Fuel Analysis

Fuel Analysis services by Verum Group New Zealand

Our testing range includes energy content, moisture and ash content, ash behaviour, ultimate analysis, and a range of other tests.

Biofuels

Are you looking at using renewable fuels? We can run tests on a wide range of biofuels. Testing is conducted using either New Zealand or international standard methods, in-house methods, or by creating new methods as required. We have a wide range of equipment and experience to draw on, allowing us to test routine and diagnostic samples. We also have a transitional facility, so international biomass can typically be sent directly to the lab without treatment.

We are members of the Bioenergy Association (BANZ) and can analyse and classify fuels to the BANZ guidelines.

Liquid Fuels

We are equipped to test waste oils looking at sulphur content, flashpoint, and energy content.

Coal

Is your boiler running on coal? We can test your samples and offer you expert advice.

Humic Acid testing

We can also determine humic acids (total humic acids and free humic acid) in brown coals and lignites.

Fuel Sample Submission:

Submitting a sample to our lab is easy. Simply use our Fuel Sample Submission form to get started.

Contact Us for More Information:

National Laboratory Manager Mike Young:
Email: m.young@verumgroup.co.nz

FAQ’s

Coal & Solid Fuel / Biomass Testing

  • Fuel quality and chemistry are tested by Verum Group. Properties such as moisture and ash content, calorific value (energy content), ash chemistry, particle size distribution. Other tests such as bulk density and elemental content (S, Cl, C, H, N and others) are also available.

  • Fuel testing helps operators understand how efficiently their boilers are running and whether the fuel may cause issues such as excess ash, slagging, corrosion, or emissions problems.

  • Coal has a high energy density which requires less storage space but generally produces more ash, sulphur, and carbon emissions. Biomass fuels often produce lower emissions and less ash, but larger volumes are usually required to produce the same energy, and fuel moisture can vary more increasing storage footprint and possible drying costs.

Oil & Liquid Fuel Testing

  • Testing may include calorific value (energy content), sulphur content, and flash point to assess fuel quality and suitability for combustion.

  • Fuel quality can vary significantly. Testing helps ensure the fuel will perform efficiently, meet regulatory requirements, and prevent damage or excessive wear and tear to machinery.

  • Verum can analyse waste oils, refined petroleum products, and some bio-oils. Highly volatile fuels such as petrol are generally not suitable for this testing method.

Plastics / Waste-derived Fuel Testing

  • Yes. Non-standard fuels such as plastic-derived fuels or mixed waste streams can be analysed for energy content, combustion properties, and chemical composition.

  • The most common concerns when considering non-standard fuel supplies are how will the ash perform in the boiler (slagging/fouling or corrosion issues) and what compounds will need to be controlled in the emissions and waste that effect disposal. Verum Group can help identify these potential problems before.

  • Non-standard fuels should be tested as much as possible by methods that allow direct comparison with standard fuels. Each fuel needs to be assessed on a case by case basis to determine the most appropriate approach.