Rapid fuel purity portable test system

Abstract

A portable purity testing system for fuel used in a vehicle includes a fluid conduit extending between a first end and a second end, a pressure and flow regulation system communicatively coupled to the first end and disposed downstream of the first end, and a gas analyzer communicatively coupled to the pressure and flow regulation system and disposed downstream of the pressure and flow regulation system.

Description

[0001] introduction

[0002] The information provided in this section is for the purpose of presenting the overall context of this disclosure. To the extent described in this section, the work of the currently named inventors and aspects of the description that might otherwise be deemed unqualified as prior art at the time of filing are neither expressly nor implicitly permitted as prior art against this disclosure.

[0003] This disclosure generally relates to a portable testing system for fuel used in vehicles.

[0004] A proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cell is a type of fuel cell that converts chemical energy from hydrogen into electrical energy through an electrochemical reaction. These fuel cells are highly efficient and can be used in a variety of applications, including transportation and stationary power generation.

[0005] Current fuel testing methods are typically limited to laboratory settings, which can be both time-consuming and impractical for real-time monitoring in operational environments. The shortcomings of existing systems and methods will be addressed through one or more aspects of this disclosure. Summary of the Invention

[0006] In one configuration, a portable purity testing system for fuel used in a vehicle is provided, and the system includes a fluid conduit extending between a first end and a second end; a pressure and flow regulation system communicatively coupled to the first end and disposed downstream of the first end; and a gas analyzer communicatively coupled to the pressure and flow regulation system and disposed downstream of the pressure and flow regulation system.

[0007] Portable purity testing systems may include one or more of the following optional aspects or steps. For example, a first valve may be communicatively coupled to a fluid conduit at a first end. A gas analyzer may be calibrated using a calibration cylinder communicatively coupled to the first valve.

[0008] According to at least one example, the second valve can be communicatively coupled to a fluid conduit at a second end. Both the first and second valves can be three-way valves, and the second valve can be communicatively coupled to an exhaust port.

[0009] According to at least one aspect, the fluid conduit can be communicatively grounded at its first end.

[0010] According to another approach, the pressure and flow regulation system may include a pressure regulator, a pressure reducing valve, and a pressure gauge. The pressure and flow regulation system may also include a needle valve.

[0011] According to at least one example, the portable purity testing system also includes a sample cylinder that is selectively coupled to a fluid conduit downstream of the gas analyzer and has an inlet valve and an outlet valve.

[0012] According to another example, the gas analyzer includes a data interface powered by a low-voltage power supply.

[0013] In one configuration, a method is provided for auditing a fuel source using a portable purity testing system, the method comprising: connecting a fluid conduit to a fuel source grounding point; setting a first valve to a desired inlet position; setting a second valve to a desired outlet position; connecting the portable purity testing system to a power source; connecting the fuel source to the portable purity testing system; adjusting a pressure and flow regulation system communicatively coupled to a gas analyzer of the portable purity testing system; supplying power to the portable purity testing system; initiating measurement of the fuel source; purging the portable purity testing system until the gas analyzer reaches steady-state conditions; and determining whether the fuel meets minimum purity requirements.

[0014] The method may include one or more of the following optional aspects or steps. For example, setting the first valve to the desired inlet position may further include adjusting the first three-way valve to receive fuel from either the fuel station or the fuel carrier. Setting the second valve to the desired outlet position may further include adjusting the second three-way valve to the exhaust flow path.

[0015] According to one aspect, adjusting the pressure and flow regulation system may further include adjusting the pressure regulator and needle valve.

[0016] On the other hand, determining whether the fuel meets the minimum purity requirements may also include evaluating the data interface that is communicatively coupled to the gas analyzer.

[0017] In another configuration, a method for collecting fuel samples using a portable purity testing system is provided, the method comprising: connecting a fluid conduit to a fuel source grounding point; setting a first valve to a desired inlet position; setting a second valve to a desired outlet position; connecting the portable purity testing system to a power source; connecting a fuel source to the portable purity testing system; connecting a sampling cylinder to the second valve; adjusting a pressure and flow regulation system communicatively coupled to a gas analyzer of the portable purity testing system; supplying power to the portable purity testing system; initiating a measurement of the fuel source; purging the portable purity testing system until the gas analyzer reaches steady-state conditions; and removing the sampling cylinder from the second valve.

