During this year’s seminars the topic of fuel sampling is one that has generated a fair bit of interest and welcome discussion. One of the points that has been reiterated, is the need for individual analysis samples to be a minimum of 1 litre each – remembering that if less than 3 litres in total is available, the competitor forfeits their right to retain a sample.
One of the queries arising from this on more than one occasion at the various sessions is, how can a litre be accurately measured in the sample can without resorting to weighing, or more intricate methods? Whilst there isn’t a simple answer, we have produced the following as guidance to ensure the minimum quantity is obtained.
The sample can pictured here has been marked up on the outside to indicate the point that 1 litre of fluid reaches. The 1 litre line sits just below the engraved manufacturers writing on the rear of the can.
We would suggest it would be good practice to ensure that the can is filled to at least the level of the writing, so that it can be certain that the required 1 litre is present.
Another query raised at the seminars was what are the rough costs of fuel testing, so that appropriate funds can be requested if – for example – the test is due to a protest from another competitor?
We are able to provide the following estimated costs depending on the type of test required. The most common component that is looked at in fuel tests is the Research Octane Number (RON), and note also that the cost of testing the RON is dependent on the whether it is above or below 100, so if the test is on fuel such as FIA spec. at 102 max, then the higher costs will need to be used. Remember that the Club or protestor will only pay the costs if the test shows the fuel to be legal, so if the fuel is meant to be below 100 RON, then only the lower price needs to be put forward. The competitor pays all costs if the test shows the fuel to be illegal and so will need to pay the higher costs if the result is over 100 RON in this example.
Motor Octane Number (MON): £284
Research Octane Number (RON): £275 (<100RON) / £518 (>100RON)
Oxygen %: £391
Sample retention and disposal (Per Litre): £17
We have only given estimated costs here for the components quoted in the NCR Ch.8 App.1 Art.1.9 Specifications Table, it is important that the type of test required is clearly established as a “full” test to all of the components declared in the British Standard will cost easily a few thousand pounds!
Fuel sampling cans are available for Scrutineers to buy at a cost of £4.70 each, online through the Motorsport UK webshop or by contacting our sales team at sales@motorsportuk.org.
Note that these current prices are subject to review and alteration, any changes in the prices will be advised trough future editions of the Scrutineers Bulletin.