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 Fuels Performance Evaluations
The Fuels Performance Evaluations
Section in the Fuels and Lubricants Research Division evaluates the
durability, design, and performance of all types of automotive products. A major activity
involves the evaluation of gasolines and gasoline additives for their effects throughout
the fuel, induction, combustion, and exhaust systems. Deposit formation and its effects on
emissions, driveability, octane requirement, fuel economy, and vehicle performance are
routinely investigated. All types of automotive products are evaluated for performance in
real-world conditions, such as coolants, engine oils, transmission fluids, electronic
systems, belts, and fuel pumps. Vehicles are operated on public roadways, mileage
accumulation dynamometers, or test tracks to provide a large variety of driving patterns
and conditions. Temperature effects can be evaluated down to -28 degrees C in a large
cold-room. The durability and performance of alternative-fueled vehicles are evaluated,
such as compressed natural gas (CNG), methanol, and LPG. Other activities include
competitive vehicle analysis, mobile data acquisition, development and refinement of test
methods, investigation of component durability, and performance.
Fuel Blending Facility
A 6,000-square foot fuel blending facility provides specialized blending of automotive
fuels and temperature controlled storage of fuel and fuel additives. Fuel blending is
performed in seven stainless steel tanks, six of which have 600-gallon capacities while
the seventh has an 1,100-gallon capacity. Various blends of fuels and fuel additives can
be performed, on a volumetric basis, including gasoline, diesel, ethanol, and methanol.
The facility has a temperature-controlled room for storage of up to ninety-six 55-gallon
drums. Temperature-controlled fuel additive storage and measurement rooms are combined in
the facility.
Brent Shoffner,
Manager
Technical strengths and contacts in the section include:
Fuels and Driveline Lubricants Research Department
Fuels and Lubricants Research Division
SwRI Technical Divisions
 SwRI Home
January 05, 2009
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