STARDist Micro Distillation Tester Automated ASTM D7345 Unit

The STARDist micro is the advanced micro-distillation unit designed to meet the demands of modern analytical laboratories, combining rapid analysis in under 10 minutes with high precision. It is recognised globally as an approved alternative to conventional ASTM D86 methods, delivering results in direct correlation with both ASTM D86 and ASTM D1160 (B100). Requiring only a 10 mL sample, this unit significantly reduces chemical waste, cost per analysis, and laboratory footprint.

Innovation in Micro Distillation Technology

The ORBIS STARDist micro distillation unit represents the cutting edge of fuel analysis, delivering the power and compliance of full-scale D86 testing in a compact, rapid, and significantly safer 10 mL platform. Designed for the analytical demands of high-throughput laboratories and critical mobile testing environments.  STARDist micro distillation analyzer provides a verifiable and reliable alternative method to conventional distillation, drastically improving efficiency and reducing operational costs.

The Definitive ASTM D86 Alternative

Regulatory compliance and correlation are paramount in the fuel industry. The STARDist micro is fully compliant with the micro-distillation standards ASTM D7345, EN 17306, and IP 596. Crucially, it is recognised as an approved alternative and delivers results that are in direct correlation with the traditional methods: ASTM D86, ASTM D1160 (B100), ISO 3405, and IP 123. This assurance means that laboratories can transition to the faster, safer micro-method without sacrificing the integrity or comparability of their data. The unit also includes a unique Built-in D86 bias verification feature, which instantly compares measured values against D86 acceptance criteria, ensuring confidence in every result

Unparalleled Throughput and Efficiency

In competitive laboratory environments, time and sample consumption are critical metrics. The STARDist micro distillation analyser requires a minimal 10 mL sample size, a significant reduction from D86, leading directly to a massive decrease in chemical waste and associated disposal costs. Furthermore, the determination of boiling range characteristics for fuels like gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel is completed in under 10 minutes. This rapid turnaround allows for faster quality control decisions, increasing laboratory throughput and overall operational productivity. The one-touch operation and computer-controlled distillation process further ensure high precision and minimise potential for operator error.

Intelligent Automation and Advanced Diagnostics

The true technical advantage of the micro distillation analyser lies in its intelligent automation. The system features automatic sample recognition, which is a significant innovation. Instead of requiring the user to manually select a product group (e.g., diesel or gasoline), the STARDist micro analyses the sample and dynamically generates an optimised heating profile. This level of smart operation ensures the highest accuracy regardless of the fuel blend or operator experience.

For aviation and diesel applications, the unit goes beyond standard distillation by providing a predicted closed cup flash point for aviation kerosene and diesel oil. This is an invaluable pre-screening tool for safety and specification compliance.

Integrated Safety for Operator and Environment

Safety is non-negotiable when testing volatile petroleum products. The STARDist micro distillation analyzer is built with advanced, integrated safety systems that exceed standard expectations.

Continuous System Diagnostics: A network of sensors continuously verifies system integrity. A software-guided startup routine monitors instrument status and ensures all components are within operational limits before any test begins.

Integrated Fire Suppression: For immediate fire protection, a high-sensitivity sensor detects abnormal heat conditions within milliseconds, automatically triggering the built-in fire extinguishing system to protect both the instrument and the surrounding lab environment.

This focus on enhanced safety, combined with the low 10 mL sample volume, addresses modern laboratory requirements for reduced hazard and waste, making the STARDist micro distillation analyzer an ideal, responsible choice for the fuel testing market.

User Experience and Connectivity

The custom software gives a clear, reliable live read-out during testing, allowing users to visualise the distillation process in real time on the touch screen interface. Upon completion, all relevant data points are displayed in a clear, structured format for efficient review and validation. The robust connectivity suite features 2 x USB, 1x HDMI, and 1x Ethernet ports to enable seamless integration with LIMS, barcode readers, and external printers for fully traceable documentation.