Tom, Here is some information that was added to the annex of NFPA 110. Fuel is often tested for the generators at VA medical centers. I don't have the details, but could get them if necessary. I believe that this testing is pretty common.
Pete A.7.9.1.2 Commercial distillate fuel oils used in modern diesel engines are subject to various detrimental effects. The origin of the crude oil, refinement processing techniques, time of year, and geographical consumption location all aid in the determination of fuel blend formulas. Sulfur, naturally occurring gums, waxes, soluble metallic soaps, water, dirt, and temperature all begin to degrade fuel as it is handled and stored. These effects begin at the time of fuel refinement and continue until consumption. Proper fuel storage is critical to engine start-up, efficiency, and longevity. Storage tanks should be kept water-free and have provisions for drainage on a scheduled basis. Water can contribute to steel tank corrosion and the potential development of microbiological growth where fuel and water interface. Copper and its alloys, along with zinc or zinc coatings, should be avoided in fuel-handling systems. These elements can react with fuel to form certain gels or organic acids, resulting in clogging of filters or further system corrosion. Stable storage temperatures are conducive to fuel health. Tanks that are aboveground and subject to extreme daily temperature variations cause fuel to degrade more rapidly. This is further exacerbated with large aboveground tanks that are less than full. Airspace allows for condensation that can further add to the contaminant levels. Reflective exterior tank coatings reduce but do not eliminate the solar heating effect. Scheduled fuel maintenance and testing help to reduce or nearly eliminate fuel contamination. Fuel maintenance filtration can remove contaminants and water and return fuel to conditions where it will provide reliability and efficiency for standby generators when called upon in emergency conditions. Fuel maintenance and testing should begin the day of installation and first fill to establish a benchmark guideline for further comparison. Fuel monitoring and testing services are available nationwide from many companies. -----Original Message----- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Tom Duross Sent: Thursday, June 28, 2007 7:27 AM To: [email protected] Subject: Diesel Test Can anyone give me some advice on getting fuel tested? I have a request from a client to take a sample and have it tested. What do I test it for? I suggested having the 10 yr. old supply reclaimed and replaced but he wants it tested. Is there protocol or an NFPA recommended procedure? I have a call into the local diesel mechanics that do the pumps and generators. It's on Harvard's campus grounds so I'm sure every EPA regulation and then some applies. Thanks in advance, Tom Duross Go Red Sox _______________________________________________ Sprinklerforum mailing list [email protected] http://lists.firesprinkler.org/mailman/listinfo/sprinklerforum To Unsubscribe, send an email to:[EMAIL PROTECTED] (Put the word unsubscribe in the subject field) _______________________________________________ Sprinklerforum mailing list [email protected] http://lists.firesprinkler.org/mailman/listinfo/sprinklerforum To Unsubscribe, send an email to:[EMAIL PROTECTED] (Put the word unsubscribe in the subject field)
