Description

Kerosene is a liquid petroleum distillate obtained from crude oil refining. It belongs to the middle-distillate range and is used in fuel applications where its burning characteristics and handling properties meet the required specification. Kerosene grades vary by intended use and market, so each cargo should be assessed against its stated specification.

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How is kerosene produced?

In a refinery, crude oil is heated and separated by distillation into fractions with different boiling ranges. Kerosene is collected as a middle fraction, generally between the lighter naphtha range and heavier diesel-range streams. Depending on the crude oil and target grade, the kerosene stream may be further treated, including hydrotreating to reduce sulfur and other unwanted components. It is then tested before storage and distribution.

The finished product must meet the specification agreed for its intended application. Industrial or heating kerosene and aviation turbine fuel have different qualification requirements.

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What is kerosene used for?

Depending on the grade, local requirements, and equipment design, kerosene may be used for:

• Heating and cooking equipment designed for kerosene
• Selected industrial burners and process-heating applications
• Wick-fed lamps and other lighting equipment designed for kerosene

Ordinary kerosene is not automatically aviation fuel. Jet A and Jet A-1 are kerosene-type aviation fuels that must meet their own stringent specifications and quality controls. A kerosene product should only be sold or used for an application it is certified to meet.

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Key properties to check

• Density
• Flash point
• Distillation range
• Sulfur and water content
• Appearance and any grade-specific requirements

Review the product specification and a recent Certificate of Analysis before purchase or application.

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Availability & specification

Product availability and the specification of a particular kerosene grade vary by supplier. Contact our team for the grade, specification, Certificate of Analysis, current pricing and delivery options.

Technical references: U.S. Energy Information Administration — “Refining crude oil: the refining process” and “Glossary: Kerosene”; ASTM International — “D3699 Standard Specification for Kerosine” and “D1655 Standard Specification for Aviation Turbine Fuels”.