CTS Technology

CFR Engines Inc. CTS Technology

Taking Online Blending to the Next Level

CFR® is taking online blending to the next level with its Continuous Testing System (CTS). Integrated with CFR’s state-of-the-art XCP® Technology, it allows automatic, 24/7 operation linking one or more engines to the refinery’s online octane blending system. The CTS fully complies with the industry standard ASTM Method for online direct comparison tests (D2885 – Octane Number by Online Direct Comparison).

Designed with the operator in mind, the CTS utilizes the XCP® to provide customizable remote monitoring and control capabilities and allows for standard output screens, unit/system status and control, real-time performance curves, and data table summaries. Like all CFR Engines Inc. products, the CTS is designed, manufactured, and tested to work as part of your operation’s integrated and reliable solution. The engine, parts, accessories, instrumentation, and control system are all provided by CFR® to operate together with seamless efficiency. The Continuous Testing System is available on new octane testing units and as a bolt-on upgrade to most existing online engines.

Click here for CTS Technology Brochure

System Management

Inherent to all XCP platforms, an on-board full function industrial Windows®-based PC manages all primary functions of the CTS including system operation, measurement, data storage, and control. The CTS design allows each machine to maintain its own onboard data storage and independent network connectivity, while also supporting easier integration of multiple online units via Modbus onto a User’s master SCADA system.

User Interface

Supported by XCP Technology, the CTS has intuitive and accessible menus for total instrument control. Built-in prompts, automated calculations, and data logging greatly reduce the chance for operator errors and allow operators to be quickly cross-trained for improved workflow resulting in increased throughput and productivity. CTS monitoring screens provide the added features of universal graphic icons and the ability to set all the key online testing parameters.

Flexible Control

The CTS system runs on a standard CFR engine configured for ASTM D2699 or D2700 falling level format with a special system of valves and reservoirs. Fuel is sampled, conditioned, and presented to the engine through a series of valves and sensors. Knock intensity is continuously monitored and recorded as the fuel/air ratio is swept from rich to lean. The system switches between line sample and prototype according to D2885 and customer needs. The data is stored and fed back to the blending operator continuously.

Remote Monitoring

XCP Technology provides the measurement accuracy of digital instrumentation, the flexibility and ease of use of computer-guided operation, and traceability and ease of reporting from a reliable database. The live data and graphs can continuously be monitored at each engine as well as remotely through CFR’s proprietary RAS (remote application software) system.

Multiple online engines can be accessed in the laboratory simultaneously using individual remote devices.

Reporting

The CTS provides both standardized and custom reporting capabilities. The system records and saves all parameters, including key parameters such as KI, Delta Octane, and Octane number. Reports from multiple engines can be accessed, analyzed, and customized through the CFR RAS system.

January 18, 2021January 18, 2021

Service & Training

March 13, 2019May 7, 2024

Accessories

CFR Genuine Accessories

Users can rely on the factory design and performance of a complete octane or cetane test package with CFR Genuine Accessories.

Important for any method compliant octane test is the proper treatment of intake air temperature and humidity. CFR offers multiple accessories that properly treat ambient room air and help deliver ideal intake air to the CFR engine. Whether the classic Ice Tower or a modern Engine Air Control System, CFR accessories for intake air are built for the long operating life that CFR products are known for.

Exhaust management is often overlooked as a source of testing challenges. The CFR Exhaust Surge Tank provides the correct back-pressure and temperature management for successful CFR engine operation. The Surge Tank accessory is supplied as standard equipment on any new CFR octane and cetane units, and can be retrofitted to any existing units.

Some accessories help a user get the longest life-cycle and use of a CFR product. Proper use of the redesigned Cylinder Carbon Blaster from CFR, allows users to maintain their unit, keep the cylinder in peak operating condition, and extend service intervals.

Gravimetric Blending System (GBS)

Our new Gravimetric Blending System (GBS) is engineered to provide the highest level of accuracy, ensuring that primary, secondary, and standard reference fuels, essential for the calibration and standardization of the CFR Engine, are blended with remarkable unmatched precision of ± 0.2%.

