239 KB
Mar 31, 2025, 4:05 PM UTC
The document outlines the Statement of Work (SOW) for the Piston Aviation Fuels Initiative (PAFI) Material Compatibility Testing led by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). This initiative aims to transition piston-engine aircraft to unleaded aviation fuels, replacing the leaded 100LL gasoline, in alignment with the 2024 FAA Reauthorization Act. The scope includes extensive materials testing to evaluate compatibility with an unleaded candidate fuel, ensuring safety and compliance with aviation standards.
Key components of the SOW include program management practices, safety protocols for handling fuels, detailed test procedures for various materials (hoses, bladder, sealants, etc.), and comprehensive reporting requirements. The contractor is tasked with conducting relevant tests while adhering to FAA guidelines and ensuring non-disclosure of proprietary information. Furthermore, all testing results and related data are the FAA's property. The document emphasizes collaborative participation between the contractor and the FAA, ensuring transparency throughout the testing phases and compliance with health and safety regulations. The overarching goal is to facilitate a safe transition to lead-free aviation fuels by 2030, significantly impacting environmental and aviation safety standards.
5 MB
Mar 31, 2025, 4:05 PM UTC
The PAFI Materials Compatibility Test Plan (PAFI-MTP-002) outlines the requirements and procedures for conducting comparative materials compatibility testing for the FAA Piston Aviation Fuels Initiative (PAFI). The plan aims to evaluate alternative unleaded aviation fuels and ensure their compatibility with existing aviation materials currently using 100LL aviation gasoline, as specified in ASTM D-910. Key objectives include assessing changes in tensile, elongation, volume swell, and surface degradation of hoses, bladders, sealants, elastomers, paint systems, fabrics, and distribution hoses following fuel exposure.
The document emphasizes adherence to established military, FAA, SAE, and ASTM standards for testing, specifying that all results are to be validated and that testing must be witnessed by FAA representatives. The plan consists of detailed tasks, including sample preparation, test conditions, and evaluation criteria, intended to generate data necessary for FAA fleet authorizations. The testing is not mandatory but presents guidance for aviation stakeholders considering the introduction of new fuel formulations. This comprehensive approach highlights the FAA's commitment to maintaining material integrity and safety standards in general aviation while exploring greener fuel options.