[0018] The method may include one or more of the following optional aspects or steps. For example, setting the first valve to the desired inlet position may further include adjusting the first three-way valve to receive fuel from one of the fuel station and the fuel carrier. Setting the second valve to the desired outlet position may further include adjusting the second three-way valve to the sample collection path.

[0019] According to at least one aspect, connecting the sampling cylinder to the second valve further includes opening the inlet valve and the outlet valve of the sampling cylinder. Removing the sampling cylinder from the second valve may further include closing the inlet and outlet valves of the sampling cylinder.

[0020] This invention also includes the following technical solutions:

[0021] Option 1. A portable purity testing system for fuels used in vehicles, comprising:

[0022] A fluid conduit extending between a first end and a second end;

[0023] Pressure and flow regulation system, which is communicatively coupled to the first end and located downstream of the first end; and

[0024] The gas analyzer is communicatively coupled to the pressure and flow control system and is located downstream of the pressure and flow control system.

[0025] Option 2. The portable purity testing system according to Option 1, wherein the first valve is communicatively coupled to a fluid conduit at its first end.

[0026] Option 3. The portable purity testing system according to Option 2, wherein the gas analyzer is calibrated using a calibration cylinder communicatively coupled to the first valve.

[0027] Option 4. The portable purity testing system according to Option 2, wherein the second valve is communicatively coupled to the fluid conduit at the second end.

[0028] Option 5. The portable purity testing system according to Option 3, wherein both the first valve and the second valve are three-way valves, and the second valve is communicatively coupled to the exhaust port.

[0029] Option 6. The portable purity testing system according to Option 1, wherein the fluid conduit is communicatively grounded at the first end.

[0030] Option 7. The portable purity testing system according to Option 1, wherein the pressure and flow regulation system includes a pressure regulator, a pressure reducing valve, and a pressure gauge.

[0031] Option 8. The portable purity testing system according to Option 7, wherein the pressure and flow regulation system includes a needle valve.

[0032] Option 9. The portable purity testing system according to Option 1 further includes a sampling cylinder selectively coupled to a fluid conduit downstream of the gas analyzer and having an inlet valve and an outlet valve.

[0033] Option 10. The portable purity testing system according to Option 1, wherein the gas analyzer includes a data interface powered by a low-voltage power supply.

[0034] Option 11. A method for auditing fuel sources using a portable purity testing system, comprising:

[0035] Connect the fluid conduit to the fuel source grounding point;

[0036] Set the first valve to the desired inlet position;

[0037] Set the second valve to the desired outlet position;

[0038] Connect the portable purity testing system to a power source;

[0039] Connect the fuel source to a portable purity testing system;

[0040] Adjust the pressure and flow control system that is communicatively coupled to the gas analyzer of the portable purity testing system;

[0041] Power the portable purity testing system;

[0042] Initiate measurements of the fuel source;

[0043] Purify the portable purity testing system until the gas analyzer reaches steady-state conditions; and

[0044] Determine whether the fuel source meets the minimum purity requirements.

[0045] Option 12. The method according to Option 11, wherein setting the first valve to the desired inlet position further includes adjusting the first three-way valve to receive fuel from one of the fuel station and the fuel carrier.

[0046] Option 13. The method according to Option 12, wherein setting the second valve to the desired outlet position further includes adjusting the second three-way valve to the exhaust flow path.

[0047] Option 14. The method according to Option 11, wherein the pressure and flow regulation system further includes a pressure regulator and a needle valve.

[0048] Option 15. The method according to Option 11, wherein determining whether the fuel source meets the minimum purity requirement further includes evaluating the data interface communicatively coupled to the gas analyzer.

[0049] Option 16. A method for collecting fuel samples using a portable purity testing system, comprising:

[0050] Connect the fluid conduit to the fuel source grounding point;

[0051] Set the first valve to the desired inlet position;

[0052] Set the second valve to the desired outlet position;

[0053] Connect the portable purity testing system to a power source;

[0054] Connect the fuel source to a portable purity testing system;

[0055] Connect the sampling cylinder to the second valve;

[0056] Adjust the pressure and flow control system that is communicatively coupled to the gas analyzer of the portable purity testing system;

[0057] Power the portable purity testing system;

[0058] Initiate measurements of the fuel source;

[0059] Purify the portable purity testing system until the gas analyzer reaches steady-state conditions; and

[0060] Remove the sampling cylinder from the second valve.

