1543 e1 fm Documentation, Monitoring and Laboratory Testing of Aviation Fuel During Shipment from Refinery to Airport API RECOMMENDED PRACTICE 1543 FIRST EDITION, JULY 2009 ` , , , , , ` ` ` , ` ` ` ,[.]
Sampling
Personnel must follow clearly defined procedures and use appropriate equipment for sampling to ensure that the samples accurately represent the material Incorrect sampling can lead to off-specification products being approved for aviation use, causing delays and extra costs due to the need for repeat sampling and testing All sampling activities should comply with the latest standards set by API MPMS Ch 8, ASTM D4057, and ASTM D4306.
Equipment—Hydrometers and Thermometers
Hydrometers and thermometers used for API Gravity (or density) quality control checks shall meet the requirements of the relevant standards below.
— Thermometers ASTM E1 or EI Appendix A.
— Thermo-hydrometers for Jet A/A-1 ASTM 255HL and ASTM 55HL.
— Thermo-hydrometers for Aviation Gasoline ASTM 258HL and ASTM 58HL.
— Anton Paar DMA 35N Handheld Densitometer (Intrinsically Safe Model) They shall be operated in accordance with ASTM/EI 559/08 which includes cleaning and calibration instructions.
Alternate thermometers, such as those using non-mercury fluids for health and environmental compliance, can be utilized for product quality checks if they do not meet standard requirements These thermometers must have scale increments of 0.5 °C (1 °F) or less In the event of a dispute involving field-type instruments, the aforementioned thermometers will serve as the referee method.
Thermo-hydrometers are specialized instruments that combine a hydrometer and an internal thermometer within the bulb These devices are frequently utilized in field applications, and to ensure accurate measurements during field checks, it is essential that their scale graduations are marked in increments of 0.5 °C (1 °F) or smaller.
General
The batch system ensures traceability of products from the point of manufacture, forming the foundation of any fuel quality monitoring program Each approved aviation fuel batch receives a unique and traceable reference number When new product is added to an existing batch, a new batch is created, as the integrity of the original batch is compromised.
D OCUMENTATION , M ONITORING AND L ABORATORY T ESTING OF A VIATION F UEL D URING S HIPMENT FROM R EFINERY TO A IRPORT 7
When documentary evidence confirms that a product belongs to a specific batch associated with a related RQC or COA, only the necessary recertification tests need to be conducted to ensure that the product quality remains unchanged.
Test results will be compared to the expected outcomes derived from a weighted average of previous tank recertifications and receiving batch quality certificates, ensuring compliance with specification limits If any results show non-compliance with applicable specifications or exceed allowable variance, the product will be quarantined until further testing confirms its quality for aviation use.
If a quality certificate is missing for a product received in pre-airfield or airfield storage, a complete Certificate of Analysis (COA) test must be conducted according to the applicable fuel specifications before the product can be released.
Refinery
Once the storage tank at the refinery is filled to its designated capacity with aviation fuel, it will be isolated from the production units and other transfer lines The fuel will then undergo testing to ensure it meets the relevant specifications, and a Refinery Quality Certificate (RQC) will be issued.
When a product is transferred between storage tanks within a refinery before shipment, it must be batched after each movement If the transfer occurs through a dedicated and segregated piping system, laboratory testing is not necessary; however, a control check should be conducted on upper, middle, and lower samples from each tank to assess layering Additionally, a composite sample from the storage tank must be prepared, and a control test should be performed to determine the new batch API Gravity for that tank.
If a dedicated and segregated piping system is not used for transfers, a recertification test on a composite sample from each storage tank must be conducted After transfers within the refinery, a new batch number will be assigned, and a batch makeup record will be created This record will accompany the release document, serving as evidence of the new batch's API Gravity and identifying the relevant RQC(s) and, if applicable, the recertification test report(s) that constitute this new batch.
6.2.2 Shipment from Refinery into a Pipeline
Care shall be exercised to ensure product integrity after the refinery shipping tank or tanks have been certified (see 6.1)
When the line from the shipping tank to the pipeline injection point is dedicated and properly segregated, the risk of contamination is minimal In this case, only a control check is necessary at the beginning of each shipment during the transfer to the pipeline Further testing may be conducted according to local practices or the experience of refinery or pipeline operators.
To ensure product quality during transfer, it is essential to monitor the line from the shipping tank to the pipeline injection point, especially if it is not dedicated or lacks proper segregation safeguards Control tests and flash point tests for jet fuel must be conducted using an approved method, with samples taken from the head, middle, and tail of each tank shipment to check for contamination Pumping should cease if the measured gravity deviates by ±0.7 °API from the batch value, if the flash point falls outside the reproducibility limits, or if any dirt, water, or unusual color is detected Additional testing may be carried out based on the refinery or pipeline operators' local practices and experience.
A one-gallon composite sample must be collected from the issuing tank and a one-gallon line composite sample should be taken as close to the pipeline injection point as possible If multiple tanks are involved in the pipeline shipment, a one-gallon composite sample from each tank, along with line composite samples from each issuing tank near the injection point, must be obtained and retained for 30 days.
