Jet-A to JP-8 Conversion
Frequently asked questions about converting Jet A-1 to JP-8 MIL-SPEC fuel using Hammonds additive injection systems.
When converting from Jet A-1 to JP-8 can it be injected directly into P-3 aircraft?
Typically, additives are blended into the fuel at some point prior to fueling the aircraft. This can be done at the refinery level, supply point, airport/airfield bulk storage, and even at the fuel delivery point. Most military installations have fuel blended either into their bulk storage tank prior to delivery to the fuel truck used to fuel the aircraft. The military is currently transitioning towards blending additives outbound of bulk storage as the fuel is being delivered by the fuel truck to the aircraft.
What equipment can be used to convert to JP-8 fuel with refinery companies oil tank car injecting to fixed unit tank used by Marines?
Hammonds makes fluid-powered as well as meter-paced systems to blend multiple additives such as those used to make JP-8. Hammonds equipment, specifically the Hammonds Model TPI-4T-4A-1, is used exclusively in the battlefield by the U.S. Military and its allies as well as NATO countries who fly U.S. military aircraft.
When converting to JP-8, what is the method to confirm JP-8 product is proper quality?
Assuming that the base Jet A-1 is on spec, FSII can be checked with a Refractometer and SDA can be checked with a conductivity meter. There is no field test for CI/LI additive — it must be verified by volumetric calibration to ensure it is on spec based upon the proper blend ratios. FSII can be tested using ASTM D5006-96. SDA can be tested using ASTM D2624 with meters such as those manufactured by EMCEE.
What is the best way to correct if product quality of JP-8 is not normal?
If the fuel additive (one or more) is off-spec, the blend rates of the additive can be adjusted to bring the fuel back into spec. If the base fuel, the Jet A-1 is off-spec, you will need to refer to the fuel supplier. Solutions vary widely depending upon what the problem is with the fuel.
Can fuel that has been converted to JP-8 be continuously used on P-3 without a problem?
Yes. The P-3 has been approved to operate on the following fuels: JP4, JP5, JP8, Jet A, Jet A-1 and Jet B.
What may be affected on P-3 aircraft if using fuel close to Jet A-1 characteristic?
There should be no ill effects of using Jet A-1.
If non-proper fuel is used, what type of service will be required on the aircraft?
You will need to check with the aircraft manufacturer to determine proper procedures for rectifying the fueling of the aircraft with improper fuels.
When converting from Jet A-1 to JP-8 can you inform us of available additives along with pricing?
The three additives required to make JP-8 are Fuel System Ice Inhibitor (FSII), Corrosion Inhibitor (CI) and Static Dissipating Additive (SDA). There are multiple suppliers worldwide — location and quantity greatly affect price and availability. Hammonds Fuel Additives offers FSII and CI.
Are there technical papers regarding Jet Fuel A-1 and JP-8 effects on a particular aircraft?
We do not have ready access to papers written on specific aircraft. Please check with the aircraft manufacturers for specific documents related to specific aircraft.