Uses Of Jet Fuel

Jet fuel is a highly combustible energy source developed by science to provide what's necessary to handle the power of larger jet turbine engines. When put to use in other areas, jet fuel must be used with great care because it can quickly lead to an out-of-control fire. Some states and cities, such as New York City, ban the use of kerosene in certain heating capacities for this reason, according to the New York City Fire Department.

Turbine Engines

Jet fuel is used to power the turbine and piston engines that keep jets and other aircraft in the sky and flying safely. Jet fuel has the necessary octane level to power these large, powerful engines that conventional gasoline fuel lacks. This is because jet fuel has a high flashpoint, which makes it unlikely that fuel fumes will ignite in an open flame. As a result, engine misfires are greatly reduced for jet engines, according to the website for the U.S. Centennial of Flight Commission. As you could imagine, an engine misfire at 30,000 feet could be quite deadly for all involved.

Heaters and Cookers

Grade A-1 jet fuel is a kerosene grade fuel. Kerosene has been used as a heat source for portable stoves, grills and space heaters throughout the ages in America and in the modern world it is still found in underdeveloped countries. The fuel is cheaper than most other fuel sources, costing around $3 per gallon, according to the New York State Environmental Research and Development Department. These values fluctuate daily from 5 to 12 cents.

Lighting

As jet fuel is essentially pure kerosene, the compound is also used as a lighting source of lamps and lanterns. The vapors of kerosene, when mixed with air, can be quite explosive, requiring lamps and lanterns to remain closed. Many campers and backpackers use kerosene lamps when traveling at night or exploring caves. Some societies, like the Amish, still use kerosene lamps as nighttime light sources in lieu of electricity.