Seamless integration with XCP® TECHNOLOGY to enter desired fuel recipes, and push / pull data
Large HMI Panel for formulation selection (touch screen)
The ability to store standard recipes and options for manual input
Traceability database with ability to store specific blend operation data by operator (ISO 17025)
Remote Monitoring from anywhere
Robust fuel pumps and simple calibration through HMI
6 fuel tanks – each with a capacity of 10 liters, plus a fuel level indicator that provides notification of an empty tank
Mobile, cabinet is on wheels with safety interlocks

Click here for GBS Sell Sheet

Volumetric Blending System (VBS)

CFR Engines Inc. (CFR®) now offers the Volumetric Blending System (VBS) for the precise blending of primary, secondary, and standard fuels that is essential for the calibration and standardization of the CFR Engine.

Users can now rely on the factory design and performance of a complete blending system to ensure compliance when blending fuels for standardization.

Click here for VBS Sell Sheet

Engine Air Control System (EACS)

An Engine Air Control System (EACS) by CFR Engines Inc. delivers precise management of intake air temperature and humidity. The EACS easily integrates with existing CFR F1/ F2 units to form an overall octane testing system, and leverages XCP Technology to produce the most reliable Octane Number.

Like all CFR Engines Inc. products, the Engine Air Control System embodies industrial grade design. Whether it be the pumps, metal work, controls, or temperature/humidity management systems, you can trust that the product has been designed to provide years of reliable and consistent service. Additionally, with a nominal design operating range of 60- 100°F (16-38°C) and 10-60% relative humidity, the standard production EACS can reliably support operation in nearly all global environments.

The Engine Air Control System is available as a CFR Genuine Service Part or with any new unit and offered in two configurations – with or without engine air humidification.

High capacity design to accommodate a broad range of ambient temperatures and relative humidity’s
Operates seamlessly with XCP Technology or as a stand-alone system
Industrial grade components and construction for extended life
Built in on-board system diagnostics as well as data recording capability when paired with XCP Technology
Compliant to all procedures of the current ASTM® Methods: D2699, D2700, and D2885

Click here for EACS Sell Sheet

Cylinder Carbon Blaster

CFR Engines Inc. released a new design of its commonly used Cylinder Carbon Blaster with more robust construction and improved material handling for increased octane combustion chamber cleaning efficiency and reliability. Users can easily maximize the operating life of their cylinders and extend the period between mechanical top-end overhauls with regular cleanings using the CFR Cylinder Carbon Blaster.

Cleaning and regular maintenance reduces damaging deposits and build up, restores temperature tuning ranges, and reduces downtime and cost of premature overhauls. Low mixture temperatures (MON) or low intake air temperatures (RON) will dictate when cylinder carbon blasting should be done. Effective carbon blasting addresses the combustion chamber, as well as the valve ports. Cleaning with the CFR Cylinder Carbon Blaster can be done with the cylinder remaining in-place on the engine.

Durable design with all-steel components and welded construction
Nozzle engineered for maximum flow and cleaning efficiency
Large format valve levers and pressure gauge for ease of use
Longer operating times with extra capacity media hopper
Built in safeties to prevent over-pressure, misconnected hoses, and static discharge
Environmentally friendly cleaning practice for carbon removal

Click here for Carbon Blaster Sell Sheet

Exhaust Surge Tank

The exhaust surge tank is an important accessory for any CFR octane or cetane engine installation. The CFR surge tank provides a chamber for the safe drainage cooling water and venting of engine exhaust. Within the surge tank, engine exhaust is cooled and any condensed water is separated. Most importantly, a properly vented exhaust surge tank acts as a resonance chamber for the engine and eliminates pulsation and back-pressure influences on a test procedure. An exhaust surge tank from CFR provides a safe and long lasting exhaust solution that is designed to work with the CFR test engine and allow the engine to perform its best.

CFR Original Ice Tower

The Ice Tower from CFR Engines Inc. is the original solution for conditioning engine intake air. Durable construction and simple design allow for years of reliable use. Ambient air is drawn over ice to reduce temperature and humidity to a method compliant levels for octane engine intake air. The ice tower accessory is a trusted basic option for many users, but is not adjustable to accommodate a wider range of global site conditions. The ice tower also does not have any data capture or XCP integration capabilities to support the increasing needs of fuel testing precision and accountability.

