Jet Fuels: JP-8 (3773) vs. JP-8 (4177)

[Saladsamurai]

Can anybody point me in the direction of some documentation that can help me to distinguish between these two fuels? I have been searching for hours and I keep coming across articles that use these as sample fuels in experiments, but none that actually describes the numbering convention?

I understand that JP-8 Jet A + additives, but what are the differences between the JP-8's themselves?

I have also see it as JP-8 POSF 3773 and JP-8 POSF 4177.

Any help is appreciated.

 

[AlephZero]

The POSF numbers appear to be identifiers for specific fuel samples from Wright Patterson A/F Base, produced by different methods.

This gives the composition of 3773 (and two others, but not 4177).

http://idea.library.drexel.edu/bitstream/1860/3125/1/Kurman%20_Matthew%20S.pdf

I suspect there isn't any "numbering convention", except that 3774 is the next sample after 3773.

Presumably WPAB keeps a database ...

 

[NatSusan]

Sure, I can try to help you out with some information about JP-8 and Jet A fuels. Both of these fuels are commonly used in aviation, but they do have some distinct differences.

First, let's start with Jet A. This fuel is a kerosene-based fuel that is used in commercial and civilian aircraft. It is also commonly used in ground vehicles and heating systems. Jet A has a lower freezing point and is less volatile than other aviation fuels, making it safer to handle and transport. It is also cheaper than other aviation fuels, making it a popular choice for commercial airlines.

Now, let's talk about JP-8. This fuel is a type of military jet fuel that is very similar to Jet A, but with some added additives. These additives give JP-8 a higher flash point and improved thermal stability, making it more suitable for military operations in extreme conditions. JP-8 is also more expensive than Jet A due to the added additives.

As for the numbering convention, JP-8 fuels are assigned different numbers based on their composition and performance characteristics. The numbers you mentioned, POSF 3773 and POSF 4177, are specific designations for JP-8 fuels used by the military. These designations indicate the specific additives and performance characteristics of the fuel.

In summary, Jet A and JP-8 are both kerosene-based fuels used in aviation, with JP-8 being a type of military jet fuel with added additives for improved performance. The numbers used to designate JP-8 fuels indicate their specific composition and performance characteristics. I hope this helps clarify the differences between these two fuels.