Design, construction, operations, maintenance and inspection requirements for refinery operated storage tanks, filtration systems if used, can be found in API 1595.
The use of ground fuels that include or are solely composed of bio-components, such as FAME, raises concerns in refineries This is particularly important when these biofuels are transported through shared piping and equipment, including pumps, meters, and valves, that also manage aviation-grade fuels.
Refineries that co-transport aviation fuels and ground fuels containing FAME using shared piping or ancillary equipment must implement a management of change (MOC) process This process is essential to identify and establish additional safeguards necessary to maintain the integrity of aviation fuel Key issues to be considered include, but are not limited to, the following factors.
Inspect facilities for potential sources of low-level cross-contamination, focusing on key areas such as ingress and egress manifolds, pump stations, valve integrity, dead legs, and meter bays.
2) Review operating procedures associated with these facilities to ensure they are effective at preventing low level contamination.
NOTE 1 m 3 B5 in 10,000 m 3 jet fuels is equivalent to 5 ppm FAME in jet fuel.
Pipeline
Well-defined procedures shall be developed and implemented to eliminate the opportunities for contamination in any pipeline network that handles aviation products.
The pipeline owner/operator must establish a thorough aviation fuel quality assurance and monitoring program that aligns with industry standards, local practices, and past experiences to ensure fuel quality during transit This program should include in-transit testing for specific fuel properties and contaminants, such as particulate matter, water, and surfactant levels Additionally, it is advisable to incorporate random full specification testing to further safeguard fuel quality.
In non-fungible product systems, pipeline owner/operators must ensure that the original batch identity of the fuel is preserved They are required to maintain a system for forwarding RQCs, COAs, and recertification test certificates to receiving terminals or airports prior to the arrival of the product.
The increasing use of ground fuels, particularly those containing bio-components like FAME, raises significant concerns for pipelines that transport aviation fuels Operators must implement a Management of Change (MOC) process when co-transporting aviation fuel with ground fuels to identify necessary safeguards for maintaining the integrity of the aviation fuel Key issues to consider in this process include, but are not limited to, the following factors.
Inspect facilities for potential sources of low-level cross-contamination, focusing on key areas such as ingress and egress manifolds, pump stations, valve integrity, dead legs, and meter bays.
2) Review operating procedures associated with these facilities to ensure they are effective at preventing low level contamination.
NOTE 1 m 3 B5 in 10,000 m 3 jet fuels is equivalent to 5 ppm FAME in jet fuel.
D OCUMENTATION , M ONITORING AND L ABORATORY T ESTING OF A VIATION F UEL D URING S HIPMENT FROM R EFINERY TO A IRPORT 9
Contamination from additives in non-aviation products can significantly impact aviation fuel properties, rendering it off specification and unsuitable for use It is essential to conduct a risk-based review of controls to prevent accidental mixing of non-aviation products with aviation fuels When introducing new additives in non-aviation fuels, a Management of Change (MOC) process must be implemented to identify necessary safeguards for aviation fuel preservation during shipment Additionally, pipeline corrosion inhibitors must not be added to aviation fuels If non-aviation products contain Drag Reducing Agents (DRA), the injection should cease two hours prior to and resume two hours after the aviation grade fuel has passed the injection point.
To minimize the risk of mixing at interface boundaries during no-flow conditions, it is essential to limit the duration that the time product remains static in the pipeline, as outlined in API 1595 for pipeline operations.
For all pipeline shipments, it is essential to cross-reference the batch number assigned by the pipeline with the batch number on the delivery document (DD) and the original quality documentation or release certificate The quality documentation from the injection point must be sent directly to the receiving installation by the pipeline operator.
In a pipeline delivery system, it is crucial to minimize the mixing of multiple batches when transferring products in and out of intermediate tankage before reaching the designated receiving installation Avoiding commingling is essential to maintain batch identity and prevent any loss of product integrity.
A "fungible batch" refers to a collection of products that adhere to the specifications set by pipeline operators and are mixed with other products that meet the same criteria In such instances, it is not feasible to trace the batches back to their original injection points, RQCs, COAs, or recertification certificates.
Multiproduct fungible pipeline systems are designed to obscure the traceability of individual shipments Nevertheless, the fundamental principles governing product movements remain applicable, regardless of whether the pipeline operates as a fungible or segregated system.
For every pipeline shipment, it is essential to cross-reference the batch number assigned by the pipeline with the batch number from the original quality documentation and/or release certificate on the delivery document (DD).
The pipeline operator is responsible for maintaining quality documentation from the injection point, as outlined in section 6.1 and the related pipeline DD However, this documentation does not need to be sent to the receiving terminals or airports.
6.3.3 Notification of Quality Assurance and Aviation Fuel Monitoring Program Results
The pipeline quality assurance program provides crucial data on shipped products, enabling receiving sites to be informed of potential quality issues with the fuel If test results indicate that aviation fuel in transit exhibits changing properties or falls outside specification limits, the receiving site will be promptly notified prior to receipt This timely communication allows the receiving site to formulate an effective corrective action plan.
