This week, we got a call from a museum that wanted to put its collector plane, an OV-10 Bronco, back into service. It was wondering if there was a risk of contamination of the kerosene in the tanks, or if it could clog the filter.
In fact, fuel stagnation can cause water to settle to the bottom of the tank, resulting in contamination by micro-organisms. Alternating heat and cold, and condensation can accentuate this phenomenon. (see FAQ: Frequently asked questions - FAQ)
Of course, you have to drain the water from the tank first.
Then there are two possible solutions:
- Or you can treat preventively by adding a biocide. But this is only relevant when there is a suspicion of contamination, such as clogged fuel filters. Incidentally, the person who called us was treating with Biobor JF, but this is banned in Europe. However, another treatment is available.
- Either we can make contamination analysis:
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- by micro-organisms: enumeration of micro-organisms according to standard IP385/99;
- by water: search for the presence of water by the NF N12937 standard.
- sediments: particle contamination testing using ASTM D 5452.
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