A giant leap forward for lubricity testing of aviation turbine fuels 

Paltro, the automation and A.I. division of Ducom, is excited to introduce their fully automated BOCLE 2.0 ball on cylinder lubricity tester for Aviation Turbine Fuels.
BOCLE utilises a ball on cylinder contact geometry with a steel ball loaded against a steel ring dipped in a bath containing the fuel under test.
A typical test of 45 minutes, consist of a pre-treatment of 15 minutes and actual test of 30 minutes. On completion of test, the ball wear scar is measured under a microscope.
The mean wear scar is an indication of the fuel lubricity, with lower values associated with superior lubricity.
The test parameters and test sequence are governed by ASTM D5001 standard, involving a prescribed protocol.
BOCLE 2.0 automates these activities to reduce user effort and intervention, thereby allowing a lab to assess fuel lubricity effortlessly for rapid decision making.

There are a number of key features of BOCLE 2.0. A unique hybrid automated loading, where the calibrated weight is applied automatically on completion of the pre-treatment step. A soft, motorised loading eliminates impact and jerk, completely eliminating user intervention and variability.
A conditioned air unit with programmed logic controls the valves and the flow rates with automatic switch over from pre-treatment to test phase.
Inbuilt sensors and data acquisition continuously monitor and log the test conditions for each test with a unique ID. This can be retrieved ensuring complete traceability.
Slide-n-fit spacers allow the lower ring to be laterally offset after a test allowing 10 tests to be conducted per ring. This allows a lab to maximise utilisation of consumables.
An intuitive and simple user interface allows users to execute the complete test sequence with a single click. Additional water level and pressure sensors alert user to routine maintenance activities.
A single source supplier for instrument, test rings, balls and accessories ensures better quality control.

Fully automated BOCLE 2. 0, ensures unattended operation for a 45-minute test, freeing up time for other activities, and thereby enhancing lab productivity.

Stay tuned for more news on BOCLE 2.0 automation.