Regular communication of data regarding free water content and levels of particulates or surfactants in each batch is essential before receipt at the receiving site This practice enables the receiving site to have sufficient time to formulate a corrective action plan for handling any contaminated products.
Shipment by Tanker or Inland/Coastal Waterway Vessel
An independent third-party inspector must be designated to supervise the loading of marine vessels and barges This inspector ensures compliance with the loading procedures established by both the supplier and the receiver, particularly if they are separate legal entities Additionally, the inspector is tasked with maintaining accurate inventory and fuel laboratory testing records.
To ensure the safe transport of aviation fuel, it is essential that ship tanks are dedicated to a single grade of fuel whenever possible If tanks are not dedicated, it is crucial to disclose the previous three cargoes and provide cleaning certificates for review to confirm proper preparation for aviation fuel In cases where multiple products are transported, effective segregation between compartments must be maintained Additionally, shippers of record should implement a documented process to manage changes in compartment grades.
All metal components that come into contact with aviation fuel must not contain zinc, cadmium, copper, or their alloys Additionally, any vessel designated for transporting aviation fuel must receive prior approval if the cargo will be exposed to these metals or alloys.
The increasing use of ground transport fuels that include or are solely composed of bio-components, such as FAME, raises significant concerns for tankers and vessels operating in inland and coastal waterways that transport aviation fuels.
Aviation fuel should not be transported in vessels that previously carried cargoes containing 15% or more FAME It is essential to consult experts for appropriate cleaning procedures when using vessels that have recently held products with FAME among their last three cargoes.
Switching from a cargo containing FAME, such as B5, to jet fuel necessitates a hot water tank wash followed by a fresh water rinse, ideally with an intermediate FAME-free cargo to eliminate any residue When transitioning from neat FAME (B100) to jet fuel, extra precautions are essential, with recommendations suggesting at least three intermediate zero-FAME cargoes in addition to the hot water wash and cold water rinse before loading jet fuel For optimal tank cleaning practices, refer to the EI HM50 guidelines, which provide comprehensive instructions for cleaning tanks and lines in marine tank operations.
Vessels Carrying Petroleum and Refined Products.
Refinery or Intermediate Storage into Marine Vessels or Barges
Before loading begins, it is essential to ensure that the vessel is adequately prepared for transporting aviation fuel A visual inspection and gauging of the compartments to be loaded must be conducted If a visual inspection is not feasible due to an inert gas system, a letter from the ship’s master confirming the vessel's suitability for accepting aviation fuel cargo should be obtained.
Before loading begins, the RQC, COA, and any applicable recertification certificates for each shore tank involved in the cargo must be available A release certificate (RC) is required for any product transfer All quality documentation should be provided on the vessel and communicated electronically or via facsimile to the receiving installation (disport) It is not necessary to assign new batch numbers to shipments transported by marine vessel or barge.
When the line from the storage facility to the loading port is dedicated and positively segregated, the risk of contamination is minimal, requiring only a control check during transfer For shipments from a single tank, a 1-gallon composite sample must be collected from the shore shipping tank and retained for at least 30 days In cases where multiple tanks are involved, a 1-gallon composite sample from each shore tank should be obtained and preserved for 30 days.
To ensure product quality during loading, it is essential to monitor the line from the shipping tank to the load port, especially if it is not dedicated or lacks proper segregation safeguards Line samples must be collected for gravity (density) and visual examination from the head, middle, and tail of each tank shipment to detect any potential contamination.
During the shipment of aviation fuel from the refinery to the airport, it is crucial to monitor and document the fuel quality Pumping should be halted if the measured gravity deviates by more than 0.7 °API from the batch density or if any contaminants, such as dirt or water, are detected Composite samples of one gallon should be collected from the issuing shore tank, along with line samples from the dock line at the head, middle, and tail, and these samples must be retained for 30 days In cases where multiple tanks are utilized for the pipeline shipment, one-gallon composite samples from each shore tank and line samples taken as close to the transfer point as possible should also be collected and preserved for 30 days.
The inspector shall take first-foot middle or running samples from each compartment during loading to check product quality The following properties shall be measured as listed below.
— Appearance Clear and bright—visually free from solid matter and undissolved water at normal ambient temperature.
— API Gravity Within ±0.7 °API of batch gravity.
— Flash Point Within ±5 °F of batch flash point—jet fuel only.
Significant changes in Saybolt color from the RQC/COA compared to the initial batch level should prompt an investigation.
— Saybolt Color ASTM D156 (jet fuel only) as follows in the table below
The initial foot sample results will verify the absence of contamination API Gravity and flash point results will be compared against the shore tank quality certificate If the results exceed specified values or if any dirt, water, or unusual color is detected, vessel loading will be halted, and the responsible party will be notified immediately.
