Aircraft
Diamond Aircraft To Begin SAF Testing in Diesel Engines
Austrian aircraft manufacturer Diamond Aircraft along with sister company Austro Engine will soon begin testing engines on sustainable aviation fuel.
Various models of Diamond Aircraft flying in formation above cloud layer
With most of its piston-engined aircraft powered by jet fuel, Diamond Aircraft will soon begin testing using sustainable aviation fuel. (Photo: Diamond Aircraft)

Austrian airframer Diamond Aircraft and sister company Austro Engine expect to begin testing of Austro aircraft diesel engines with sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) next month. According to the companies, their diesel-powered piston engines will require a full range of testing from the component level all the way up to flight verification to validate and approve SAF.

As they await the first deliveries of SAF, the companies have designed and installed an engine test bench that can measure a variety of parameters, including cylinder pressure and emission components of unburnt hydrocarbons, nitrogen oxides, carbon dioxide, and carbon monoxide. The test rig will also allow for quick changes between different fuels without having to endure high circulation losses.