1. What It Is: JP54 (Colonial Grade 54) is an aviation turbine fuel used primarily in military and commercial jet engines. Though often referenced in fuel trading, JP54 is not a formal ASTM specification—it’s a trade name historically used in the U.S. for fuel close to Jet A-1 with military-grade quality.
2. Key Specifications (Typical JP54 / Jet A-1):
- Type: Aviation turbine kerosene
- Flash Point: Min 38°C
- Freezing Point: Max −47°C
- Density @15°C: ~0.775–0.840kg/l
- Sulfur Content: Max 0.3%
- Smoke Point: Min 25 mm
- Viscosity @ −20°C: Max 8.0 cSt
- Energy Content: ~42.8 MJ/kg
3. Common Features:- Similar to Jet A-1, but with slightly different refining/treatment
- Contains antioxidants, metal deactivators, and sometimes static dissipators
- Meant for turbine-powered aircraft, including jets and turboprops
4. Applications:
- Commercial aviation
- Military jet aircraft
- Cargo planes and some private jets
- Helicopters (turbine engines)
5. Trade Notes: - JP54 is often mentioned in fuel trading contracts, but in practice, fuel is typically supplied as Jet A-1 meeting ASTM D1655 or DEF STAN 91-91
- Commonly exported from Russia, UAE, Netherlands, and USA
- Requires Q&Q inspection (e.g., SGS, Saybolt) at loading point
- Delivered via pipeline, barge, or tanker depending on volume and location
Important Clarification:
"JP54" is an outdated or informal commercial term. Modern aviation fuel is usually specified as Jet A (USA) or Jet A-1 (international), both meeting current ASTM/DEF STAN specs.