To ensure the safe transport of aviation fuels, it is essential to avoid using ships or coastal vessels equipped with copper or copper alloy heating coils in any of their compartments.
When chartering a vessel with copper or alloy heating coils to transport jet fuel, it is crucial to implement special precautions to ensure product quality Before loading, the supplying installation must test the fuel for thermal stability using the ASTM D3241 JFTOT Procedure at a heater tube control temperature of 275 °C Fuels that fail to meet the 275 °C JFTOT criteria must not be loaded onto vessels equipped with copper heating coils.
After loading is complete, the inspector must collect three 1-gallon (or 5-gallon for aviation gasoline) samples from the multi-tank composite vessel, ensuring to take a middle or running sample from each compartment These samples should be sealed and labeled in the presence of the ship’s responsible officer, as they may be needed for further analysis.
— immediate testing by the supplying refinery, terminal or contract laboratory;
— retention at load port; and
— onboard transportation to the receiving installation (disport)—upon arrival at disport, the inspector shall retain this sample for 30 days.
RQC/COA Saybolt Color Significant Change
The following properties should be measured, as a minimum, on one multi-tank vessel composite sample.
— Appearance Clear and bright—visually free from solid matter and undissolved water at normal ambient temperature.
Significant variations in Saybolt color from the RQC/COA compared to the initial batch level typically warrant an investigation, particularly for jet fuel.
— API Gravity Within ±0.7 °API of batch gravity.
— Flash Point Within ±5 °F of batch flash point (jet fuel only).
— Millipore Color Report only jet fuel.
— Thermal Stability At 260 °C on barges/ships with copper or copper bearing coils, use jet fuel only.
When dealing with cargo that includes multiple batches, comparisons should be made using calculated values that are weighted according to the contribution of each batch If the results of these comparisons exceed specified limits, or if any contaminants such as dirt, water, or unusual colors are detected, the responsible party must be notified immediately The cargo will remain on hold until a satisfactory explanation is provided or it is verified that the cargo complies with all remaining specification properties.
Shipment by Road or Rail Tank Car
Aviation fuel shipments to road or rail tank cars must utilize dedicated and segregated loading lines from the shipping tank In the absence of such lines, it is essential to establish special procedures and quality monitoring standards Additionally, truck trailers and railcars must comply with the specifications outlined in API 1595.
New batch numbers are not necessary for shipments transported by road or rail tank car A report of compliance (RC) must be generated, detailing the pre-loading and post-loading inspection results based on a representative sample taken from the low point of the compartment In the case of multiple compartment tanks, all compartments should be tested, although composite samples can be collected from groups of three compartments to minimize testing Each road or rail car must include the date, batch number, and API Gravity (density).
7 Product Receipt, Sampling, Testing and Release at Pre-airfield Storage Terminals
Documentation
Each product consignment must include documentation verifying compliance with relevant specifications, such as a refinery quality certificate or Certificate of Analysis (COA) If necessary, the latest recertification test certificate (RTC) should also be provided For pipeline receipts, essential details like batch number and API Gravity (density) may be shared while awaiting the arrival of the RQC or COA, along with the RC and DD Proper records must be maintained.
RQC/COA Saybolt Color Significant Change
Documentation, monitoring, and laboratory testing of aviation fuel during shipment from the refinery to the airport are essential All consignments must be received with complete analysis results, and these records, along with supporting documents, should be retained for at least one year.
Receipt—General
For additional detailed requirements on receiving aviation fuels into a pre-airfield storage terminals please refer to API 1595.
After delivery, it is essential to segregate the receipt tank or tanks to prevent contamination from incoming products or to avoid contaminating previously tested and approved tanks The stock must be quarantined, and a new batch number should be assigned to the tank contents, which will be recorded in the batch makeup and clearance log.
After a minimum settling time of 30 minutes, samples from the upper, middle, and lower sections will be collected for a control check If these samples are free of sediment and suspended water, but show API Gravity differences exceeding ±0.7 °API, further tests must be conducted on each sample.
— Jet fuel: density, flash point, initial boiling point, end point.
For laboratory testing, upper, middle, and lower samples must be combined into a single-tank composite sample, while control check samples should be excluded from this composite It is permissible to collect samples for the composite at the same time as the control check samples.
If the product contains suspended water and particulate matter after settling, additional settling time will be permitted before collecting new samples for testing This process will continue until the product is clear of suspended water and sediment.
Once the draining of accumulated water is complete and satisfactory test results are obtained, the product can be officially released to airport storage or the loading rack In situations where a quick turnaround is crucial, and tanks are equipped with inlet/outlet filtration and floating suctions, shorter processing times may be permitted, as outlined in API 1595.
Receipts by Pipeline
Upon receiving aviation products, samples must be collected from the incoming pipeline at the pre-airfield storage terminal, with at least one sample taken at the start and end of the transfer Control check testing is essential to verify product integrity, and if multiple batches are involved, additional checks should occur upon each batch's arrival For large batch receipts exceeding 25,000 bbl, sampling frequency should increase to every four hours Samples should be taken as close as possible to the receiving tank A color membrane filtration test on jet fuel should be conducted on the initial sample of each pipeline receipt to assess particulate levels and identify potential filtration issues, enabling quality trending for further investigation and corrective measures.
