what color is avgas?

Avgas, or aviation gasoline, is a specialized type of fuel used in piston-engine aircraft, such as small planes and helicopters. It is specifically formulated to meet the demanding requirements of aviation, providing high energy density and consistent performance at high altitudes and in extreme conditions.

One of the most distinctive features of avgas is its color. Depending on the type of avgas, it can be colored blue, green, or red. This color is not just for aesthetics; it serves an important purpose in aviation safety and logistics.

Avgas 100LL

The most common type of avgas used in small aircraft is 100LL (low lead), which is colored blue. This blue color is added to distinguish it from other types of fuel and to indicate that it meets the specification for use in aircraft with low lead requirements. Lead was traditionally added to gasoline to increase its octane rating and prevent engine knock, but it is now restricted in many parts of the world due to its harmful effects on the environment and human health. 100LL avgas contains a small amount of lead, but it is still considered "low lead" compared to earlier formulations.

Avgas 100/130

Another type of avgas is 100/130, which is colored green. This type of fuel has a higher lead content than 100LL, but it is still used in some older aircraft engines that require higher octane ratings. The green color is used to distinguish it from other types of fuel and to indicate that it has a higher lead content.

Avgas 115/145

A third type of avgas is 115/145, which is colored red. This fuel has an even higher lead content and is used in some high-performance piston aircraft engines that require a very high octane rating. The red color is used to distinguish it from other types of fuel and to indicate that it has a very high lead content.

Aside from their colors, all types of avgas share some common properties. They have a high energy density, which means that they can provide a lot of power for their weight. They also have a low freezing point, which is important for aircraft that operate in cold temperatures or at high altitudes. They are also formulated to resist vaporization at high altitudes, where the reduced air pressure can cause conventional gasoline to vaporize too quickly and cause engine problems.

In terms of logistics, the color of avgas plays an important role in preventing fuel mix-ups and ensuring that the correct fuel is used in each aircraft. Each type of avgas has a specific color code that is standardized across the industry, so pilots and fuel handlers can quickly identify the correct fuel for each aircraft. This is critical for aviation safety, as using the wrong type of fuel can cause engine problems, loss of power, or even accidents.

In conclusion, avgas is a specialized type of fuel that plays a critical role in aviation safety and performance. Its distinctive color serves an important purpose in identifying the correct fuel for each aircraft, and it is formulated to provide consistent performance at high altitudes and in extreme conditions. As the aviation industry continues to evolve and adopt new technologies, the demand for specialized fuels like avgas will continue to play an important role in ensuring safe and efficient flight operations.