The density meter is primarily used for fuel monitoring and is an effective way to make sure fuel deliveries conform to what is ordered and is the correct grade. The tester is used in the assessment of likely combustion performance, by calculating the CCAI (calculated carbon aromaticity index) when the viscosity is also known. It is also essential to know density to select the correct gravity disc for the purifiers.
It is more critical than ever to test the quality of fuel as new challenges from alternative future fuels as bio-fuel content increases. These drop-in fuels are hydrocarbons with molecular structures that are indistinguishable from petroleum hydrocarbons – or residual and distillate fuel oils and are bunkered as conventional fuels.
It is important to understand the densities of fuels before mixing these fuels, and other parameters such as stability, compatibility and viscosity to avoid storage and handling issues. Also consider that these fuels change with time – likeable to perishable foodstuff – and it is more important than ever to analyse periodically and at point of use.
The density meter automatically controls the sample chamber, warming the fluid to allow density to be read using a hydrometer which is placed the in warmed fuel. Most fuels and fluids can be measured at 50°C but for very viscous fluids, the units can be set to warm to 70°C.
There is a calculator feature, which allows the reading to be adjusted to display density corrected to kg/m3 at 15°C in a vacuum.
If viscosity is known in centiStokes or centiPoise the calculator will display the CCAI.
Features and Benefits
• Compact unit in carry case is stored with ease and completely portable.
• Does not require reagents or complicated procedure.
• Minimal operator attendance allows other tasks to be done simultaneously.
• Timely results allow rapid targeted action.
• Provides warmed fluid which makes subsequent testing easier and faster.
Parker’s range of bunker drip sampling and storage products are designed to get a representative sample for testing. In addition to density, it is important to understand, stability, compatibility, and viscosity of fuels, which also provides further reassurance that if the fuels to be mixed are close to each other, then they are most likely compatible. Warmed fluid is easier to handle for subsequent tests such as pour-point, viscosity testing and compatibility. The fuel oil density meter is available in its own carry case or included with a suite of tests in the Oil Test Centre for complete testing of fuels and lubricants. Please see recommended products section for more information.
