Courtesy Photo | Army Reserve Pvt. Derek Taylor, a petroleum lab specialist with the 308th...... read more read more
JOINT BASE MCGUIRE-DIX-LAKEHURST, N.J. - Before fuel can be used to help ignite the fires that keep aircraft, ground vehicles, and generators running, petroleum lab specialists first approve the product for Quartermaster Liquid Logistics Exercise (QLLEX) a part of Combat Support Training Exercise (CSTX) Global Lightning at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst. Army Reserve petroleum lab specialists with the 308th Quartermaster Detachment from Scottsburg, Indiana are in a lab ensuring that the fuel that keeps the Army going is up to standard.
Working out of a Petroleum Quality Analysis System - Enhanced (PQASE), laboratory that contains all the fuel testing and data analysis equipment needed, petroleum lab specialists test the quality and guarantee all fuel that the Army uses during CSTX Global Lightning 2015 is suitable for use in Army equipment. Although assisted by the PQASE, the petroleum lab specialists must never accept complacency.
“To a certain degree it can be like riding a bike, however it is also very specific and particular. You have to be familiar with each test in order to be more fluent and productive, and accomplish multiple tests at one given time,” said, Army Reserve Pvt. