Filter blocking tendency tester eliminates problems for biodiesel and biodiesel blends’ winter problems

In response to operability and performance concerns of biodiesel and biodiesel blends in winter months, the BS EN 590 diesel fuel specification has included the filter blocking tendency test (IP 387 / ASTM D2068) as a mandatory requirement since November 2015. IP 387 procedure B must be performed on every batch of fuel covered by BS EN 590.

The automated TFBT (Tamson Filter Blocking-tendency tester) is the only instrument offering a graphical guided user interface using a resistive touch screen. This screen guides the user through the test procedure. This guidance results in reliable performance of this test and the user can see what the apparatus is doing when it strictly follows the prescribed steps in the test method. The fluid level, pressure and temperature of the sample are continuously monitored while it is pumped through the specified filter media into the fuel receiver beaker. Depending on the test, the result is calculated when 300 mL of sample is pumped or the test is aborted when the maximum pressure is exceeded.

The FBT result is displayed on the screen and is printed out. In the menu different parameters can be set for the test and the menu can be used for the calibration of the temperature, pressure, pump speed, and level sensor. The display provides the operator with real-time information during the test. The TFBT is the only instrument in the market offering all these features as standard, so no optional features (e.g software, printer, etc.) are needed to be purchased separately.