[0061] Option 17. The method according to Option 16, wherein setting the first valve to the desired inlet position further includes adjusting the first three-way valve to receive fuel from one of the fuel station and the fuel carrier.

[0062] Option 18. The method according to Option 17, wherein setting the second valve to the desired outlet position further includes adjusting the second three-way valve to the sample collection path.

[0063] Option 19. The method according to Option 16, wherein connecting the sampling cylinder to the second valve further includes opening the inlet valve and the outlet valve of the sampling cylinder.

[0064] Option 20. The method according to Option 19, wherein removing the sampling cylinder from the second valve further includes closing the inlet valve and outlet valve of the sampling cylinder. Attached Figure Description

[0065] The accompanying drawings described herein are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure.

[0066] Figure 1 It is a side view of a vehicle based on the principles of this disclosure;

[0067] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of a portable testing system based on the principles of this disclosure;

[0068] Figure 3 It is used in accordance with the principles of this disclosure. Figure 2 A flowchart of the method for a portable testing system; and

[0069] Figure 4 It is used in accordance with the principles of this disclosure. Figure 2 A flowchart of a method for a portable testing system.

[0070] Throughout the accompanying figures, the corresponding reference numbers indicate the relevant parts. Detailed Implementation

[0071] The example configuration will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings. Example configurations are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and will fully communicate the scope of this disclosure to those skilled in the art. Specific details, such as examples of specific components, devices, and methods, are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of the configurations of this disclosure. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that specific details are not required, that the exemplary configurations may be embodied in many different forms, and that the specific details and exemplary configurations should not be construed as limiting the scope of this disclosure.

[0072] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular exemplary configurations only and is not intended to be restrictive. As used herein, the singular articles “a,” “an,” and “the” may also be intended to include plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. The terms “comprising,” “including,” “containing,” and “having” are inclusive and therefore specify the presence of features, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof. The method steps, processes, and operations described herein should not be construed as requiring them to be performed in the particular order discussed or shown, unless specifically identified as such. Alternative or alternative steps may be employed.

[0073] When an element or layer is described as "on another element or layer," "attached to another element or layer," "connected to another element or layer," "attached to another element or layer," or "coupled to another element or layer," it may be directly on, attached to, connected to, attached to, or coupled to other elements or layers, or there may be intermediate elements or layers present. Conversely, when an element is described as "directly on another element or layer," "directly attached to another element or layer," "directly connected to another element or layer," "directly attached to another element or layer," or "directly coupled to another element or layer," there may be no intermediate elements or layers present. Other terms used to describe relationships between elements should be interpreted in a similar manner (e.g., "between" versus "directly between," "adjacent" versus "directly adjacent," etc.). As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the related listed items.

[0074] The terms “first,” “second,” “third,” etc., may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers, and / or sections. These elements, components, regions, layers, and / or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms may only be used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer, or section from another. Terms such as “first,” “second,” and other numerical terms do not imply order or sequence unless clearly indicated by the context. Therefore, the first element, component, region, layer, or section discussed below may be referred to as the second element, component, region, layer, or section without departing from the teachings of the example configuration.

[0075] In this application, including the following definitions, the term "module" may be replaced by the term "circuit". The term "module" may refer to an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC); a digital, analog, or mixed-signal analog / digital discrete circuit; a digital, analog, or mixed-signal analog / digital integrated circuit; a combinational logic circuit; a field-programmable gate array (FPGA); a processor (shared, dedicated, or grouped) that executes code; a memory (shared, dedicated, or grouped) that stores the code executed by the processor; other suitable hardware components that provide the aforementioned functions; or a combination of some or all of the foregoing (e.g., in a system-on-a-chip), which is part of or includes the foregoing.

