How Kerosene Fuel Cans Got Their Blue Hue

Kerosene fuel cans were changed from yellow to blue to set them apart from more volatile and flammable materials like gasoline and diesel. Blue is also a more calming colour compared to red or yellow. This colour-coding is a valuable safety feature and an effective means to keep people safe from the hazards associated with misusing certain fuels, including damage to property, injury, or death.

Kerosene is less volatile than other flammable liquids

Kerosene is a highly useful substance that is used across a wide range of industries. It is a hydrocarbon liquid derived from the fractional distillation of petroleum. It is a very common fuel in the aviation industry, as well as for household use.

Kerosene is indeed less volatile than other flammable liquids. Its flashpoint, or the temperature at which it gives off enough flammable vapours to ignite, is between 37°C and 65°C. This is notably higher than that of petrol, which has a flashpoint of -43°C. This means that kerosene requires more heat energy to ignite than other fuels and is therefore considered less volatile.

The relatively low volatility of kerosene is due to the chemical composition of the hydrocarbons that make it up. Kerosene hydrocarbons are relatively small, typically containing 6 to 20 carbon atoms per molecule, and most commonly 9 to 16. The molecules in kerosene are larger than those in petrol, which is why kerosene has a higher flashpoint.

The lower volatility of kerosene has safety implications and influences how it is stored. As a less volatile substance, kerosene is often stored in blue containers to set it apart from more volatile and flammable liquids like gasoline and diesel, which are typically stored in red or yellow containers. This colour-coding system is important for promoting safety in the workplace and preventing accidents.

While kerosene is less volatile than some other flammable liquids, it is still highly flammable and has dangerous properties that users should be aware of. It is important to handle and store kerosene correctly and in accordance with relevant regulations to ensure safety.

Blue is a more calming colour than red or yellow

Kerosene fuel cans were changed from yellow to blue to set them apart from more volatile and flammable materials like gasoline and diesel. Blue is often associated with calmness and serenity, and it is a more calming colour than red or yellow. Blue is commonly found in nature, such as in the pale blue of a daytime sky or the rich dark blue of a deep pool of water. This is perhaps why we often describe blue as calm and serene. Blue can also evoke feelings of peace, tranquility, and security.

Research has shown that blue can have a physiological impact on people, reducing heart rate and body temperature. It can also stimulate feelings of relaxation, which is why some airports have started incorporating blue lighting and imagery to promote calmness before flying. Blue is also associated with dependability and loyalty, which is why businesses often use blue in their branding and advertising.

In the workplace, blue is linked to higher levels of employee loyalty and goal orientation. It is also seen as a sign of stability and reliability. Blue is often used to decorate offices because it has been shown to increase productivity and creativity. However, blue is one of the least appetising colours, as it rarely occurs naturally in food, and humans are geared to avoid blue food, which can indicate spoilage or poison.

While blue is generally considered calming, it can also evoke feelings of sadness or aloofness. For example, Picasso's Blue Period features monochromatic paintings in shades of blue that seem lonely and sad. Additionally, individual experiences can shape how people perceive colours, and while some find blue peaceful, others may find it somber.

Colour-coding is a valuable safety feature

The use of colour-coding is particularly important in workplaces and industries that require the use of various dangerous liquids. While labelling is essential, a colour system provides an additional layer of safety and makes it easier for workers to quickly identify the type of liquid and its associated risks. For example, red, a colour widely associated with danger and the risk of flame, is used for gasoline, a highly flammable liquid. In contrast, blue, a more calming colour, is used for kerosene, which is less volatile and flammable than gasoline or diesel. This colour distinction helps workers easily differentiate between these fuels and reduces the chance of accidental mixing.

The benefits of colour-coding extend beyond the workplace. In the event of an accident or emergency, colour-coding can provide crucial information to first responders. By knowing what flammable liquids are present in an area, first responders can better assess the potential dangers and take appropriate action. This not only protects people but also helps prevent damage to property and the environment.

While colour-coding is not always mandated by law, it has become an industry standard for certain fuels and liquids. In the United States, for example, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requires that highly flammable liquids with a flashpoint at or below 80 degrees Fahrenheit be stored in red cans. However, for other liquids, such as kerosene, diesel, and oils, the specific colour of the safety can is not regulated but has become standard practice due to its effectiveness in enhancing safety.

In conclusion, colour-coding is a valuable safety feature that helps prevent accidents, improves emergency response, and keeps people, property, and the environment safe from the hazards associated with misusing certain fuels and hazardous liquids.

Blue is the standard colour for kerosene cans

The use of colours to differentiate between types of fuel is an important safety measure. It is common practice to coordinate the colour of a safety can with the liquid inside, which prevents confusion and potential mix-ups when working with multiple flammable liquids. It also provides clarification for first responders in the event of an accident.

In the United States, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requires that liquids with a flashpoint at or below 80 degrees F be stored in a red can. Liquids with a flashpoint at or below 80 degrees are considered highly flammable. Kerosene has a higher flashpoint, so it does not need to be stored in a red can.

While the colour of the container is not regulated by OSHA, it has become a manufacturer's standard to use blue safety cans for kerosene. This standard is widely accepted and recommended to avoid confusion in the workplace.

In addition to using the correct colour safety can, it is important to follow other safety guidelines when storing and handling kerosene. Kerosene safety cans should hold no more than 5 gallons and should be stored outside of the home in a clean container.

Kerosene is commonly used in the aviation industry

Kerosene is highly flammable, more so than diesel, which gives it the explosive burning qualities required for take-off. Its high flammability means it meets the power and efficiency requirements for flight. Kerosene is also highly compatible with jet engines, undergoing rigorous testing and quality control to meet aviation industry standards.

Kerosene has a low freezing point of -47°C, which is essential for planes flying at extremely high altitudes where temperatures are sub-zero. This low freezing point means that kerosene won't thicken and clog the engine during flight.

Kerosene is also efficient, providing high energy density and improved fuel efficiency. It has a low viscosity, which is ideal for jet fuel, and its low viscosity is maintained during flight due to its low freezing point.

Kerosene is also a safe choice. It has a higher flash point than other fuels, meaning it is unlikely to cause unplanned combustion. It also has anti-corrosive and anti-static properties, and it can include de-icing agents.

Finally, kerosene is much cheaper than other fuel options, making it a more affordable option for airlines.

For these reasons, kerosene is the primary fuel for jet engines in commercial, military, and general aviation aircraft worldwide.

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