Episode 067 - Back to School - Fuel Sampling Part 2

This episode explores proper fuel sampling techniques and locations for different types of fuel testing. Erik Bjornstad explains how contaminants concentrate at tank bottoms, making sampling location crucial for accurate test results. He details specific sampling heights for different tests, introduces the bacon bomb sampler, and provides guidance on sample handling.

The episode covers testing for physical properties, microbial contamination, and water content, emphasizing that bottom samples (3-6 inches from bottom) provide the best diagnostic value for comprehensive testing. The discussion includes proper container selection and sample preservation techniques.

Listen to the Full Episode:

What You'll Learn:

• How sampling location affects test accuracy
• Proper usage of a bacon bomb sampler
• Best sampling depths for different fuel tests
• Sample handling and preservation techniques
• Container selection for different test types
• Methods for measuring tank depth
• Best practices for comprehensive fuel testing

Ideas Worth Sharing:

Here are three notable quotes from the podcast episode:

• "Where you sample from in a fuel tank can have a big impact on the test results that you get from that sample."
• "For stability testing, we prefer a bottom sample for that."
• "A bacon bomb is a non-sparking metal cylinder... probably the most commonly used thing for taking fuel samples in the industry."

Resources Mentioned:

• Bacon bomb sampler
• Bell Performance sampling attachments (3-inch, 6-inch, and 12-inch)
• ASTM visual inspection standards
• Erik Bjornstad: LinkedIn

Show Notes:

[00:00:00] Introduction to fuel sampling best practices
[00:01:45] Discussion of sampling locations for different tests 
[00:02:00] Physical properties testing locations 
[00:03:00] Microbial contamination sampling 
[00:04:00] Water and sediment testing requirements 
[00:05:00] Sampling equipment and techniques 
[00:05:30] Bacon bomb sampler demonstration 
[00:08:00] Sample container recommendations 
[00:09:30] Best practices for multiple tests