Sylvie Willis
The use of diesel fuel in aircraft is a complex topic and the answer depends on several factors, including the type of aircraft and engine, as well as the specific diesel fuel in question. Some aircraft engines are specifically designed to run on diesel fuel, while others may be able to run on diesel with certain modifications or restrictions. For example, some helicopters with turbine engines can use diesel as a primary or alternate fuel, and certain Diamond Aircraft models can use automotive diesel fuel. However, there are important considerations when using diesel in aircraft, such as ensuring the fuel grades and outside temperatures are appropriate, addressing potential contamination issues, and preventing clogging of fuel pumps and systems. Ultimately, while diesel fuel may be usable in some aircraft, it is important to carefully follow manufacturer guidelines and industry regulations to ensure safe operation.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Can diesel be used in aircraft? | Yes, but it depends on the type of aircraft and engine. Turbine engines can run on diesel. Some piston engine planes designed for avgas may be able to use diesel with avgas, but the plane may not function properly. |
| Jet fuel vs. diesel | Jet fuel is similar to diesel but is refined kerosene. Jet fuel may be preferred over diesel due to diesel's higher cloud point, which can cause fuel filters to plug up in cold temperatures. |
| Using diesel in specific aircraft models | It is permitted to use diesel in E4A/B/C planes flying with an EASA type certificate. Some DA40/DA42 aircraft can use automotive diesel, but older versions may require modifications. Newer Austro engines are diesel-compliant but require checking fuel grades and outside temperatures. |
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What You'll Learn
Turbine engines can run on diesel fuel
While diesel fuel is not typically used in aircraft, it is possible for turbine engines to run on diesel. Some helicopters with turbine engines, such as the Squirrel and 500, have diesel listed as a primary or alternate fuel. Additionally, certain aircraft engines, such as the DA40/DA42 and the AE300, can use automotive diesel fuel.
Turbine engines are known for their ability to burn a variety of fuels, including diesel. However, there may be issues with the injectors and keeping the engine lit. Modifications may be required to use diesel fuel in an aircraft engine, and it is important to consider the impact of fuel variables, such as water or particulates, which could clog filters.
One of the main challenges of using diesel fuel in aircraft is the lack of a hard freeze point specification. The freeze point of diesel fuel varies with the season and geographic location, which can be an issue for aircraft operating in cold temperatures. Most general aviation aircraft do not have heated fuel filters, so the filter can become plugged when the fuel reaches the cloud point, which is the temperature at which wax begins to form and the fuel appears cloudy.
To address the issue of freezing, some aircraft engines require the use of winter diesel, which has different startup temperature requirements. Additionally, it is important to respect temperature limitations and avoid using auxiliary tanks, as the fuel must remain heated.
While it is possible for turbine engines to run on diesel fuel, it is not a common practice due to the potential challenges and limitations. Aircraft engines are typically designed to use jet fuel or aviation gasoline (avgas), and the use of diesel fuel may require modifications and careful consideration of fuel variables and temperature limitations.
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Gasoline engines will not run on diesel
While some aircraft can use diesel fuel, gasoline engines will not run efficiently on diesel fuel.
Gasoline engines use spark plugs to ignite the fuel, while diesel engines rely on auto-ignition under compression. This means that diesel fuel will not ignite in a gasoline engine, as the compression ratio is not high enough. The fuel will not combust, and the engine will flood with unburned fuel.
Additionally, diesel fuel has lubricating properties, which gasoline lacks. This means that if diesel is put into a gasoline engine, components will not be lubricated, leading to overheating, seizing, and engine failure.
It is possible to modify a gasoline engine to run on diesel, but it is a complex process. Spark plugs need to be installed, and the high-pressure fuel delivery system needs to be adapted. The compression ratio of the engine also needs to be significantly reduced to avoid detonation.
While it is technically possible to run diesel in a gasoline engine, it is not recommended. The engine will not run well, and there is a risk of causing damage.
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Jet fuel is similar to diesel
Jet fuel and diesel fuel are similar in many ways. Both fuels are fractional distillates of petroleum fuel oil. Historically, jet fuel and diesel were quite similar in extraction, production, composition, and even their application. For example, jet fuel and diesel engines share similarities in their use of compression ignition, which is a process where fuel is injected into an engine's combustion chamber and then ignited by the high temperatures inside.
Jet fuel is a specific type of aviation fuel used to power aircraft engines. It is also known as aviation turbine fuel (ATF or avtur). Jet fuel is similar to diesel fuel in that they are both derived from petroleum and can be used in engines with similar designs. Additionally, jet fuel and diesel have similar freezing points, with jet fuel having a freezing point below -50 °C (-58 °F).
Diesel fuel, on the other hand, is designed to power engines specifically built to run on diesel fuels. While jet fuel and diesel have many similarities, there are also some important differences. One key distinction is their application, as each fuel type is tailored to its specific use. For instance, jet fuel is used in aircraft engines, while diesel fuel is commonly used in road vehicles such as trucks and cars.