[0076] The term "code" as used above can include software, firmware, and / or microcode, and can refer to programs, routines, functions, classes, and / or objects. The term "shared processor" includes a single processor that executes some or all of the code from multiple modules. The term "group processor" includes a processor combined with additional processors to execute some or all of the code from one or more modules. The term "shared memory" includes a single memory that stores some or all of the code from multiple modules. The term "group memory" includes memory combined with additional memory to store some or all of the code from one or more modules. The term "memory" can be a subset of the term "computer-readable medium." The term "computer-readable medium" does not include transient electrical and electromagnetic signals propagating through the medium, and therefore can be considered tangible and non-transient memory. Non-limiting examples of non-transient memory include tangible computer-readable media, including non-volatile memory, magnetic storage devices, and optical storage devices.

[0077] The apparatus and methods described in this application can be implemented, in part or in whole, by one or more computer programs executed by one or more processors. The computer program includes processor-executable instructions stored on at least one non-transitory tangible computer-readable medium. The computer program may also include and / or depend on stored data.

[0078] A software application (i.e., a software resource) can refer to computer software that enables a computing device to perform tasks. In some examples, a software application may be referred to as an "application," "app," or "program." Example applications include, but are not limited to, system diagnostic applications, system management applications, system maintenance applications, word processing applications, spreadsheet applications, messaging applications, media streaming applications, social networking applications, and game applications.

[0079] Non-transitory memory can be a physical device used to store programs (e.g., instruction sequences) or data (e.g., program state information) on a temporary or permanent basis for use by a computing device. Non-transitory memory can be volatile and / or non-volatile addressable semiconductor memory. Examples of non-volatile memory include, but are not limited to, flash memory and read-only memory (ROM) / programmable read-only memory (PROM) / erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM) / electronically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM) (e.g., commonly used in firmware, such as bootloaders). Examples of volatile memory include, but are not limited to, random access memory (RAM), dynamic random access memory (DRAM), static random access memory (SRAM), phase-change memory (PCM), and magnetic disks or magnetic tapes.

[0080] These computer programs (also referred to as programs, software, software applications, or code) include machine instructions for a programmable processor and may be implemented in high-level procedural and / or object-oriented programming languages ​​and / or in assembly / machine language. As used herein, the terms “machine-readable medium” and “computer-readable medium” refer to any computer program product, non-transitory computer-readable medium, apparatus, and / or device (e.g., disk, optical disk, memory, programmable logic device (PLD)) used to provide machine instructions and / or data to a programmable processor, including machine-readable media that receive machine instructions as machine-readable signals. The term “machine-readable signal” refers to any signal used to provide machine instructions and / or data to a programmable processor.

[0081] Various implementations of the systems and techniques described herein can be implemented in digital electronic and / or optical circuits, integrated circuits, specially designed ASICs (Application-Specific Integrated Circuits), computer hardware, firmware, software, and / or combinations thereof. These different implementations can include implementations in one or more computer programs executable and / or interpretable on a programmable system, which includes at least one programmable processor, at least one input device, and at least one output device. The programmable processor may be dedicated or general-purpose and is coupled to receive data and instructions from and transmit data and instructions to the storage system.

[0082] The processes and logic flows described in this specification can be executed by one or more programmable processors, also known as data processing hardware, which execute one or more computer programs to perform functions by manipulating input data and generating output. The processes and logic flows can also be executed by special-purpose logic circuitry, such as FPGAs (Field-Programmable Gate Arrays) or ASICs (Application-Specific Integrated Circuits). As an example, processors suitable for executing computer programs include both general-purpose and special-purpose microprocessors, as well as any type of digital computer and any one or more processors. Typically, the processor receives instructions and data from read-only memory or random access memory, or both. The basic elements of a computer are a processor for executing instructions and one or more memory devices for storing instructions and data. Typically, a computer will also include one or more mass storage devices (e.g., magnetic disks, magneto-optical disks, or optical disks) for storing data or operatively coupled to receive data from or transfer data to, or both. However, a computer does not need to have such devices. Computer-readable media suitable for storing computer program instructions and data include all forms of non-volatile memory, media, and memory devices, including, for example, semiconductor memory devices such as EPROM, EEPROM, and flash memory devices; magnetic disks such as internal hard disks or removable disks; magneto-optical disks; and CD-ROMs and DVD-ROMs. Processors and memory may be supplemented or incorporated therein by dedicated logic circuitry.

