Microbial Contamination in Aviation Fuel and Aircraft Fuel Systems
I.D. # C0728 Duration 1 Day
Microbial contamination in aviation fuel creates biomats that clog filters and scavenge systems, coat fuel quality indicator systems (FQIS) probes, and lead to structural corrosion, impacting the operational and economical aspects of turbine powered fixed wing and rotary wing aircraft. From inaccurate fuel level readings to aborted take-offs and air interrupts, microorganisms can wreak havoc on the entire aircraft and the system operations. Attendees will learn how microorganisms enter and survive in the fuel distribution and storage network, and how a routine surveillance program can manage risk and mitigate lost profits. Students will have the opportunity to experience hands-on techniques to detect and remediate contamination in aviation fuel systems.
Learning Objectives
By attending this seminar, you will be able to:
  • Describe the impact of microorganisms on aircraft fuel systems
  • Explain how microorganisms survive in an aviation fuel environment
  • Determine how microorganisms enter the fuel storage and distribution system
  • Detect and remediate microbially contaminated fuel systems
  • Improve the overall operational reliability of aircraft and reduce maintenance costs
Who Should Attend
This seminar is appropriate for aircraft fuel systems design engineers, aviation fuel quality managers in manufacturing, storage and distribution facilities, aircraft fuel quality managers, and aircraft maintenance technicians.
Prerequisites
Attendees should have a basic understanding of fuels and fuel systems.
Seminar Content
  • Microorganisms
    • Brief overview of the operational and economic impact of microorganisms to the aviation industry
    • Regulatory, FAA Flight Standards Information Bulletin for Airworthiness (FSAW) FSAW 05-08A "Air Carrier Implementation of Inspections for Fuel Microbial Contamination"
    • Brief description of microorganisms related to aviation fuel
    • Requirements for microorganisms to survive in a fuel storage system
    • Aircraft fuel system water scavenger maintenance and periodic aircraft fuel tank sump draining
  • Aviation Fuel Storage and Distribution
    • Entry and movement of microorganisms throughout the aviation fuel storage and distribution network
  • The Impact of Microorganisms on Aircraft
  • Detection of Microorganisms
    • Types of detection equipment and procedures
    • Practicum - test methods and equipment -- Culture test; Immuno assay test; Bioluminescence test
  • Remediation of Microorganisms
    • Microbial pesticides approved for use in aviation fuel
    • USEPA regulations governing the sale of microbial pesticides in the U.S.
    • Characteristics of an efficacious microbial pesticide
    • Methods for treating storage and distribution systems
    • Industry practice for introducing a microbial pesticide into aircraft
  • Surveillance Program
    • Benefits of a routine surveillance program
    • Developing a surveillance program
Instructor(s): Ed English & Howard Chesneau
Mr. English is currently Vice President & Technical Director for Fuel Quality Services, Inc. where he oversees all aspects directly related to the research, development, and deployment of chemicals, antimicrobials and detection equipment for use in the various stages of the petroleum and biomass fuels industry from the refinery to the end user. He is also responsible for evaluating regulatory and industry issues, compliance with federal and state regulations, formulating policy and implementing programs to address regulatory and industry issues, and performing technical reviews and program audits. Mr. English previously worked in the nuclear power industry. He is nationally recognized for his knowledge and expertise in the area of microbial contamination of fuels, alternative fuels, and materials compatibility and has been an invited speaker for such organizations as the EPA, FAA, CALCUPA, NEIWPCC, PEI, NISTM, and SAE, DuPont, and Biofuels Americas. Mr. English is also an active member of numerous professional organizations including SAE, IASH, IATA, and ASTM. He has a B.S. in Chemistry from the University of Florida and two years post-baccalaureate work from the University of Miami.

Mr. Chesneau is the President of Fuel Quality Services, Inc. A recognized expert on fuel-related issues, he has over thirty years of experience in fuel additives, distillate fuel problems, fuel filtration, and tank remediation. Additionly, Mr. Chesneau has extensive knowledge and field experience in the area of microbial contamination and detection. Mr. Chesneau is on the IASH Board of Directors and is the past Chairman of the SAE Atlanta Section. He is an active member of other professional organizations including SAE, IATA, and ASTM. He currently serves on the IATA Working Group on Microbial Contamination, the ASTM Committee dealing with fuel from middle distillates to heavy oils, the ASTM Committee establishing specifications for biodiesel, and the ASTM Committee on jet fuel. In addition to his committee and working group activities, Mr. Chesneau has authored and co-authored many articles on the subject of fuel storage and handling that have been published in various trade magazines. Mr. Chesneau served as a commissioned officer in the US Army and holds a B.S. degree from the University of Florida.

Testimonial

"A concise overview of fuels and biofuels with focus on materials compatibility and microbial contamination -- lots of real-word experience and expertise was shared."
Eric Thomas
Senior Technology Engineer
DuPont Performance Elastomers

"Both instructors are extremely knowledgeable in the topics presented. It was clear that they are passionate about their field of work. Excellent course!
Russell L. Dennis, Jr.
Vice President
Leading Edge Hydraulics

"This course provides an excellent overview of fuel chemistry, microbiological growth causes, and problems caused in engines and fuel handling systems by changes in both as it relates to alternate systems."
Kenneth Henz
Chemist
U.S. Navy/NOLSC Petroleum

Fees: $725 SAE Members*: $580 - $653
* The appropriate SAE Member discount will be applied through the Registration process.  Discounts vary according to level of membership: Elite Member 20%; Premium Member 15%; Classic Member 10%
CEU .7