ASTM D910-24 PDF

Overview

ASTM D910-24: Standard Specification for Leaded Aviation Gasolines defines the quality requirements for leaded aviation gasoline (avgas) primarily used in piston-engine aircraft. Developed by ASTM International, this standard is essential for purchasing agencies and fuel suppliers, providing specifications for avgas grades designated for civil use, including 100, 100LL (Low Lead), and 100VLL (Very Low Lead).

The standard outlines performance, safety, and chemical requirements for aviation gasoline at the point of delivery, ensuring reliable engine operation over a variety of operating conditions. Through specific limits and mandatory testing methods, ASTM D910-24 supports both industry safety and consistency in aviation fuel quality worldwide.

Key Topics

• Aviation Gasoline Grades: ASTM D910-24 defines grades 100, 100LL, and 100VLL, each with precise octane and performance number requirements, color identification, and allowable lead content.
• Critical Fuel Properties: Specifies octane ratings (lean and rich mixture knock values), tetraethyl lead levels, fuel density, distillation ranges, vapor pressure, sulfur content, freezing point, net heat of combustion, and electrical conductivity.
• Additive Controls: Regulates antioxidants, dyes (for grade identification), corrosion inhibitors, fuel system icing inhibitors, and electrical conductivity additives.
• Testing Requirements: Mandates established ASTM test methods for fuel quality assessment, covering knock characteristics, lead and sulfur content, distillation, freezing point, corrosion potential, and more.
• International Applicability: Stipulates the use of SI units and aligns with globally recognized principles, supporting international conformity and procurement processes.

Applications

ASTM D910-24 plays a pivotal role in the aviation sector, ensuring that aviation gasoline:

• Meets Safety Standards: The standards for vapor pressure, freezing point, and stability help guarantee reliable engine performance in varying environmental conditions.
• Supports Regulatory Compliance: The specification is referenced by civilian and governmental fleet operators, including the U.S. Department of Defense.
• Enables Global Procurement: By establishing uniform specifications, it facilitates global trade and ensures fuels sourced worldwide will be compatible with certified piston aviation engines.
• Prevents Engine Issues: Requirements such as limits on lead, sulfur, and gum content protect fuel systems and engines from fouling, corrosion, and power loss.
• Color Coding: Distinct colors for each avgas grade (e.g., blue for 100LL, green for 100) reduce the risk of misfueling and ensure safety during fueling operations.

Industries and organizations benefiting from this standard include:

• Aircraft manufacturers and operators
• Fuel producers and distributors
• Regulatory agencies and certification bodies
• Maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) organizations

Related Standards

Leaded aviation gasoline quality and testing are further supported by several related ASTM standards, including:

• ASTM D7547: Specification for Hydrocarbon Unleaded Aviation Gasoline
• ASTM D4057: Practice for Manual Sampling of Petroleum and Petroleum Products
• ASTM D4177: Practice for Automatic Sampling of Petroleum and Petroleum Products
• ASTM D2700: Test Method for Motor Octane Number of Spark-Ignition Engine Fuel
• ASTM D2392: Test Method for Color of Dyed Aviation Gasolines
• ASTM D2622, D1266, D5453: Methods for Sulfur determination in petroleum products
• ASTM D873: Test Method for Oxidation Stability
• ASTM D2624: Methods for Electrical Conductivity of Aviation and Distillate Fuels

These standards, among others referenced in ASTM D910-24, create a comprehensive framework for the production, testing, and quality assurance of aviation gasolines worldwide.

Conclusion

ASTM D910-24 is critical for ensuring fuel quality, operational safety, and regulatory compliance in the aviation industry. By specifying clear requirements and methods for leaded aviation gasoline, the standard supports consistent, global fuel quality for piston-engine aircraft, safeguarding both equipment and lives. For fuel suppliers, operators, and aviation authorities, adherence to ASTM D910-24 is essential for efficient and safe flight operations.