[0083] To provide interaction with the user, one or more aspects of this disclosure can be implemented on a computer having a display device for displaying information to the user, such as a CRT (cathode ray tube), LCD (liquid crystal display) monitor, or touchscreen, and optional keyboard and pointing device, such as a mouse or trackball, through which the user provides input to the computer. Other types of devices can also be used to provide interaction with the user; for example, feedback provided to the user can be any form of sensory feedback, such as visual, auditory, or tactile feedback; and input from the user can be received in any form, including sound, speech, or tactile input. Furthermore, the computer can interact with the user by sending documents to and receiving documents from the device used by the user; for example, by sending web pages to a web browser on the user's client device in response to a request received from a web browser.

[0084] Based on the principles of this disclosure, a portable purity testing system is provided, which can be configured for in-situ hydrogen (H2) testing at fuel stations and fuel carriers (e.g., bottles and trailers in the field). Gas samples are typically tested in a laboratory, but this procedure can be time-consuming and expensive. It is desirable to identify low-quality fuels at the source (e.g., fuel stations, bottles, trailers, etc.) in the field to avoid catastrophic damage to fuel cell systems. The portable purity testing system can be configured to allow samples to be obtained for further testing.

[0085] refer to Figure 1 An illustrative example of a vehicle 10 is provided based on the principles of this disclosure. Vehicle 10 is a hydrogen fuel cell vehicle (FCV) that uses hydrogen as its primary fuel source. Generally, hydrogen can be converted into electricity through a chemical reaction within or on a fuel cell stack 12 arranged in or on vehicle 10. Other vehicles (e.g., trains, airplanes, ships, etc.) and applications (e.g., stationary generators, etc.) may also benefit from the principles of this disclosure.

[0086] Reference Figure 2 An operating environment 100 is provided, which includes several fuel sources 102 and a portable purity testing system 200 (hereinafter referred to as the "test system"). Fuel sources 102 may include fuel stations 104 and fuel carriers, such as fuel trailers 106 and portable fuel tanks 108. While the test system 200 is discussed with respect to fuel sources 102, other fuel sources not listed herein may also be used. For example, fuel stored in the fuel tank of vehicle 10 may also be tested using the test system 200.

[0087] Continue to refer to Figure 2The test system 200 includes a fluid conduit 202 extending between a first end 204 and a second end 206 disposed downstream of the first end 204. The fluid conduit 202 may be communicatively grounded at 208 to provide a path for any static electricity that may have accumulated in the test system 200, for example, during transport. In this illustrative example, the fluid conduit 202 is communicatively grounded near or at the first end 204 for electrostatic discharge. A first valve 210 may be communicatively coupled to the fluid conduit 202 at the first end 204 and may be configured to quickly connect to and disconnect from one or more fuel sources 102. For example, a three-way valve may be used, allowing the test system 200 to be coupled to and receive gas from a fuel station 104, a fuel trailer 106, and / or a fuel tank 108. Optionally, the first valve 210 may be configured to receive gas from a calibration cylinder 109 containing a gas sample with known purity. A second valve 212 may be communicatively coupled to the fluid conduit 202 at the second end 206. The second valve 212 may be a three-way valve or another valve including an exhaust port 214 and an accessory that can receive the sampling cylinder 216. As will be discussed below, the exhaust port 214 provides a path for purging any residual air and / or other gases that may have been introduced into the test system 200 from a previous connection. Furthermore, the exhaust port 214 allows continuous sample flow from one end of the test system 200 to the other. In one configuration, the sampling cylinder 216 includes an inlet valve 216a and an outlet valve 216b. The inlet and outlet valves 216a, 216b are desirable so that the sampling cylinder 216 can be purged before collecting fuel samples.

