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.
Indeed, fuel stagnation can cause water to settle to the bottom of the tanks and consequently fouling due to contamination by micro-organisms. Alternating hot/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:
- Either we treat preventively by adding a biocide. But this is relevant in cases where there is a suspicion of contamination, such as clogged fuel filters, for example. By the way, the person who called us was treating with Biobor JF, but it is prohibited in Europe. However, another treatment is available.
- Either we can do contamination tests:
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- by microorganisms: enumeration of microorganisms by the IP385/99 standard;
- by water: search for the presence of water by the NF N12937 standard.
- sediment: testing for particulate contamination by the ASTM D 5452 standard.
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