Abstract: A system and method for distillation testing of a liquid sample at atmospheric pressure for the improved prediction of the heating necessary to reach the initial boiling point (IBP) and ensure the IBP is observed within certain time constraints, and regardless of sample composition. This monitors the sample by the camera during different heating phases of the test to obtain visual images of the sample and a computer analyzes image data observed to regulate the optimal distillation process.

Abstract: A testing device and method for determining smoke point of a hydrocarbon. The device including: an apparatus for determining the smoke point conforming to specifications of an ASTM D1322-19 standard or equivalent standard, imaging device for taking a series of digital images of a flame; ambient relative humidity sensor for measuring relative humidity; ambient temperature sensor for measuring temperature; computer system linked to the imaging device, humidity sensor, and temperature sensor programmed to analyze digital images from the imaging device to measure flame height flame, and use temperature with relative humidity measured by the temperature and humidity sensors to calculate absolute humidity and correct measured flame height as a function of difference between the calculated absolute humidity and normalized absolute humidity, and preferably to correct measured flame height as a function of difference between pressure during flame height measuring and normalized pressure.

Abstract: A testing device and method for determining smoke point of a hydrocarbon. The device including: an apparatus for determining the smoke point conforming to specifications of an ASTM D1322-19 standard or equivalent standard, imaging device for taking a series of digital images of a flame; ambient relative humidity sensor for measuring relative humidity; ambient temperature sensor for measuring temperature; computer system linked to the imaging device, humidity sensor, and temperature sensor programmed to analyze digital images from the imaging device to measure flame height flame, and use temperature with relative humidity measured by the temperature and humidity sensors to calculate absolute humidity and correct measured flame height as a function of difference between the calculated absolute humidity and normalized absolute humidity, and preferably to correct measured flame height as a function of difference between pressure during flame height measuring and normalized pressure.

Abstract: Jet fuels' thermal oxidation characteristics are evaluated via the Standard Test Method for Thermal Stability of Aviation Turbine Fuels. This test method mimics the thermal stress conditions encountered by jet fuel in operation and is often carried out by laboratory devices, known as rigs. The rigs include a test section having a sleeve and a heater tube arranged therein. A pair of bus bars secure the test section to the rig and apply a current to the heater tube. The applied current heats the heater tube and subjects the sample jet fuels that are flowing in the volume between the sleeve and heater tube to high temperatures, which may produce thermal oxidation deposits on the heater tube. Heater tubes are difficult to install, however, and a gauge may be used to ensure accurate placement of the heater tube within the sleeve.

Abstract: Fuel sampling systems are disclosed. In one embodiment, a fuel sampling system includes an optical capture device and an analysis computing device that stores logic for implementing an evaluation sequence. During the evaluation sequence, the analysis computing device performs at least the following: receive a captured image from the optical capture device, identify areas of highest contrast in the captured image, and determine if the areas of highest contrast define a ring. If the areas of highest contrast define a ring, evaluate a contrast ratio between the ring and areas outside of the ring, and determine if the captured image reflects a fuel sample that exceeds a predetermined limit of propensity for settling. If so, indicate that the captured image reflects a fuel sample that is not acceptable. Otherwise, indicate that the captured image reflects a fuel sample that is acceptable.