Performing the smoke point test manually requires highly skilled technician with years of experience. Additionally, the manual test is time consuming. The automation of the smoke point test introduced by AD Systems had drastically improved the precision of the test in comparison with the original manual method, and consequently became the referee in ASTM D1322 and IP 598.

It uses a system that adjusts the size of the flame associated to a video camera that observes the flame. When the flame attains the shape described in the test method, the SP20 memorizes and reports the height of the flame.

The SP20 comes with embedded temperature, humidity and pressure sensors. An atmospheric conditions compensation (patent pending) can then be applied.

Upon switching on, the SP20 is ready for a direct sample measurement, no matter of the ambient conditions, reducing by 2 hours the labor normally spent for the complete calibration procedure, including the preparation of the 7 mixes.

Applications:

• Refineries
• Pipeline and terminals
• Military fuel testing
• Jet fuel testing

Methods:

• ASTM D1322
• ASTM D1655
• IP 598
• DEF STAN 01-091
• FTM 791-2107
• JIS K2537

Benefits:

Quick, easy, and objective rating
The SP20 is an automated instrument that strictly follows the test method with an improved precision. It eliminates the subjectivity inherent to the manual test where the visual rating of the flame varies from one operator to another. Thanks to its digital imaging technology, the shape of the flame described in the test method is automatically repeatedly determined and corresponding flame height is precisely recorded in the same conditions.

Increases safety
The SP20 totally eliminates all safety risks linked to the visual observation of an open flame.

Reduces labor
The SP20 is a “Set it and Forget it” instrument. Once the candle is prepared and positioned on the conveyor, the operator keys in all test details and starts the test. Then all the test phases are automatic. The operator time is reduced to its minimum. With its embedded temperature, humidity and pressure sensors, an atmospheric conditions compensation (patent pending) can be applied, then only one single set of calibration is needed.

Mimics strictly the manual method with improved precision
The SP20 is an automated instrument. It is using exactly the same lamp and candle as the manual method. The precision is significantly improved because the CCD camera with its associated software always determine the perfect flame shape corresponding to the method description. All errors linked to the operator subjectivity are eliminated.

Quality Procedure features
The SP20 includes a built-in result data base. All details related to each test result are memorized. In addition, all information related to the instrument calibration is memorized to ensure a perfect traceability.