Kerosene

Comprehensive Introduction to Refinery Kerosene — Technical Analysis, Applications, and Specifications

Kerosene is one of the most important middle-distillate fractions derived from crude oil. Due to its unique physical and chemical properties, it is widely used across energy, heating, transportation, and even chemical industries. This product plays a particularly critical role in energy supply within developing countries and regions lacking natural gas infrastructure.

The product discussed in this article is kerosene produced by Persian Gulf Star Oil Company, located in Bandar Abbas. This refinery is recognized as the largest gas condensate refinery in the Middle East, and the quality of its products is evaluated according to international standards.

In the following sections, a comprehensive technical analysis of specifications, applications, advantages, quality parameters, and expert insights related to this product is presented.

Chemical Nature and Definition of Kerosene

Kerosene is a mixture of paraffinic, naphthenic hydrocarbons and a small fraction of aromatics, typically within the carbon number range of C9 to C16. This petroleum fraction distills approximately between 150°C and 275°C, positioning it between gasoline and diesel fuel.

Key characteristics that distinguish kerosene from other fuels include:

✅ Higher flash point compared to gasoline
✅ Lower volatility and improved storage safety
✅ Relatively clean combustion with reduced soot formation
✅ Compatibility with simple combustion equipment

These properties have ensured that kerosene remains a globally important fuel.

Technical Specifications of Persian Gulf Star Refinery Kerosene

Based on the provided datasheet, the key parameters of this product are as follows:

Technical Analysis Table

Expert Analysis of Quality Parameters

Density

A density of 783.8 kg/m³ indicates a well-refined petroleum fraction and falls within the range of high-quality kerosene standards.

Proper density provides:

✅ More stable combustion
✅ Optimal volumetric energy content
✅ Improved atomization in combustion systems

Flash Point

A flash point of 49.5°C represents a critical safety indicator.

Higher flash points result in:

✅ Reduced fire hazards
✅ Safer transportation and handling
✅ Better storage capability

This value confirms that the product belongs to a safe kerosene category.

Smoke Point

The smoke point of 28.9 mm is a key indicator of combustion quality.

Higher smoke point values signify:

✅ Cleaner combustion
✅ Lower soot production
✅ Suitability for heating and lighting applications

This level demonstrates excellent fuel performance.

Mercaptan Sulfur

A value below 1 ppm is a highly desirable feature.

Low sulfur benefits include:

✅ Reduced equipment corrosion
✅ Lower environmental impact
✅ Less odor
✅ Improved combustion efficiency

This sulfur level reflects advanced refining processes and superior quality.

Distillation Profile

Recovery percentages at various temperatures indicate a uniform fraction distribution.

This contributes to:

✅ Controlled evaporation
✅ Stable combustion
✅ Improved burner performance

Applications of Kerosene Across Industries

Kerosene is one of the most versatile petroleum products available.

Energy and Fuel Applications

✅ Fuel for kerosene heaters
✅ Household cooking stoves
✅ Industrial heating fuel
✅ Jet engines (certain grades)
✅ Generators

In many regions worldwide, kerosene remains a primary household fuel.

Aviation Industry Applications

Certain kerosene grades serve as feedstock for aviation turbine fuel (Jet Fuel / ATF).

Important properties for aviation use include:

✅ Low freezing point
✅ Stable combustion
✅ Controlled density
✅ Low sulfur content

Chemical Industry Applications

Kerosene is also widely used as an industrial solvent.

Applications include:

✅ Pesticide formulation
✅ Paint and resin industries
✅ Industrial parts cleaning
✅ Chemical extraction processes

Agricultural Applications

Kerosene has multiple uses in agriculture:

✅ Spraying operations
✅ Equipment disinfection
✅ Pest control

Metal and Mechanical Industries

Kerosene is commonly used in metalworking processes:

✅ Machining cooling operations
✅ Metal parts cleaning
✅ Rust prevention

Military and Emergency Uses

Due to its long storage life and stability, kerosene is valuable in emergency and military scenarios.

Advantages of Persian Gulf Star Refinery Kerosene

Based on the technical analysis, the key advantages include:

✅ Extremely low sulfur content
✅ Clean combustion performance
✅ High safety level
✅ Consistent quality
✅ Export suitability
✅ Excellent performance in combustion equipment

These characteristics enhance global market competitiveness.

Comparison with Other Fuels

Kerosene vs. Gasoline

✅ Safer handling
✅ Lower volatility
✅ Easier storage

Kerosene vs. Diesel

✅ Cleaner combustion
✅ Less soot formation
✅ Better for small equipment

International Standards Related to Kerosene

Major standards include:

✅ ASTM D3699
✅ ASTM D1655
✅ DEF STAN
✅ IP Standards

The product parameters fall within international quality ranges.

Storage and Transportation Considerations

To maintain kerosene quality, the following should be observed:

✅ Storage in standard metal tanks
✅ Prevention of water contamination
✅ Protection from direct sunlight
✅ Proper ventilation

Safety Considerations

Although kerosene is relatively safe, precautions are necessary:

✅ Avoid inhalation of vapors
✅ Keep away from ignition sources
✅ Use appropriate safety equipment

Global Kerosene Market

The global kerosene market is influenced by:

✅ Crude oil prices
✅ Jet fuel demand
✅ Weather conditions
✅ Energy policies

Asia and Africa represent the largest consumption regions.

Iranian Kerosene Exports

Iran is one of the significant kerosene producers in the region.

Export advantages include:

✅ Access to low-cost feedstock
✅ High refining capacity
✅ Strategic geographic location
✅ Competitive pricing

Expert Conclusion

Based on the provided technical parameters, kerosene produced by Persian Gulf Star Refinery falls within the high-quality product category.

Features such as:

✅ Very low sulfur
✅ Suitable smoke point
✅ Standard density
✅ High safety
✅ Uniform distillation profile

demonstrate that this product is a reliable option for industrial, domestic, and export applications.