AVGAS 82UL is an unleaded aviation gasoline engineered for low-compression, spark-ignition piston engines that do not require the detonation resistance of leaded aviation fuels. It offers a cleaner, environmentally responsible alternative while maintaining the reliability, safety, and performance consistency demanded by aviation operations.
By eliminating tetraethyl lead (TEL), AVGAS 82UL significantly reduces exhaust toxicity, engine deposits, and maintenance requirements. It is widely used in light general aviation aircraft, training fleets, ultralight aircraft, and light sport aircraft (LSA), particularly in lead-restricted regions.
Refining & Manufacturing Process
Straight-Run & Selected Light Fractions: Produced primarily from straight-run gasoline and naphtha streams with stable combustion characteristics.
Hydrotreating & Purification: Removes sulfur, nitrogen, aromatics, and trace metals to improve oxidation stability.
Volatility Control: Vapor pressure is optimized for aviation altitudes to prevent vapor lock and ensure reliable cold starts.
Final Filtration & Polishing: Multi-stage filtration eliminates free water and particulates to protect carburetors and fuel systems.
Key Characteristics
Unleaded Composition
Contains no tetraethyl lead, resulting in cleaner exhaust emissions, reduced spark plug fouling, and lower engine oil contamination.
Octane Rating (~82 MON)
Suitable for low-compression aircraft engines certified for 80/87 or 82UL fuels. Not intended for high-compression or turbocharged engines.
Excellent Volatility & Combustion Control
Ensures quick engine starts, smooth power delivery, and reliable throttle response throughout climb and descent.
Clean-Burning & Engine-Friendly
Minimizes combustion chamber deposits, valve sticking, and spark plug fouling, extending engine life.
Typical Physical & Chemical Properties
| Property | Typical Value | Operational Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel Type | Aviation Gasoline | Piston-engine use |
| Octane Rating (MON) | ~82 | Knock resistance |
| Lead Content | Nil | Eco-friendly |
| Density @ 15°C | ~0.72 kg/L | Fuel weight accuracy |
| Distillation Range | ~30°C – 170°C | Volatility control |
| Vapor Pressure | Aviation-controlled | Vapor-lock prevention |
| Sulfur Content | Extremely low | Clean combustion |
| Aromatic Content | Low | Material compatibility |
| Color | Clear / Uncolored | Identification |
| Net Heat of Combustion | ~43 MJ/kg | Energy efficiency |
Storage, Handling & Safety
Stored in dedicated unleaded avgas tanks that are clean, dry, water-free, and clearly labeled.
Highly flammable — grounding and bonding are mandatory during fueling.
Must never be mixed with automotive gasoline, leaded avgas grades, or jet fuels.
Applications
Primary Applications: Light sport aircraft (LSA), ultralight and microlight aircraft, training fleets, and older low-compression piston engines certified for 80/87 or 82UL fuels.
Secondary Applications: Experimental aircraft and aviation research platforms.
Environmental & Operational Advantages
Zero lead emissions
Reduced environmental contamination around airports
Lower engine maintenance costs
Improved occupational safety for fuel handlers
Supports global initiatives to phase out leaded aviation fuels
Standards & Specifications
ASTM D7547 – Specification for Unleaded Aviation Gasoline
ASTM D910 (applicable clauses)
National aviation authority approvals (FAA / EASA – engine dependent)
AVGAS 82UL vs Other Aviation Gasolines
| Parameter | AVGAS 82UL | AVGAS 100LL | AVGAS 100 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lead Content | None | Low | High |
| Octane Rating | ~82 | 100 | 100 |
| Environmental Impact | Very Low | Moderate | High |
| Engine Compatibility | Low-compression | Broad | Limited |
| Maintenance Needs | Low | Medium | Higher |
Key Advantages
Environmentally responsible unleaded aviation fuel
Cleaner engines and longer component life
Reduced operational and maintenance costs
Safer handling and reduced toxicity
Ideal for modern light aviation fleets