Jet Fuel A-1, also known as Jet A-1 or Avtur, is a type of aviation fuel commonly used in commercial and military aircraft. It is a kerosene-based fuel designed for use in turbine engines. Jet Fuel A-1 is widely used worldwide and is the standard jet fuel in many countries.
Here are some key characteristics and specifications of Jet Fuel A-1:
Composition: Jet Fuel A-1 is a blend of hydrocarbons derived from crude oil. It consists primarily of straight-chain and branched-chain paraffins, along with a smaller proportion of aromatic compounds.
Color and Appearance: Jet Fuel A-1 is a clear to straw-colored liquid with a relatively low viscosity. It is free of solid particles and visible impurities.
Flash Point: The flash point of Jet Fuel A-1 is the minimum temperature at which it can ignite when exposed to an open flame or spark. It has a flash point above 38 degrees Celsius (100 degrees Fahrenheit).
Freezing Point: Jet Fuel A-1 has a relatively low freezing point, typically around -47 degrees Celsius (-53 degrees Fahrenheit). This low freezing point ensures that the fuel remains in a liquid state even at high altitudes and low temperatures.
Density: The density of Jet Fuel A-1 varies depending on the temperature, but it is typically around 0.8 grams per cubic centimeter (g/cm³) at 15 degrees Celsius (59 degrees Fahrenheit). This relatively low density allows for efficient storage and transportation.
Energy Content: Jet Fuel A-1 has a high energy content, providing a significant amount of energy per unit volume. It has an energy content of approximately 43 megajoules per kilogram (MJ/kg) or 35.6 megajoules per liter (MJ/L).
Specifications: Jet Fuel A-1 must meet specific international specifications to ensure its quality and compatibility with aircraft engines. These specifications cover various parameters, including flash point, freezing point, density, distillation range, sulfur content, and more.
It’s important to note that Jet Fuel A-1 is different from other aviation fuels, such as Jet B (a wide-cut kerosene) or Jet A (common in the United States and Canada). Each fuel type has its own specific characteristics and applications.