Ameer Randolph
Aviation fuel is either petroleum-based or a blend of petroleum and synthetic fuels, and they are used to power aircraft. There are different types of aviation fuel, including avgas, jet fuel, biofuel, and sustainable aviation fuel. Jet fuel is made up of hydrocarbons and is used in planes with gas-turbine engines. Avgas, on the other hand, is used in spark-ignited internal combustion engines and contains tetraethyllead. While jet fuel is similar to diesel, there are some key differences between the two. In this article, we will explore the question of whether diesel fuel can be used to fuel aircraft and discuss the potential benefits and drawbacks of doing so.
Can I fuel my plane with diesel?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Jet fuel | Made up of hydrocarbons, used in gas-turbine engines |
| Types of jet fuel | Jet A, Jet A-1, and Jet B |
| Differences between Jet A and Jet A-1 | Freezing point: Jet A freezes at −40 °F, Jet A-1 freezes at −53 °F |
| Use of Jet B | Used for cold weather performance but is rarely used because it is dangerous |
| Use of diesel in aircraft | Some piston engines in planes can use diesel, but it is not recommended due to higher levels of sulfur and other additives |
| Avgas | Used in spark-ignited internal combustion engines, contains tetraethyllead |
| Issues with Avgas | Lead deposits on turbine blades, compatibility issues with fuel lines, orings, seals, and the fuel pump |
| #1 diesel fuel | Cheaper and more readily available than Jet A, but may cause filter plugging and engine issues in cold weather |
| Diesel-powered aircraft requirements | Larger fuel fill cap, heated fuel filter system, and other modifications |
| FAA certification | Most diesel engines are certified for Jet A/A1 fuel, but some pilots may use #1 diesel due to availability |
| SMA diesel engine | Designed to run on auto diesel, but some operators use Jet-A due to availability and fuel quality |
| Continental's CD-155 diesel engine | Certified to run on jet fuel and diesel, or a mixture of both |
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What You'll Learn
- Jet fuel is similar to diesel and is used in gas-turbine engines
- Diesel-powered aircraft require a larger fuel cap and heated filter system
- #1 diesel is cheaper and more available than Jet A, but has issues with low temperatures
- Avgas is aviation gasoline used by small aircraft and helicopters
- Turbine engines can run on diesel, but it is uncommon
Jet fuel is similar to diesel and is used in gas-turbine engines
Jet fuel is indeed similar to diesel and is used in gas-turbine engines. Jet fuel is a kerosene-based fuel, which is made up of hydrocarbons. It is clear to straw-coloured and can be used in compression ignition engines or turbine engines. Jet fuel is similar to diesel fuel, and some turbine engines can run on diesel.
Jet fuel is specifically designed for airplanes and is not recommended for cars. It has a higher level of sulfur and other additives, including cetane, than diesel. The freezing point of jet fuel also varies, with Jet A freezing at −40 °F and Jet A-1 at −53 °F. Jet B is rarely used due to safety concerns but is designed for cold weather performance.
Some aircraft engines are designed to run on both jet fuel and diesel. For example, the Continental CD-155 and CD-170 engines are certified to use jet fuel and diesel. The SMA diesel engine is another example, although operators tend to use jet fuel due to availability and quality.
While jet fuel and diesel are similar, there are important differences. Diesel fuel is not always suitable for aircraft, especially in cold temperatures. The lack of a consistent freeze point for #1 diesel can cause issues, and the potential for bio-diesel contamination can lead to filter plugging. Additionally, aircraft with diesel engines may require modifications, such as a heated fuel filter system, to accommodate diesel fuel.
In conclusion, jet fuel and diesel have similarities, and some aircraft engines can run on both types of fuel. However, jet fuel is specifically designed for aviation use and has unique properties that may not be suitable for all diesel engines, especially in cold weather conditions.
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Diesel-powered aircraft require a larger fuel cap and heated filter system
While it is possible to use diesel in aircraft, there are some important considerations and potential challenges to be aware of. One key difference between diesel-powered aircraft and those using other types of fuel is the need for a larger fuel cap and a heated filter system in diesel engines.
The requirement for a larger fuel cap in diesel-powered aircraft is influenced by the characteristics of diesel fuel itself. Diesel has a higher density compared to some other aviation fuels, such as Jet A, which has a lower density and a freezing point of −40 °F. The higher density of diesel means that a larger volume of fuel is required to produce the same amount of energy, hence the need for a larger fuel cap to accommodate this increased volume.
Additionally, diesel-powered aircraft require a heated filter system to prevent issues caused by cold temperatures. Diesel fuel can be susceptible to thickening and gelling in cold weather, which can lead to blockages in the fuel filter. By implementing a heated filter system, the diesel fuel can be maintained at an appropriate temperature, ensuring smooth flow through the filter and reducing the risk of blockages.
The positioning of the fuel filter is also a critical factor in diesel-powered aircraft. The fuel filter must be strategically mounted to avoid exposure to extreme cold temperatures, as mentioned by Ben Visser, an aviation fuels and lubricants expert. This careful placement helps prevent the fuel from thickening and ensures optimal fuel flow.
It is worth noting that the use of diesel in aircraft also raises concerns about contamination with improperly processed bio-diesel, which can cause issues with filter plugging, especially at high altitudes. Therefore, ensuring the quality and proper processing of diesel fuel is essential to mitigate these potential issues.
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#1 diesel is cheaper and more available than Jet A, but has issues with low temperatures
#1 diesel is more affordable and accessible than Jet A, but it has drawbacks when it comes to cold temperatures. While #1 diesel may be a tempting option due to its lower price and wider availability, particularly in rural agricultural areas, it is important to consider the potential issues it may cause in aircraft fuel systems.