If any samples fail a control check, the receipt will be quarantined for investigation Delivery to the airport aviation storage will only occur after receiving clearance from the product quality manager at the pre-airfield storage terminal.
When receiving products from fully segregated storage through a dedicated single-grade pipeline into a fully segregated tank system, only control check testing is necessary at the receiving installation A new batch reference number must be assigned and documented, along with the new batch gravity (density).
If any samples do not pass the control check, the receipt will be placed in quarantine Delivery to aviation storage will only continue once the installation manager has provided clearance.
Recertification testing shall be carried out after receipt of product from a nonsegregated or multiproduct pipeline.
If the RQC or COA for the received product is unavailable, such as in cases of aviation fuel delivered from a fungible or pipeline system with multiple breakout tanks mixing three or more batches, full COA laboratory testing is necessary to ensure the fuel meets specification limits Additionally, when three or more new batches are delivered, the quantity and usage of approved additives in the fuel remain uncertain.
Tanks may be released on receipt of a satisfactory RTC or COA and after being sumped of any free water.
Receipts by Ocean Tanker and Coastal/Inland Waterway Vessel
The inspector is required to collect two 1-gallon multi-tank composite samples, ensuring that each sample includes a middle sample from every compartment for pre-discharge testing and retention These samples must be sealed and labeled in the presence of the ship’s responsible officer One of the multi-tank vessel composite samples will be used to measure the specified properties listed below.
— Appearance Clear and bright—visually free from solid matter and undissolved water at normal ambient temperature.
— API Gravity Within ±0.7 °API of batch gravity.
— Flash Point Within ±5 °F of batch flash point (jet fuel only).
— Millipore Color Report only (jet fuel only).
— Thermal Stability At 260 °C (on barges/ships with copper or copper bearing coils—use jet fuel only).
Significant changes in Saybolt color from the RQC/COA, when compared to the multi-tank composite sample, typically warrant further investigation.
— Saybolt Color ASTM D156 (jet fuel only):
Discharge can begin if test results fall within acceptable limits; however, if the results do not meet the required criteria, discharge will be halted, and the responsible party will be notified immediately.
Upon receipt, each tank must be securely isolated to prevent contamination from incoming products or from previously tested and approved products in other tanks The product should settle for a designated period, during which the tank is inspected for layering, and any accumulated water and sediment should be drained A composite sample from the tank is then taken for recertification testing This testing can only proceed if the RQC or the most recent COA is available for the new receipt, along with the previous quality information for any remaining product in the tank.
RQC/COA Saybolt Color Significant Change
Documentation, monitoring, and laboratory testing of aviation fuel during shipment from the refinery to the airport are crucial If more than three new batches are received into the tank, full Certificate of Analysis (COA) testing must be conducted After settling and draining any accumulated water and sediment, and upon receiving satisfactory test results, the product can be formally released Additionally, a 1-gallon single-tank composite sample (or 5 gallons for aviation gasoline) must be drawn and retained from each receipt tank.
A composite sample must be collected in an approved container, labeled, and sealed in the presence of the ship's responsible officer, and it should be retained at the installation for a duration of 30 days.
Additives must not be introduced to the cargo during loading or transit Any treatment involving additives requires approval from the responsible party and should only be performed at the discharge terminal.
Purchasing cargoes "on the water" requires proper quality documentation, including the RCQ or the latest COA for the cargo, a cleaning certificate detailing the pre-loading cleaning process and the last three cargoes This documentation must include a quality certification statement confirming compliance with relevant specifications, along with information on the type and concentration of all additives present In case of disputes, copies of the latest shore tanks and ships loading quality certificates should be readily available, and marine vessel acceptance requirements must be adhered to.
For cargoes purchased on the water without complete documentation, the following additional pre-discharge instructions apply:
— a middle sample from each compartment shall be obtained and tested for appearance, and gravity, and additionally for jet fuel flash point and MSEP;
A composite sample of the vessel's fuel will be created by combining a middle sample from each compartment, followed by a comprehensive Certificate of Analysis (COA) laboratory test to ensure the fuel meets the specified limits.
Receipts by Road or Rail Tank Car
For additional detailed requirements on receiving aviation fuels into a pre-airfield storage terminal, refer to API 1595.
7.5.2 Receipts from Road/Rail Transport
For optimal efficiency, bulk transport should focus on transporting a single grade of aviation fuel, ensuring that appropriate engineering practices and procedures are implemented to maintain grade selectivity It is essential to carry only one grade of fuel at a time.
Product receipt must occur through dedicated and segregated lines into tankage Each tank should be positively isolated after receipt to prevent contamination from subsequent incoming products and to protect already tested and approved products in other tanks.
