Fuel test kit
Keywords: Aircraft, Fuel systems, Contamination
A UK company claims that it has developed the fastest kit to detect microbial contamination in aircraft fuel. It detects Hormoconis resinae the most damaging threat to aviation fuel (Plate 1).
Conidia Bioscience of Egham worked in collaboration with Guildhay Ltd., of Guildford to develop the rapid semi quantitative test kit. The kit is said to be able to inform aviation engineers just how much Hormoconis resinae they have in their fuel tanks. The test which can reportedly give a definitive result in just 10min, is believed to be faster than any other kit currently available.
Plate 1 From left to right: Margeret Parton, Southern Bioscience/Medical Team Manager being shown how the test equipment works by James Leslie, MD of Conidia Bioscience and Keith Page MD of Guildhay
Fuel Contaminated with micro-organisms can lead to corrosion and pitting in all metal and seals. After an initial introduction from Southern Bioscience the two companies have come together to find a quick reliable solution.
Southern Bioscience funded by Business Links in the South East and delivered by Business Link Surrey, works closely with the Companies in Southern England to promote collaboration both between individual companies and with Academia to facilitate passage of innovative products to market. Providing a first point of contact for organisations from outside the UK who are interested in access to Biotechnology Companies based within the area or are looking for potential partners on particular areas of technology.
Hormoconis resinae, also known as the jet fuel fungus is found in light to middle distilate fuels such as aviation kerosene, living off the fuel as foodstuff. It produces a biomass that can cause blockages in fuel lines and filters. IATA has for some time recognised the problem and has a task force dedicated to examining microbial contamination in aviation fuel. It is a serious problem with heavy financial and engineering implications. Treatment of contamination can involve the use of biocides but these have health and safety and environmental issues.
Good housekeeping for airlines and military aircraft is the best way to reduce the problem. The new test kit is said to allow rapid routine monitoring so that engine can keep on top of any potential contamination.
The Conidia Bioscience test kit is called FUELSTAT resinae and was launched at the recent Dubai Airshow.
James Leslie, managing director of Conidia Bioscience said "It is our aim that FUELSTAT resinae will become the industry gold standard. We are confident that this kit will achieve this. Since Dubai the interest in the kit has been very robust. Southern Bioscience has been with us much of the way with advice and assistance especially sharing what we have learned with others in the bioscience sector as both collaborators and prospective customers".
Details available from: Tel: +44 (0) 845 749 4949; E-mail: success@businesslinksurrey.co.uk
