Automatic Cold Filter Plugging Point tester
Automatic CFPP analyzer AirSTAR
Methods: EN 116, IP 309, ASTM D6371, JIS K2288, EN 16329 (linear cooling method)
Orbis AirSTAR Cold Filter Plugging Point Tester (CFPP) with built-in cooling and all aspects and parts required for Cold Filter Plugging Point testing are housed inside the CFPP Head.
- Vacuum system measures and controls the (negative) pressure in real-time
- Ability to store the actual-used vacuum per each aspiration.
- Laser lights ensure accurate detection of the sample
- The pipette lock ensures that the pipette sits securely within the detection zone.
- The smart self-adjusting algorithm deals with condensation in the bottom.
- Easy to install PT-100 thermometer with built-in memory to hold unique ID and calibration data.
- Low chance of pipette breakage.
- Easy cleaning of the pipette using the Cleaning-Docking station.
- The CFPP Head is powered via induction when placed in the ColdBlock or the Cleaning-Docking Station.
- Cold block and cleaning station detect the head used automatically.
Airstar Automatic Cold Filter Plugging Point analyzer (CFPP) with built-in cooling.
The Cold Filter Plugging Point is a critical parameter for assessing the lowest temperature at which diesel and heating fuels can flow through a filter without clogging, essential for cold weather performance. This is particularly vital in regions with freezing temperatures, where fuel failure can lead to significant operational disruptions. The AirSTAR CFPP Head, manufactured by Orbis BV, is positioned as an advanced solution for precise and efficient CFPP testing, aligning with the growing demand for reliable fuel analysis tools.
AirSTAR ColdBlock
Cold Block is AirSTAR’s cooling system that requires no external chiller even when cooling down to -105˚C.
- Stirling cooler
AirSTAR’s ColdBlock is efficient and powerful based on the free-piston Stirling cooler principle. Homogeneous cooling of the bath jacket by special-designed heat pipe technology.
CFPP Head
The CFPP Head contains all parts required for the CFPP test
- Pipette
- Test jar
- Temperature probe (click-insert) + chip for calibration memory
- Filter unit, Filter holder & filter (45 μm mesh)
- Vacuum pump (microprocessor controlled) + pressure sensor
- Laser beam sample detectors
- Wireless power supply (from the ColdBlock / Cleaning-Docking station)
- Wireless data communication with iPad (secured local network)
User interface
- Built-in iPad with in-house iLabCB app makes the operation easy.
- Along with easy navigation, the app includes:
- Pre-installed and customizable methods.
- A unique insight into test behavior:
- Vacuum profile per every single CFPP aspiration
- Anomalous aspiration highlight
- “Not empty before next” highlight (CFPP-2)
- Results options include export to LIMS / Windows PC or print PDF/kiosk printer. With the 16Gb iPad, unlimited results storage.
- App- & firmware updates are always available free of charge.
The AirSTAR CFPP Head boasts several innovative features that set it apart in the CFPP analyzer market.
CFPP Head | |
| Methods | EN 116, IP 309, ASTM D6371, JIS K2288, EN 16329 (linear cooling method) |
| Sample detection | Laser technology: 1 laser in bottom of pipette, 2 lasers in top. Detection is not affected by condensation. |
| Vacuum control | Built-in vacuum pupm with real-time pressure regulation. Both constant and dynamic vacuum profiles programmable. Results contain actual vacuum profile of each singe ˚C aspiration. |
| Sample temperature measurement | Pt100 in-glass thermometer. 0.01˚C resolution. ˚C/˚F. Automatic probe ID detection with built-in calibration data storage. Calibration certificate included with probe. Metal probe optionally available. |
| Test Settings | Start test at room-, custom- or Cloud Point-related temperature. PreCool function brings bath jacket to first cooling step before entering sample jar. Test intervals programmable. |
| Cleaning | Done in Cleaning-Docking Station, in addition to cleaning routine as prescribed in the test method. |
| Power | Wireless, powered from ColdBlock / Cleaning Docking Station. |
| Weight | <1 kg |
Cold Block | |
| Cooling | Integrated cooling based on stirling motor technology. Maximum capacity -105˚C to 65˚C. No external chiller, liquids or moving parts involved. Stepped and linear cooling profiles programmable. Linear cooling speed capacity 1˚C – 120˚C p/hr. |
| Software interface | iPad mini (Retina touch screen) fixed inside ColdBlock. iLabCB software application. |
| Connectivity | RJ45 LAN port for connection to Windows PC / network / LIMS / printer. |
| Sample temperature measurement | Pt100 in-glass thermometer. 0.01˚C resolution. ˚C/˚F. Automatic probe ID detection with built-in calibration data storage. Calibration certificate included with probe. Metal probe optionally available. |
| Data formats and storage | PDF (send & print), XML, JSON. 64Gb |
| Cleaning | Done in Cleaning-Docking Station, in addition to cleaning routine as prescribed in the test method. |
| Power | Wireless, powered from ColdBlock / Cleaning Docking Station. |
| Weight | 25 kg |
| Dimensions | 16cm x 59cm (W x D) |
| Ambient conditions | Ambient temperature: min: 10˚C – max: 35˚C Ambient humidity: max: 85% |
The Cold Filter Plugging Point (CFPP) analyzer is a critical tool for determining the low-temperature operability of various fuels, primarily diesel and related products.
- Fuel Quality Control:
- It’s essential for ensuring that fuels, especially diesel and heating oils, meet required low-temperature flow specifications. This is crucial for preventing fuel system blockages in cold climates.
- It’s used in refineries and fuel testing laboratories to monitor the quality of fuel production and distribution.
- Diesel and Biodiesel Blends:
- CFPP analyzers are vital for assessing the low-temperature performance of diesel and biodiesel blends, which can vary significantly depending on the blend composition.
- Additives and Antifreeze Agents:
- The analyzer is used to evaluate the effectiveness of cold flow improver additives, which are designed to enhance the low-temperature performance of fuels.
- Fuel System Operability:
- It provides an estimate of the lowest temperature at which a fuel will flow without causing problems in fuel systems. This information is crucial for vehicle and machinery operation in cold weather.
- Standardization and Testing:
- CFPP analyzers are used in standardization and testing institutes to ensure compliance with industry standards, such as ASTM D6371, IP 309, and EN 116.
- Research and Development:
- In research and development, CFPP analyzers are used to study the low-temperature properties of new fuel formulations and additives.
- Petroleum Industry:
- It is used throughout the petroleum industry, from upstream to downstream operations, to ensure the quality and reliability of fuel products.
- Transportation Industry:
- It is very important to the transportation industry, to insure that vehicles can operate in cold climates.