The product must settle for a designated time, during which the tank will be inspected for layering, and any accumulated water and sediment will be drained Settling will persist until the product is clear of suspended water and sediment A new batch reference number will be assigned, and the new batch gravity (density) will be documented on the batch makeup and clearance form Additionally, the single-tank composite sample will be kept for 30 days.
Transfers of Fuel within an Intermediate Facility
When moving products within terminal storage tanks before shipment, batching is required after each movement If the movement occurs through a dedicated and segregated piping system, laboratory testing is not necessary; however, control tests must be conducted on upper, middle, and lower samples from each tank to assess layering Additionally, a composite sample from the storage tank is prepared to determine the new batch API Gravity Conversely, if the product is not transferred through a dedicated piping system, a recertification test on a composite sample from each storage tank is mandatory.
A new batch number will be assigned, and a batch makeup record will be created This record will accompany the release document as proof of the new batch API Gravity and will identify the relevant RQC(s) and any applicable recertification test report(s) that constitute this new batch.
Release and Shipment from Intermediate Storage
Aviation fuel shall only be released for delivery to airport depots or loading racks if the following procedures have been satisfactorily completed:
— draining of any significant volumes of water,
— RC (see examples in Annex C and Annex D for road transports and Annex E for pipeline and marine ships and barges).
Each shipment from the site must include a copy of the RC and, if available, the RQC, along with the recertification testing results for the tank fuel being shipped.
Documentation
All product transfers to airport depots must be accompanied by a release document that includes the delivery batch number and gravity Each received consignment must have documentation verifying that the batch complies with the relevant specifications Additionally, it should be possible to trace batches back to the originating RQC or the most recent COA or RTC.
The airport depot manager must verify that the documentation accompanying incoming product consignments is appropriate, clearly marked with a release statement, and properly signed by a representative from the supplying installation.
Records shall be maintained of the consignments received together with results of all analyses These records shall be retained for a minimum of one year.
Receipt—General
Each grade should be received into delivery storage via a segregated line from segregated intermediate storage
After the initial settling, if the product still contains suspended water and particulate matter, additional settling time should be permitted before collecting a new set of samples for a repeat control check If the product remains unclean after this extended settling period, further action may be necessary.
During the shipment of aviation fuel from the refinery to the airport, it is essential to ensure that the fuel is free from suspended water and particulate matter Adequate settling time must be allowed before collecting a new set of samples for testing, and this settling process should continue until the product is completely clear of suspended water and sediment.
For laboratory testing, upper, middle, and lower samples must be combined into a single-tank composite sample, while control check samples should be excluded from this composite It is permissible to collect samples for the composite at the same time as the control check samples.
Once the draining of accumulated water is complete and satisfactory test results are obtained, the product can be officially released for airport storage or loading In cases where quick product turnaround is crucial, and tanks are equipped with separate inlet and outlet filtration along with floating suctions, shorter processing times may be permitted.
Receipts by Pipeline
8.3.1 Receipt by Grade-segregated and Dedicated Pre-airfield Terminal Tankage and Delivery Pipeline to the Airport Tankage
When receiving fuel from segregated storage through a dedicated single-grade pipeline into a segregated airport tank system, a control check is mandatory at the receiving installation Further testing may be necessary, as outlined in the airport site operations standard/manual, such as ATA 103.
The stock shall be quarantined and a new batch number assigned to the tank contents along with the new batch gravity (density) and logged in a batch makeup and clearance record
If any samples do not pass the control check, the receipt will be placed in quarantine Delivery to aviation storage will only continue once the installation manager has approved that the fuel is acceptable.
8.3.2 Receipt by Grade Nonsegregated and/or Dedicated Pre-airfield Terminal Tankage and Delivery
Pipeline to the Airport Tankage
If receipt is from nonsegregated storage and/or via a nondedicated and segregated single-grade pipeline, recertification testing shall be carried out after receipt of product into airport tankage.
After delivery, it is essential to positively isolate the receipt tank or tanks to prevent contamination from incoming products or to avoid contaminating other tested and approved tanks The stock must be quarantined, and a new batch number should be assigned to the tank contents, which will be recorded in the batch makeup and clearance log.
If the RQC, COA, or recertification tests for aviation fuel received from non-grade segregated or dedicated pre-airfield terminal tankage are unavailable, full specification testing (COA) must be conducted This applies to fuel delivered via a fungible pipeline system, a pipeline with multiple breakout tanks mixing three or more different batches, or a nondedicated pre-airfield terminal that does not meet the requirements outlined in Section 7.
A new batch reference number shall be assigned and recorded along with the new batch gravity (density).
If any samples do not pass the control check, recertification, or applicable COA testing, the receipt will be quarantined Delivery to aviation storage will only resume once the installation manager has confirmed that the fuel is acceptable.
Receipt by Marine Vessel
A new batch reference number shall be assigned and the new batch gravity (density) recorded on a batch makeup and clearance form.
Receipt by Road/Rail Transport
Once the control check testing verifies that the product quality meets acceptable standards, the discharge process can begin It is important to note that further pre-discharge testing may be necessary, as outlined in the airport site operations standard/manual, specifically ATA 103.
