturer can refuse a warranty claim based on the use of a fuel that is not recommended for use. If fuel is thought to be the source of a problem it can be analyzed to be sure it falls within the ASTM D975 standard. Again, other considerations may need to be taken into account such as the ambient temperature at which the engine will operate, elevation, etc. Also, local, state and federal regulations vary from one area of the country to the next. It is up to the end-user to use the proper fuel.

Patriot Clean Fuel facilitates site specific testing programs based on the facilities requirements or specific needs.  Contact Patriot Clean Fuel today to set-up your initial site inspection to include a complimentary site inspection to include a complimentary Basic ASTM analysis.

Diesel fuel management

The only way to ensure reliability with any emergency backup system is through preventative maintenance. Generators, ATS units and UPS systems are always included in your pm schedule; however, the most important piece of the Emergency Power System is most always overlooked. During emergency operations when all critical systems are on the generator the most important item is the diesel fuel in the tank. Without a clean fuel supply the emergency equipment will never have the opportunity to function as designed or to operate as anticipated.  

Patriot Clean Fuel’s goal is to provide our customers with reliable, cost-effective fuel management solutions.  Patriot Clean Fuel currently maintains fuel management programs tailored to each sites specific need.  

A standard diesel fuel management program may consist of all or any combination of the following:

• Certified ASTM Fuel Testing and laboratory analysis to trend fuel 
• Water Elimination and extraction of separated water from the tank bottom 
• Fuel reconditioning and remediation to >0.5 micron level 
• Chemical treatment and stabilization 
• Fuel delivery testing and quarantine chemical treatments 
• Complete preventative maintenance programs individually designed by Patriot Clean Fuel 
• Diagnostic fuel and fuel system evaluation 
• Chain of custody fuel analysis 

FUEL SYSTEM COMMISSIONING

The purpose for fuel system commissioning is to validate the existing conditions, system integrations, perform various systems operations inspections, perform fail-over scenarios in a controlled environment, and complete a system flush to ensure reliable integration in the existing infra-structure. This process provides an independent inspection and systems testing deliverable of a new system relative to the physical condition of the mechanical and electrical operations. Inspections will identify and address any potential system deficiencies that could result in impact to the Critical Facility and emergency backup system.

Contrary to belief, the best time to implement a fuel management program is during the commissioning phase of a project. Welding slag, residual pipe tape/dope, water, and construction debris are all forms of contaminants that are typically introduced during the build up phase and if not addressed, will ultimately lead to long term fuel reliability issues.  Completing a thorough commissioning/testing program will improve systems reliability across the board prior to the facility going on-line.