What is the fuel of an airplane?

 

The primary fuels used for airplanes are Jet-A and Jet-A1, which are types of kerosene-based fuel designed for jet engines. For smaller, piston-engine aircraft, aviation gasoline (avgas) is commonly used.

Jet Fuel

Jet-A and Jet-A1:

Type: These are kerosene-based fuels.

Usage: Used in commercial jets and many military aircraft.

Properties: They have a high energy content, which makes them efficient for long flights. They also have a low freezing point, so they don't freeze at high altitudes where it's extremely cold.

Differences: Jet-A1 has a slightly lower freezing point than Jet-A, making it more suitable for international flights that might encounter extremely cold temperatures.

Aviation Gasoline 

(Avgas)Avgas:

Type: This is a high-octane gasoline.

Usage: Used in smaller aircraft with piston engines, like those flown by private pilots or for flight training.

Properties: It has a higher octane rating than regular car gasoline. The higher octane helps prevent engine knocking, which can be damaging to high-performance aircraft engines.

Common Varieties: Avgas 100LL (Low Lead) is one of the most common types, known for its blue color and lower lead content compared to older formulations.

Why Different Fuels?

Jet Engines: Jet engines operate at high altitudes and speeds, where temperatures can drop significantly. Kerosene-based fuels like Jet-A and Jet-A1 are designed to perform well in these conditions, providing the necessary thrust and efficiency.

Piston Engines: These engines are more similar to car engines and require gasoline to function properly. Avgas is refined to be more stable and has a higher octane to support the higher compression ratios found in aircraft engines.

Why This Matters

Using the right fuel is crucial for safety and efficiency. The wrong type of fuel can cause engine failure or reduced performance, which is especially dangerous in aviation. Therefore, the aviation industry has strict standards and regulations to ensure that the appropriate fuel is used for each type of aircraft.

In essence, jet fuel is like a super-refined kerosene perfect for high-altitude, high-speed travel, while avgas is a specialized gasoline designed to keep small airplane engines running smoothly and safely.