Product receipt must occur through dedicated and segregated lines into storage tanks Each tank should be positively isolated after receipt to prevent contamination from incoming products or from previously tested and approved products in other tanks The product must settle for a specified duration, during which the tank is checked for layering, and any accumulated water and sediment are drained A composite sample from the single tank is then drawn for control checks.
A new batch reference number will be assigned, and the updated batch gravity (density) will be documented on the batch makeup and clearance form Additionally, the single-tank composite sample will be preserved for a duration of 30 days.
Transfers of Fuel within an Airport Facility
When products are transferred within airport storage tanks before being shipped to the hydrant or load rack, they must be batched after each movement If the transfer occurs through a dedicated and segregated piping system, laboratory testing is not necessary; however, a control test must be conducted on upper, middle, and lower samples from each tank to assess layering Additionally, a composite sample from the storage tank is required to determine the new batch API Gravity.
A new batch number will be assigned, and a batch makeup record will be created This record will serve as evidence of the establishment of the new batch API Gravity and will accompany the release document.
AVGAS 100LL Recertification Test Report (For Fuel Supplied to ASTM D910, Latest Edition)
The examples provided are for illustrative purposes only, and each company should create its own tailored approach These scenarios are not comprehensive or exclusive API disclaims any warranties, whether express or implied, regarding reliance on the information in this document or any omissions therein.
Users should not depend solely on the information in this document; it is essential to apply sound business, scientific, engineering, and safety judgment when utilizing the information provided.
Where applicable, authorities having jurisdiction should be consulted.
Quantity in tank before receipt
Total quantity in tank after receipt
Recovery, % vol 97 min N/A Spec Limit
Residue, % vol 1.5 max N/A Spec Limit
Loss, % vol 1.5 max N/A Spec Limit
Water Rx, vol change, mL D1094 2 max N/A Spec Limit
Reid Vapor Pressure, kPa D323, D5190 or
Corrosion, Copper Strip D130 No 1 max N/A Spec limit
Existent Gum, mg/100 ml D381 3 max 3
Tank checked and released for service by: _ Date: _
NOTE 1 Report the actual test method used on the certificate
NOTE 2 Where minimum/maximum specification limitsare given, the acceptable difference values do not apply to values below the minimum or above the maximum
NOTE 3 The fuel sample shall be “clear, bright and visually free from solid matter and undissolved water at ambient temperature”
The examples provided are for illustrative purposes only, and each company should create its own tailored approach These scenarios are not comprehensive or exclusive API disclaims any warranties, whether express or implied, regarding reliance on the information in this document or any omissions therein.
Users should not depend solely on the information in this document; it is essential to apply sound business, scientific, engineering, and safety judgment when utilizing the information provided.
Where applicable, authorities having jurisdiction should be consulted.
Documentation, Monitoring and Laboratory Testing of Aviation Fuel During Shipments from Refinery to Airport
Quantity in tank before receipt
Total quantity in tank after receipt
Residue, Vol %, max 1.5 N/A N/A Spec Limit
Loss, Vol %, max 1.5 N/A N/A Spec Limit
Density at 15 qC, kg/m 3 OR D1298, D4052 775 – 840 3
Density/API Gravity Tank Composite Sample
3, kg/m 3 or 0.7 API Density/API Gravity
3, kg/m 3 or 0.7 API Density/API Gravity
3, kg/m 3 or 0.7 API Density/API Gravity
Corrosion, Copper Strip, max D130 No 1 N/A Spec Limit
Existent Gum, mg/100ml, max D381, IP540 7 3
Particulate Matter, mg/l, max D5452 1.0 max N/A Spec Limit
Filter Pressure Drop, mm Hg
NOTE 1 Report the actual test method used on the certificate
NOTE 2 Where minimum/maximum specification limits are given, the acceptable difference values do not apply to values below the minimum or above the maximum
NOTE 3 The fuel sample shall be “clear, bright and visually free from solid matter and undissolved water at ambient temperature”
NOTE 4 A significant change (> 5) in Saybolt color may indicate product instability and/or contamination and should be investigated
JFTOT testing is optional but should be conducted if there is suspicion of copper contamination or if recertification results suggest potential contamination The control temperature for the test is set at 260 ºC, and it is important to ensure that there are no Peacock or abnormal color deposits present.
Release Certificate (Road or Rail Cars)
The examples provided are for illustrative purposes only, and each company should create its own tailored approach They should not be viewed as comprehensive or definitive API disclaims any warranties, whether express or implied, regarding reliance on the information in this document or any omissions therein.
Users should not depend solely on the information in this document; it is essential to apply sound business, scientific, engineering, and safety judgment when utilizing the information provided.
Where applicable, authorities having jurisdiction should be consulted.