One significant challenge with #1 diesel is the uncertainty regarding its low-temperature performance. Unlike Jet A, which has a defined freezing point of -40°F, #1 diesel does not have a standard freeze point specification. This means that the fuel's freezing point can vary depending on the time of year and geographical location, making it unreliable in cold climates. Aircraft operating in cold conditions risk encountering issues with fuel filter plugging and fuel starvation due to the lack of a defined freeze point in #1 diesel.
Another concern with #1 diesel is the potential contamination with improperly processed biodiesel. Some suppliers may have residues of biodiesel that have not been adequately refined, which could find their way into the aircraft's fuel supply. This contamination can lead to unexpected issues with the aircraft's performance and engine health.
Additionally, the use of #1 diesel in aircraft fuel systems may require modifications to the aircraft. For instance, a heated fuel filter system may be necessary to prevent fuel starvation at low temperatures. Without these modifications, the aircraft's performance and safety may be compromised.
While #1 diesel may be a cost-effective and readily available option, it is essential to carefully consider the potential drawbacks associated with its use in aircraft, especially in cold environments. Proper precautions and modifications must be in place to ensure the safe and efficient operation of the aircraft.
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Avgas is aviation gasoline used by small aircraft and helicopters
Avgas, or aviation gasoline, is a type of aviation fuel used in aircraft with spark-ignited internal combustion engines. It is different from the conventional gasoline used in motor vehicles, which is called mogas (motor gasoline) in the context of aviation. Avgas is largely comprised of alkylate, a mixture of isooctane, and it has been used since the 1940s. It is one of the few remaining transportation fuels that contain lead, which is added to prevent engine knocking and increase octane rating.
Avgas is used by small aircraft and helicopters, and it is sold in much lower volumes than jet fuel. It is, however, sold to many more individual aircraft operators. In 2024, the annual usage of avgas in the US was 180 million gallons, with 170,000 aircraft in the US using leaded avgas. Avgas usage has been declining, and in Europe, there is a push to convert to diesel engines that burn jet fuel, which is more available and less expensive.
While some aircraft do use diesel fuel, there are several problems with using #1 diesel fuel in an aircraft. The first issue is that the engine and airframe are often manufactured by different companies, which can cause complications with the placement of the fuel filter. The second major problem is ensuring that the diesel fuel meets the proper cold-temperature properties and is not contaminated with improperly processed biodiesel, which can cause filter plugging, especially at altitude.
Some aircraft engines are only compatible with fuels containing lead, and certifying a new engine is an expensive and lengthy process. As such, some piston-engine planes designed for avgas may be able to use a mix of avgas and diesel, depending on the engine's compatibility with diesel fuel.
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Turbine engines can run on diesel, but it is uncommon
While it is possible to fuel a plane with diesel, it is not a straightforward process and there are several factors to consider. Firstly, not all aircraft engines are compatible with diesel fuel. Piston-engined aircraft typically use leaded gasoline, while those with diesel engines may use jet fuel (kerosene). Turbine engines, on the other hand, can burn almost any fuel that resembles kerosene, including diesel. However, it is important to note that the specific type of diesel fuel and the aircraft's engine must be taken into account.
#1 diesel fuel has been known to cause issues in diesel-powered aircraft. The lack of a consistent freeze point for #1 diesel can lead to problems in varying temperatures and locations. Additionally, the potential contamination of #1 diesel with improperly processed biodiesel can result in filter plugging, especially at high altitudes. These factors emphasize the importance of using the correct type of diesel fuel and ensuring that it meets the necessary standards for aviation use.
Furthermore, modifications to the aircraft may be necessary when using diesel fuel. A larger fuel fill cap and a heated fuel filter system are often required for diesel-powered aircraft. Without a heated fuel filter, the aircraft's engine may starve for fuel once the fuel temperature reaches a certain point. These considerations highlight the complexity of using diesel fuel in aircraft and the need for careful planning and expertise.
While it is uncommon to use diesel fuel in aircraft, there are certain scenarios where it may be done. In rural agricultural areas, for instance, #1 diesel fuel is more readily available and affordable than Jet A. Additionally, some aircraft engines, such as the Continental CD-155, are certified to use both jet fuel and auto diesel. However, it is crucial to consult experts and manufacturers' guidelines before attempting to use diesel fuel in any aircraft.
In conclusion, while turbine engines can technically run on diesel fuel, it is uncommon due to the various factors that must be considered, including engine compatibility, fuel standards, and aircraft modifications. The availability and affordability of jet fuel alternatives, as well as the specific needs and capabilities of different aircraft, also play a role in the rarity of using diesel fuel in aviation. As such, it is essential to approach the topic with caution and seek expert advice before making any fuel-related decisions for aircraft.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, diesel aircraft engines can run on diesel fuel. However, it is not recommended to use any fuel other than what is recommended by the manufacturer. Aircraft engines are built with particular kinds of fuel in mind, and using incompatible fuel can result in reduced engine performance or even damage the engine.
The use of diesel in aircraft engines has several advantages. Diesel engines have a reduced risk of fire, are more reliable, require less maintenance, and have lower fuel consumption. They are also more environmentally friendly and less harmful to human health due to the absence of the toxic and polluting tetraethyllead antiknock ingredient found in avgas.
One of the main disadvantages of using diesel in aircraft is the weight of the engine. Diesel engines are typically heavier, which can reduce the overall payload capacity of the aircraft. Diesel engines also have a lower power-to-mass ratio, which is a crucial consideration for aircraft. Additionally, diesel fuel is more susceptible to colder temperatures, requiring the use of additives to prevent fuel line blockages.