Despite their similarities, jet fuel and diesel fuel are not interchangeable in all cases. Using the incorrect fuel type in an engine can lead to performance issues and even damage to the engine. However, there are some aircraft and vehicles that are designed to run on either jet fuel or diesel, showcasing the versatility and overlap between these two types of fuel.
In certain situations, diesel fuel can be used as an alternative to jet fuel. For example, in remote locations or during fuel shortages, aircraft may use diesel fuel if jet fuel is unavailable. Similarly, some aircraft engines, such as the Austro engines, are designed to be diesel-compliant, allowing for flexibility in fuel choice.
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Diesel is permitted in some aircraft engines
While diesel fuel is generally not used in aircraft, it is permitted in some engines. For example, certain Diamond Aircraft models, such as the DA40NG and DA42, can use automotive diesel fuel. However, older versions of the AE300 engine require a MÄM (likely an abbreviation for a specific device or system) to use normal diesel. Additionally, some engines, like the CD-170 by Continental Aerospace Technologies, are designed to burn Jet A1 fuel, which is similar to diesel.
Turbine engines, which are found in some aircraft and helicopters, can also run on diesel fuel. In Australia, for instance, it is not uncommon for Fire/Rescue helicopters to refuel with diesel at truck stops in remote areas. However, there are some challenges associated with using diesel in turbine engines, such as issues with injectors and keeping the engine lit.
It is important to note that the use of diesel in aircraft engines is subject to certain limitations and regulations. For instance, the EASA type certificate permits the use of diesel in E4A/B/C engines, but this is not mentioned in the FAA type certificate. Additionally, temperature limitations must be respected, and the use of auxiliary tanks is not advised when using diesel fuel.
The performance of aircraft engines using diesel fuel may also be marginally diminished compared to when they use aviation fuel. Furthermore, diesel fuel has a cloud point, the temperature at which wax begins to form and can plug the fuel filter. This can be mitigated with a heated fuel filter, but most general aviation aircraft do not have this feature. Therefore, the use of diesel in aircraft engines is feasible in certain cases, but it requires careful consideration of the specific engine, operating environment, and relevant regulations.
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Diesel fuel has a variable freeze point
While diesel fuel can be used in aircraft, it is not that simple. Some older versions of aircraft engines need modifications to be able to use regular diesel. For instance, the AE300 engine requires an MÄM to use normal diesel. Additionally, the FAA type certificate does not permit diesel consumption, and a placard inside the plane limits flight above minimum temperatures based on the seasonal grade of diesel.
The Cloud Point for the diesel in your tank can be tricky to determine. That’s because a fuel’s Cloud Point varies depending on the type of diesel, how much paraffin it contains, and what other blends of diesel have been mixed with that fuel. But, generally speaking, #2 diesel fuel has a Cloud Point from -18 to 20 degrees F. (-28 to -7 degrees C.), while #1 diesel fuel can withstand temperatures as low as -40 degrees F. (-40 degrees C.). That said, it is impossible to precisely pinpoint the Cloud Point for any given tank of diesel fuel due to the various blends of fuel likely present in a tank. So, as a general rule of thumb, it’s a good idea to err on the side of caution and treat your fuel with winterizing fluids anytime the temperature drops below 30 degrees F.
The Cloud Point is important because the wax crystals that form at low temperatures will clog up fuel filters and injectors over time. This process is known as the Cold Filter Plugging Point, which is the lowest temperature at which fuel will flow freely through the filter and remain operational. Typically, a tank of untreated diesel fuel will reach its Cold Filter Plugging Point 3 to 5 degrees F below its Cloud Point and then will begin to plug filters. To prevent this, diesel fuel supplements can be added to the tank as soon as temperatures begin to drop. These supplements prevent fuel gelling and keep fuel-filters from plugging with ice and wax.
Additionally, the Pour Point is another important consideration, which is when the wax in the fuel has solidified so much that the fuel becomes solid and no longer flows or pours freely. To prevent this, anti-gel additives can be used, which lower the freezing point of diesel fuel. These additives should be added as soon as temperatures approach freezing, with lower temperatures requiring more anti-gel.
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Frequently asked questions
It depends on the type of aircraft and the type of diesel fuel. Some aircraft engines are diesel-compliant, but it is important to check the fuel grades and outside temperatures when flying/starting the engine.
The main issues are the lack of a hard freeze point specification for #1 diesel and the fact that most general aviation aircraft do not have a heated fuel filter. This can cause the filter to plug up when the fuel reaches the cloud point.
Some Diamond Aircraft, such as the DA40NG and DA42, can use automotive diesel fuel. Certain helicopters with turbine engines, such as the Squirrel and 500, can also use diesel as a primary or alternate fuel.
Jet-A is a type of jet fuel, which is similar to diesel but more refined. It is important to note that gasoline engines will not run on diesel, and diesel engines are not designed to run on aviation gasoline (avgas).
