Energy Institute issues an improved test method to help predict diesel winter performance
The Energy Institute (EI) has been working to improve the test methods for predicting winter performance of diesel fuels – especially those containing significant amounts of biodiesel.
One particularly important winter performance parameter is the cold soak filter blocking tendency of the fuel. The existing EI test method is IP PM-EA/08, ‘Determination of filter blocking tendency of fatty acid methyl esters – cold soak and filtration method’.
The test method comprises of a sample pre-treatment step which involves warming the sample to 60°C (in order to remove its thermal history) before the “cold soak”. During the cold soak the sample is chilled to 5°C and held at this temperature for 16 hours. After the cold soak the filter blocking tendency is determined using IP 387 Procedure B.
The cold soak filterability test was further developed after a joint workshop between the EI and European Committee for Standardization (CEN) Working Group 31. Recent work by WG31 has targeted sources of variability in the procedure and a draft CEN method has been developed.
The EI has now incorporated all of the recent developments and enhancements into an updated proposed method – IP PM-EA/13. Significant enhancements to the method include changes to the sample preparation step and cold soak apparatus and the introduction of a verification standard.
This winter IP PM-EA/13 is being used by the fuels supply industry and other interested parties to feedback performance and user experiences to ensure the method is robust and fit for purpose. This will enable WG31 to further optimise the draft CEN test method. A precision study could then take place in 2014.
– ENDS –
IP PM EA: Determination of the filter blocking tendency of fatty acid methyl esters – Cold soak and filtration method
ISBN: IPPMEA2936795
Price: £30.00
Order online at www.energypublishing.org
For further information, please contact:
Katie Crabb, Communications Manager, Energy Institute
t: +44 (0)20 7467 7173, e: [email protected]
Notes to editor: The Energy Institute (EI) is the leading chartered professional membership body for the energy industry, supporting over 19,000 individuals working in or studying energy and 250 energy companies worldwide. The EI provides learning and networking opportunities to support professional development, as well as professional recognition and technical and scientific knowledge resources on energy in all its forms and applications. The EI’s purpose is to develop and disseminate knowledge, skills and good practice towards a safe, secure and sustainable energy system. A registered charity, the EI serves society with independence, professionalism and a wealth of expertise in energy matters. For more information, please visitwww.energyinst.org
Each year the EI undertakes a focused technical work programme that comprises original independent research and investigations, technical responses to legislation and regulation, workshops and seminars to provide the international energy industry with information and guidance on relevant technical issues. This work is defined by the EI’s Scientific and Technical Committee (STAC) and is supported by the EI’s Technical Partners. The results of this work are made available through technical publications and events for the purpose of disseminating guidance and good industry practice as widely as possible. For the full range of EI technical publications, please visit: www.energypublishing.org