1 TO BE COMPLETED BY THE SUPPLYING REFINERY OR TERMINAL
Batch API Gravity at 60 °F: Quantity:
2 TO BE COMPLETED BY THE CARRIER (TRUCK) OR LOADING TERMINAL (RAIL CAR)
Pre-Loading Transport Checklist Post-Loading Contents Checklist
(2) If not dedicated, state previous grade:
(7) Correct DOT grade plate displayed?
Clear & Bright? YES / NO Color:
(8) Internal valves opened & contents drained & inspected:
Water free? YES / NO Dirt free? YES / NO
*Up to 3 compartments from one transport may be combined for the API gravity determination.
**If the difference is greater than 0.7 API units, verify the correct batch gravity Notify the terminal immediately Do not depart until the discrepancy is resolved
I certify the product has been handled in accordance with the XXXX company guidelines for loading and delivery of aviation products
3 TO BE COMPLETED BY THE CARRIER (DRIVER) OR TERMINAL STAFF
Additives Type Range Observed Addition
Conductivity Improver Stadis ® 450 50 – 600 pS/m ASTM D2624
Fuel System Icing Inhibitor DiEGME 0.10 – 0.15 vol % ASTM D5006
4 TO BE COMPLETED BY THE RECEIVING FUEL FARM PRIOR TO DISCHARGE
5 TO BE COMPLETED BY THE RECEIVING FUEL FARM AFTER DISCHARGE
Discharge Date Customer Representative Time Signature
Original – Return to XXXX Company with invoice Pink – Give to loading terminal after loading Yellow – Give to customer after unloading Green – Carrier
Release Certificate (Road or Rail Car)
The examples provided are for illustrative purposes only, and each company should create its own tailored approach These scenarios are not comprehensive or exclusive API disclaims any warranties, whether express or implied, regarding reliance on the information in this document or any omissions therein.
Users should not depend solely on the information in this document; it is essential to apply sound business, scientific, engineering, and safety judgment when utilizing the information provided.
Where applicable, authorities having jurisdiction should be consulted.
1 TO BE COMPLETED BY THE SUPPLYING REFINERY OR TERMINAL
Batch API Gravity at 60°F: Quantity:
2 TO BE COMPLETED BY THE CARRIER (TRUCK) OR LOADING TERMINAL (RAIL CAR)
Pre-Loading Transport Checklist Post-Loading Contents Checklist
(2) If not dedicated, state previous grade:
(7) Correct DOT grade plate displayed?
Clear & Bright? YES / NO Color:
(8) Internal valves opened & contents drained & inspected:
Water free? YES / NO Dirt free? YES / NO
*Up to 3 compartments from one transport may be combined for the API gravity determination.
**If the difference is greater than 0.7 API units, verify the correct batch gravity Notify the terminal immediately Do not depart until the discrepancy is resolved
I certify that the product has been handled in accordance with the XXXX Company guidelines for loading and delivery of aviation products
3 TO BE COMPLETED BY THE RECEIVING FUEL FARM PRIOR TO DISCHARGE
4 TO BE COMPLETED BY THE RECEIVING FUEL FARM AFTER DISCHARGE
Original – Return to XXXX Company with invoice Pink – Give to loading terminal after loading Yellow – Give to customer after unloading Green – Carrier
Release Certificate (Pipeline, Ocean Tanker, Coastal/Inland Waterway Vessel)
The examples provided are for illustrative purposes only, and each company should create its own tailored approach They should not be viewed as comprehensive or definitive API disclaims any warranties, whether express or implied, regarding reliance on the information in this document or any omissions therein.
Users should not solely depend on the information in this document; it is essential to apply sound business, scientific, engineering, and safety judgment when utilizing the information provided.
Where applicable, authorities having jurisdiction should be consulted.
1 TO BE COMPLETED BY THE SUPPLYING REFINERY, TERMINAL OR INSPECTOR
C = composite sample (equal portions of U.M, L or a running sample)
Certified that the products detailed herein conform to the relevant specifications and have been handled in accordance with the quality control procedures in API RP 1595
One (1) copy to be kept on file at the supplying installation
One (1) copy to be provided to the receiving installation
Batch Makeup and Clearance Record
NOTE Use one sheet for each storage tank
The examples provided are for illustrative purposes only, and each company should create its own tailored approach These scenarios are not exhaustive or exclusive, and API disclaims any warranties, whether express or implied, regarding the reliance on or omissions from the information in this document.
Users should not depend solely on the information in this document; it is essential to apply sound business, scientific, engineering, and safety judgment when utilizing the information provided.
Where applicable, authorities having jurisdiction should be consulted.
Invoice To(❏Check here if same as “Ship To”)
❏Payment Enclosed ❏P.O No (Enclose Copy)
❏Charge My IHS Account No.
Print Name (As It Appears on Card):
Subtotal Applicable Sales Tax (see below)
Rush Shipping Fee (see below)
Shipping and Handling (see below)
★To be placed on Standing Order for future editions of this publication, place a check mark in the SO column and sign here:
Pricing and availability subject to change without notice.
❏ API Member(Check if Yes)
Ship To(UPS will not deliver to a P.O Box) Name: