REFUELLER COMMISSIONING REQUIREMENTS

REFUELLER COMMISSIONING REQUIREMENTS:

Before commissioning new refuelling vehicles such as refuelling tankers and hydrant services some significant tests shall be conducted to ensure good quality fuel and safe operations during refuelling and fuel handling operations.

Hoses of the refueller shall be tested before commissioning under 20 bar (300 psi) using a hydrostatic test pump to ensure that they don’t have any leakage, external damage and are in good condition. Hoses shall be flushed with at least 2000 liters (500 galons). In order to detect any manufacturing residues the flushed fuel and the hose end strainer shall be visually inspected and  a colorimetric test shall be conducted. Hoses shall be left to soak for at least 8 hours at an temperature not exceeding the flash point of fuel.

Another test which shall be conducted before commissioning is the gravimetric filter membrane test. Gravimetric filter membrane test shall be performed to ensure that the filter elements and hoses are in good condition and fuel is free of particules.

In addition to these the pressure control system of the refueller shall be tested to protect the aircraft from excessive flow and shock (surge) pressures which can damage aircraft fuel systems. Critical pressure gauges such as venturi and nozzle pressure gauges shall be calibrated against a master gauge. Flow meter shall also be calibrated to operate with minimum accuracy to ensure correct operation.