March 13, 2019April 12, 2024

XCP Technology

XCP™ Technology

Standard for Octane and Cetane Rating Units

XCP™ Technology remains the modern instrumentation of choice for octane and cetane testing. CFR continues to apply advances in design, measurement, and control to its XCP Technology platform.The XCP Digital Control Panel brings advanced functionality, increased automation, enhanced documentation capabilities and future expansion opportunities to the CFR fuel rating units. Designed with the operator in mind, the XCP panel is intuitive, easy-to-use, CE Mark compliant, and accommodates users of all skill levels. XCP Technology is standard on all octane and cetane testing units, and can be retrofitted to most existing CFR units.

Click here for XCP Sell Sheet

Intuitive and Complete Interface

XCP Technology combines a PC based touchscreen interface with intuitive and accessible menus for total instrument control. With XCP Technology, operators can quickly become proficient and comfortable using both Octane and Cetane testing units. Built-in prompts, automated calculations, and data logging greatly reduce the chance for operator errors, and allow operators to be quickly cross-trained for improved work flow resulting in increased throughput and productivity.

More Consistent Results

XCP Technology provides an easy-to-learn common software interface that drives consistency in results from operator to operator. Additionally, the XCP provides test procedure guidance and handles data recording of all critical measurements. This allows a user to focus on successful unit operation and compliance to test methods. Consistency if further improved with the XCP precisely managing air and mixture temperatures, as well as and barometer influence for octane rating tests. At the end of each test, results are presented in a convenient summary and the user remains in control of next actions.

Automated Data Recording

XCP Technology captures critical test data automatically and displays information using bold graphics and easy-to-read charts. Auxiliary screens show live data trending for critical ambient and test parameters. All settings, adjustments, and performance data is time stamped and recorded into an on-board database. The XCP is capable of internet/network connectivity to support integration into a Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS).

XCP Cetane Rating Screen with Auxiliaries

Testing Accuracy and Accountability

XCP Technology provides the documented accountability users need to provide certifiable octane and cetane testing. All of the stored database information is accessible in a convenient tabulated spreadsheet. Data tables of all test conditions, graphs of fuel rating curves, and formatted test report documents are ready to support any testing certification requirements. With XCP, users can easily prove their results and the accuracy of their process.

Speed and Flexibility

XCP Technology is quick to learn and offers easy-to-follow templates that guides new or additional users through the octane and cetane testing procedures. With automatic data recording and test report generation, XCP users are able to focus more conducting a successful test. Further user conveniences like an automatic integrated barometer, “Next Fuel” button for progressing a test, and octane rating estimator tool for sample approximation help users save time and effort. With XCP Technology, laboratories can maximize their operator cross-training and effectiveness.

Octane Analyzer – Automated RON/MON Testing

Building upon past learnings, the newest Octane Analyzer (OA) option from CFR Engines Inc. delivers the expanded benefits that users desire. The OA option is CE Mark compliant and can be applied to existing CFR F1/F2 units with XCP Technology and provide users an automated octane rating test. With the Octane Analyzer users can expect improved consistency amongst multiple operators and better repeatability on consecutive passes.

The Octane Analyzer upgrade option provides capability to run all four test procedures of the current ASTM® Methods D2699 (RON) and D2700 (MON). With the expanded benefit of being able to now run Procedure D (Bracketing OA), users can capitalize on faster octane rating test results and better utilization of lab resources

Click here for OA Sell Sheet

Automatically complete full 2-pass tests – setup test, fill fuel reservoirs, hit start and then wait for the report
Test with the broader Octane Number ranges of Procedure D: 72-103.5 MON and 72-108 RON
Manual fuel switching, air/fuel adjustments, and data recording are now automatic
Reduced test time of approximately 20 minutes for a complete and certifiable octane rating determination
Reduced fuel consumption, approximately 100 mL for each fuel (sample and two primaries)

March 13, 2019April 12, 2024

Cetane Rating

CFR Engines Inc. Cetane Rating Unit

Model: F5

The CFR® F5 Cetane Rating Unit is the globally accepted standard for determining and certifying the ignition quality of diesel fuels. First introduced in 1938, the CFR F5 today continues to provide a stable, accurate testing platform for defining the ignition quality of diesel fuels. The CFR F5 enables the automotive and petroleum industries to develop new engines and fuels that perform together more effectively. As the most accurate method to measure the cetane number of diesel fuels, the CFR F5 also helps to ensure the integrity of the fuel supply chain from refinery to the pump.

