Evaluation of Synthetic Fuel in Military Tactical Generators
Abstract
A program was developed to compare data on performance, fuel economy and exhaust emissions during side by-side evaluations of military tactical generator sets while using various fuels, including Fischer-Tropsch (FT) synthetic aviation kerosene fuel. The generators identified as Tactical Quiet Generators, 10kW 60 Hz, MEP-803A were provided by the Mobile Electric Power Group at Ft. Belvoir, VA. All three generators were operated on a 25-hour break-in run using Ultra-Low Sulfur Diesel (ULSD). Then, generators No. 1 and No. 3 operated on ULSD for a total of 100 hours and then were switched between JP-8 and a 50:50 volumetric blend of JP-8 and FT synthetic kerosene every 450 hours of operation. Generator No. 2 was operated on FT synthetic aviation kerosene fuel for the entire 1,000-hour test. The generators operated at 50% capacity throughout the evaluation and three 10kW electrical load banks provided continuous, controlled load to the generators. Monitored data included engine speed, electrical output, exhaust temperature, inlet fuel temperature, fuel consumption, and exhaust emissions. Variances of automated data, i.e., engine rpm, electrical output, fuel temperature and exhaust temperature were insignificant during the test period. Measured emissions gasses were NOx, ppm, CO, ppm, CO2, %, and O2 %. There were insignificant variances in CO2 and O2 emissions. However, data show reductions in NOx and CO when using FT synthetic aviation kerosene or a blend of JP-8 and FT synthetic aviation kerosene fuel instead of ULSD or JP-8.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 2008
- Accession Number
- ADA482914
Entities
People
- Edwin A. Frame
- Ruben Alvarez
Organizations
- Southwest Research Institute