the jet fuel fungus problem

Microbes thrive wherever there is food and water. Aviation fuel systems are therefore ideal habitats for bacteria, yeasts and moulds. Bugs which grow unchecked can block fuel filters, cause gauging problems and are so corrosive, they can damage the aircraft tank structure.

the jet fuel fungus test

All you need is 10 minutes, a flat, clean surface, a pair of latex gloves & a 200 ml sample to discover which bugs are living in your fuel. The easy to interpret, pregnancy-style test gives a negligible, low or high reading which corresponds to the limits laid down in the IATA Guidance Material on Microbial Contamination in Aviation Fuel tanks. This clearly indicates the aircraft’s fuel system status, and what action to take, if any.

the jet fuel fungus solution

There is no magic bullet to eliminate the problem. A multi-disciplinary approach to fuel hygiene is the key to avoiding the inconvenience and cost of a contaminated fuel tank. Good fuel hygiene entails implementing a risk assessed “rigid housekeeping regime”. The risk of contamination is increased in hot, humid conditions, especially where fuel comes from a source that has fewer quality control checks. Each airline should carry out its own risk assessment to establish an optimum regime. The selected regime should consist of regular water drain checks and at least an annual test of the fuel in every tank, followed by an appropriate fuel tank treatment, if required. Moderate levels of contamination require the use of an approved biocide. Heavy levels of contamination require the tank to emptied, cleaned and a biocide applied.