The Feasibility of Using Jet Fuel as a Compression Ignition Fuel

Jet fuel, primarily composed of kerosene such as Jet A or Jet A-1, is designed for use in turbine engines. However, it can also be used in certain types of compression ignition engines with modifications. This article explores the feasibility of using jet fuel as a compression fuel and the key points related to its use.

Key Points

Energy Content

Jet fuel has a high energy density, providing a significant amount of energy per volume. This makes it beneficial for various applications where high energy output is required.

Combustion Characteristics

Jet fuel burns differently than traditional diesel fuel. It has a lower cetane number, which means it ignites less readily under compression compared to diesel. This can lead to issues with combustion efficiency and engine performance in standard diesel engines.

Modifications

Some engines can be modified to utilize jet fuel effectively. This may involve adjusting the fuel injection system or the compression ratio to accommodate the different combustion properties.

Applications in Aviation

In aviation, some experimental or military engines have been designed to run on jet fuel or other kerosene-based fuels, demonstrating its viability under specific conditions.

Environmental Considerations

While using jet fuel in compression ignition engines can be technically feasible, it may not be the most environmentally friendly option due to higher emissions.

Urban exploration in the form of niche investigations also reveals that some practices were adapted to enhance the use of jet fuel in diesel engines. For example, adding a couple of gallons of non-detergent motor oil to the fuel before use in ground equipment can improve lubrication, reducing engine wear over time.

In practical scenarios, jet fuel has been used in diesel engines, particularly in military settings. During deployments in Iraq and Afghanistan, JP-8, a variant of jet fuel, was run in all diesel engines without significant issues, highlighting its adaptability.

Conclusion

While jet fuel can be utilized in certain compression ignition engines with modifications, it is not a direct substitute for conventional diesel fuel due to differences in combustion characteristics and lubrication quality.