[0088] Test system 200 includes a flow and pressure regulation system 218 (hereinafter referred to as the "regulation system"), which can be adjusted to establish acceptable pressures and / or flow rates for a gas analyzer 220 disposed downstream of regulation system 218. According to one aspect, regulation system 218 can be adjusted manually by a user and / or via an automated system (not shown) communicatively coupled to regulation system 218. See reference... Figure 2The regulating system 218 includes a pressure regulator 222 configured to maintain a constant output pressure regardless of changes in input pressure or flow rate. The pressure regulator 222 may be desirable for protecting and ensuring consistent operation of the gas analyzer 220. For example, the fuel source 102 may have a supply pressure of up to 900 bar, so the pressure regulator 222 may be expected to gradually reduce (i.e., lower) the pressure to an acceptable level for the gas analyzer 220. Optionally, a pressure reducing valve 224 may be arranged downstream of the pressure regulator 222 to release excess pressure before it reaches the gas analyzer 220. For example, if the pressure regulator 222 fails, the pressure reducing valve 224 may be desirable to protect the gas analyzer 220 from uncontrolled pressure. A pressure gauge 226 may be arranged downstream of the pressure regulator 222 and / or the pressure reducing valve 224, allowing, for example, a user to determine the pressure entering the gas analyzer 220. The regulation system 218 may also include a needle valve 228, which can be manually or otherwise adjusted to establish an acceptable flow rate for, for example, a gas analyzer 220.

[0089] Gas analyzer 220 can be configured to provide real-time hydrogen purity readings (i.e., measurement results, values, etc.) and / or reports indicating whether the hydrogen quality is acceptable. Gas analyzer 220 may be configured with a data interface 230, which an operator can rely on to control the gas analyzer 220 and evaluate results immediately during and / or after testing. According to one aspect, gas analyzer 220 can be configured to report hydrogen purity accuracy at + / - 0.01%, with accredited laboratory calibration traceability. As described above, to maintain this level of accuracy, gas analyzer 220 can be periodically calibrated using calibration cylinder 109. Gas analyzer 220 can be powered by a low-voltage power source, such as a direct current (DC) battery power supply 231. Furthermore, in at least one configuration, gas analyzer 220 may include a power switch 232 controlling the flow of power between battery 231 and gas analyzer 220.

[0090] The test system 200 can be installed on a vehicle (e.g., a maintenance vehicle) or packaged in a case that can be easily transported throughout the operating environment 100.

[0091] refer to Figure 3 A method 300 is provided for auditing one of the fuel sources 102 in the operating environment 100 using a test system 200.

[0092] At 302, the test system 200 (e.g., fluid conduit 202) is grounded to the fuel source grounding point at 208.

[0093] At 304, the first valve 210 is set to the desired inlet option. Depending on the type of fuel source 102 being tested, the user can manipulate the first valve 210 to the desired path so that fuel will flow into the test system 200 from one of the fuel station 104, fuel trailer 106, or fuel tank 108 upon connection.

[0094] At 306, a second valve 212 is configured to be connected to the exhaust path of the exhaust port 214. By doing so, the fluid conduit 202 is open between the first end 204 and the second end 206.

[0095] At point 308, a power supply is connected to test system 200. In this illustrative example, battery 231 is communicatively coupled to test system 200.

[0096] At 310, one of the fuel sources 102 is coupled to the first valve 210. In other words, one of the fuel station 104, fuel trailer 106, or fuel tank 108 is communicatively coupled to the test system 200, and fuel begins to flow from the first end 204 to the second end 206 through the fluid conduit 202.

[0097] At 312, the regulating system can be maintained manually or automatically. In either case, pressure regulator 222 and needle valve 228 are adjusted to achieve acceptable pressure and flow rate for gas analyzer 220.

[0098] At position 314, the gas analyzer 220 is powered on. In practice, the operator can turn the power switch 232 to the "on" position.

[0099] At point 316, the test (i.e., purity measurement) is initiated, and the test system 200 is purified until the gas analyzer 220 has reached a steady state.

[0100] At point 318, the user or data interface 230 can determine whether the purity of the hydrogen meets the minimum purity requirement.

[0101] At 320, if the fuel meets the minimum purity requirements, then the fuel is used.

[0102] At point 322, if the fuel does not meet the minimum purity requirement, the fuel is rejected.

[0103] At point 324, method 300 ends.

[0104] refer to Figure 4 A method 400 is provided for collecting samples from one of the fuel sources 102 in the operating environment 100 using a test system 200.

[0105] At 402, the test system 200 (e.g., fluid conduit 202) is grounded to the fuel source grounding point at 208.