The CFR F5 Cetane Rating Unit is the specified equipment for testing fuels according to:

ASTM D613: Standard Test Method for Cetane Number of Diesel Fuel Oil
IP 41: Petroleum Products – Determination of the ignition quality of diesel fuels – Cetane engine method
EN ISO 5165: Petroleum Products – Determination of the ignition quality of diesel fuels – Cetane engine method

Click here for F5 Brochure

Confidence in a Fully Integrated Fuel Testing System

A complete CFR Engines Inc. cetane fuel testing system includes three main elements, each designed to seamlessly integrate and deliver trusted results. With the F5 engine unit, XCP™ Technology, and a CFR® exhaust surge tank, each critical parameter of a successful cetane test is controlled. Whether working with a complete unit, an upgrade/conversion kit, or a genuine CFR service part, you can trust that the product has been designed, manufactured, and fully tested to work in an integrated solution for your operation. Confidence in the CFR system to do its job, allows users to focus less on making the system work and focus more on what else they need to do.

Data Integrity with XCP Technology

With the XCP Digital Control Panel, critical information for each rating is automatically captured and presented in a ready-to-use Excel-based report, minimizing manual data recording and calculating errors. XCP‘s standard report provides handwheel positions, fuel flow rate micrometer settings, environmental data (temperatures and pressures), and ignition advance and delay values. The XCP is also capable of being integrated into a Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS). Automatic capture and processing of test data gives the accountability needed to defend ratings without challenge.

Reliability of Proven Design

Since 1929, thousands of users have relied on the proven service of CFR Engines Inc. products. This reliability has been consistently maintained through a long series of well-designed system upgrades and product enhancements. CFR systems and components, such as the robust engine crankcase and cylinder/head, are built to deliver unsurpassed operating life. With basic maintenance and upkeep, a user can expect CFR products to consistently withstand the demands of today’s fuel testing environment with a true engine-based Cetane Number.

Precision through Modern Instrument Control

The CFR F5 Cetane Rating Unit with XCP Technology uses digital instrumentation to record and process critical aspects of system operation and performance. On-board handwheel position recording, automatic cetane number calculation, and multi-pass data recording are some of the many advantages of CFR’s digital instrument control system. More accurate measurements controlled by and intuitive interface lead to better overall precision.

Cost Savings with One System Flexibility

With standard product offerings, a CFR F5 Cetane Rating Unit provides the user unmatched flexibility and cost savings. With push button control and machine guided testing prompts, Users can easily conduct the test procedure of ASTM Method D613. Cost savings are realized in greater utilization of resources, quicker tests, and reduced operator training.

Other Important Features

XCP integrated safety monitoring systems and shut down protections for: power loss, low oil pressure, overheating, and electrical overload
Fuel flow safety shut-off solenoid prevents uncontrolled engine over-speed by stopping fuel delivery if electrical power is lost
Simple design of the thermal siphon, ebullient, recirculating type cooling condenser maintains constant cylinder jacket water temperature for stable operation
XCP Technology is intuitive and user-friendly, and operators require less training to achieve proficiency
Environmentally friendly resistance temperature detectors (RTDs) for management of critical temperature variables
Electronic maintenance log of vital maintenance information that is documented for future reference

Synchronous/reluctance motor provides power for starting and absorbs engine output to maintain constant speed
Easy-to-use touch-screen HMI panel for unit/test operation
Integrated digital cetane meter and temperature control reduce maintenance and servicing of specialized instrumentation
On-screen green lights indicate when “Injection Advance” and “Ignition Delay” stability is achieved, eliminating manual averaging and improving operator consistency
Built-in diagnostic feature provides a way to troubleshoot the unit when maintenance is needed
On-screen operations and maintenance manuals for easy access

March 11, 2019April 12, 2024

Octane Rating

CFR Engines Inc. Octane Rating Unit

Combination Research & Motor Method

Model: F1/F2

The CFR® F1/F2 Octane Rating Unit is the globally accepted standard for determining and certifying the anti-knock characteristics of motor fuels – whether gasoline, fuel constituents, or alternative fuels. Since the release of the first CFR octane rating engines in 1929, CFR has been at the forefront of establishing test methods for rating fuels. Working hand-in-hand with the automotive and petroleum industries, we continue to enhance the CFR product line to help fuel producers and engine manufacturers develop products that perform together more effectively.

