FIA-100/FCA Fuel Combustion Analyser

Ignition and combustion properties of Heavy Fuel Oil

In a Diesel engine, poor ignition and combustion properties can lead to operational disruptions, and in severe cases, they may even culminate in engine damage.

HFO or residual fuels are typically composed of various fractions blended to meet specific fuel standards. Over the years, advancements in refinery processes have resulted in the extraction of more lightweight components from crude oil. The utilization of catalytic cracking processes has also led to an increase in the aromatic content of residual fuels. Consequently, ignition and combustion properties exhibit significant variations, making them challenging to predict through empirical metods.

The FIA-100/FCA instrument is based on a standardized method for determining combustion and ignition characteristics of residual fuels.

The instrument operates by injecting a small sample of fuel into a constant volume combustion chamber under high pressure and temperature conditions. The fuel auto-ignites, and the ensuing combustion is meticulously tracked. This system effectively derives key parameters such as ignition delay and other combustion metrics from the pressure data recorded during the combustion process.

Compliance with Test Method IP 541/06

FIA-100/FCA stands alone as the sole instrument in complience with Test Method IP541/06, Determination of ignition and combustion characteristics of residual fuel oils.

When operated in accordance with IP541/06, the instrument facilitates the calculation of the Estimated Cetane Number (ECN).

ECN ranges from 5 to 40, where higher ECN values signifying better ignition properties.

For a comprehensive understanding of this test method the complete documentation is available from Energy Institute:

Link to Test Method IP 541/06

Data acquisition and parameters

  • Combustion Pressure trace

  • Rate of Heat Release RoHR

  • ECN – Estimated Cetane Number, range 5-40 CN, according to IP541/06

  • Calculated parameters

Instrument specifications

  • Size (BxHxD): 70x70x40 cm

  • Painted steel cabinet

  • Weight: Approx 60 kg

  • Air supply: Compressed air – dry and clean

  • Electrical connection: 220-240 V, 50Hz – 1600 W max consumption

  • Circulation bath: External heater/cooler

  • Computer connection: Ethernet cable to Windows computer

  • Fuel consumption: 50 ml pr test

  • Automatic operation