[0106] At 404, the first valve 210 is set to the desired inlet option. Depending on the type of fuel source 102 being tested, the user can manipulate the first valve 210 to the desired path so that fuel will flow into the test system 200 from one of the fuel station 104, fuel trailer 106, or fuel tank 108 when connected.

[0107] At 406, a second valve 212 is set to the sample collection path, which will allow fuel to flow through the second end 206 of the fluid conduit 202 and out of the second valve 212.

[0108] At 408, sampling cylinder 216 is communicatively coupled to second valve 212, allowing gas to flow from fluid conduit 202 into sampling cylinder 216. Inlet valve 216a and outlet valve 216b can be opened, allowing fuel to enter through inlet valve 216a, travel through sampling cylinder 216, and exit through outlet valve 216b.

[0109] At 410, a power supply is connected to test system 200. In this illustrative example, battery 231 is communicatively coupled to test system 200.

[0110] At 412, one of the fuel sources 102 is coupled to the first valve 210. In other words, one of the fuel station 104, fuel trailer 106, or fuel tank 108 is communicatively coupled to the test system 200, and fuel begins to flow from the first end 204 toward the second end 206 through the fluid conduit 202.

[0111] At 414, the regulating system 218 can be maintained manually or automatically. In either case, the pressure regulator 222 and needle valve 228 are adjusted to achieve acceptable pressure and flow rate for the gas analyzer 220.

[0112] At position 416, the gas analyzer 220 is powered on, and the test (i.e., purity measurement) is initiated. In practice, the operator can turn the power switch 232 to the "on" position and engage the data interface 230 to initiate the test of the fuel passing through the test system 200.

[0113] At point 418, the test system 200 is purified until the gas analyzer 220 reaches steady-state conditions. In other words, the test system 200 is purified until a consistent purity measurement has been achieved.

[0114] At 420, the fuel should continue to pass through the gas analyzer 220 and the sampling cylinder 216 to ensure that the sampling cylinder 216 is properly purified.

[0115] At 422, the inlet valve 216a and outlet valve 216b of sampling cylinder 216 are closed to capture a fuel sample. For example, sampling cylinder 216 can be transported to an off-site laboratory for further testing.

[0116] At position 424, method 400 ends.

[0117] Many embodiments have been described. However, it will be understood that various modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure. Therefore, other embodiments are within the scope of the following claims.

[0118] The foregoing description has been provided for illustrative purposes. It is not intended to be exhaustive or limiting of this disclosure. Individual elements or features of a particular configuration are generally not limited to that particular configuration, but where applicable, they are interchangeable and can be used in chosen configurations, even if not specifically shown or described. This can also be varied in many ways. Such variations should not be considered a departure from this disclosure, and all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of this disclosure.

Claims

1. A portable purity testing system for fuel used in vehicles, comprising: A fluid conduit extending between a first end and a second end; A pressure and flow regulation system, which is communicatively coupled to the first end and located downstream of the first end; and The gas analyzer is communicatively coupled to the pressure and flow control system and is located downstream of the pressure and flow control system.

2. The portable purity testing system according to claim 1, wherein, The first valve is communicatively coupled to the fluid conduit at its first end.

3. The portable purity testing system according to claim 2, wherein, The gas analyzer is calibrated using a calibration cylinder that is communicatively coupled to the first valve.

4. The portable purity testing system according to claim 2, wherein the second valve is communicatively coupled to a fluid conduit at its second end.

5. The portable purity testing system according to claim 3, wherein, Both the first valve and the second valve are three-way valves, and the second valve is communicatively coupled to the exhaust port.

6. The portable purity testing system according to claim 1, wherein the fluid conduit is communicatively grounded at the first end.

7. The portable purity testing system according to claim 1, wherein, The pressure and flow regulation system includes a pressure regulator, a pressure reducing valve, and a pressure gauge.

8. The portable purity testing system according to claim 7, wherein the pressure and flow regulation system includes a needle valve.

9. The portable purity testing system of claim 1 further includes a sampling cylinder selectively coupled to a fluid conduit downstream of the gas analyzer and having an inlet valve and an outlet valve.

10. The portable purity testing system according to claim 1, wherein, The gas analyzer includes a data interface powered by a low-voltage power supply.

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