The CFR F1/F2 octane rating engines are specified equipment for testing fuels according to:

ASTM D2699: Standard Test Method for Research Octane Number of Spark-Ignition Engine Fuel
ASTM D2700: Standard Test Method for Motor Octane Number of Spark-Ignition Engine Fuel
IP 236: Determination of Knock Characteristics of Motor and Aviation Fuels – Motor Method
IP 237: Determination of Knock Characteristics of Motor Fuel – Research Method

Click here for F1/F2 Brochure

Confidence in a Fully integrated Fuel Testing System

A complete CFR Engines Inc. octane fuel testing system includes four main elements, each designed to seamlessly integrate and deliver trusted results. With the Engine Air Control System, the F1/F2 octane rating engine, XCP™ Technology, and a CFR® exhaust surge tank; each critical parameter of a successful octane test is controlled. Whether working with a complete unit, an upgrade/conversion kit, or a genuine CFR service part; the product has been designed, manufactured, and fully tested by CFR to work as an integrated solution for your operation. Confidence in the CFR octane rating system to do its job, allows users to focus less on making the system work and focus more on what else they need to do.

Data Integrity with XCP Technology

With the XCP Digital Control Panel, critical information for each rating is automatically captured and presented in a ready-to-use Excel-based report, minimizing manual data recording and calculating errors. The standard report of XCP includes KI values, Octane Numbers, environmental data (temperatures, pressures, barometer, and EACS humidity), and KI vs fuel level curves. The XCP is also capable of being integrated into a Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS). Automatic capture and processing of test data gives the accountability needed to defend ratings without challenge.

Reliability of Proven Design

Since 1929, thousands of users have relied on the proven service of CFR Engines Inc. products. This reliability has been consistently maintained through a long series of well-designed system upgrades and product enhancements. CFR octane and cetane testing systems and components, such as the robust engine crankcase and cylinder/head, are built to deliver unsurpassed operating life. With basic maintenance and upkeep, a user can expect CFR octane rating engines to consistently withstand the demands of today’s fuel testing environment with a true engine-based Octane Number.

Precision through Modern Instrument Control

The CFR F1/F2 Octane Rating Unit with XCP Technology uses digital instrumentation to record and process critical aspects of system operation and performance. On-board barometric pressure adjustments, increased automation, broad octane meter range, no adjustments for “spread”, and even control of engine intake air are some of the many advantages of the CFR fully integrated instrument system. More accurate measurements controlled by and intuitive interface lead to better overall precision.

Cost Savings with One System Flexibility

With standard product offerings, a CFR F1/F2 Octane Rating System provides the user unmatched flexibility and cost savings. With a few simple component changes and push button control, users can easily switch between any of the four test procedures in ASTM Methods D2699 or D2700. Cost savings are realized in greater utilization of resources, quicker test changes, reduced operator training, and improved repeatability with a single system.

Other Important Features

XCP integrated safety monitoring system and shutdown protections for: power loss, low oil pressure, overheating, and electrical overload
Easy-to-use touch-screen HMI panel for unit operation and octane rating tests
Built-in prompts guide the operator through the test procedures for all of the ASTM methods; improving consistency between operators
Simple design of the thermal siphon, ebullient, recirculating type cooling condenser maintains constant cylinder jacket water temperature for stable operation
XCP Technology intuitive and user-friendly, and operators require less training to achieve proficiency in octane and cetane testing
Digital knock meter displays actual knock intensity value, eliminating the need for visual interpretation of an analog meter by the operator
Electronic maintenance log of vital maintenance information that is documented for future reference

Non-contact laser sensor accurately measures cylinder height and displays results on-screen, providing more accurate test results
Synchronous/reluctance motor provides power for starting and absorbs engine output to maintain constant speed
Electronic on-board barometer automatically corrects cylinder height for barometric pressure
Environmentally friendly resistance temperature devices (RTDs) for management of critical temperature variables
Built-in diagnostic feature provides a way to troubleshoot the octane rating unit when maintenance is needed
On-screen operations and maintenance manuals for easy access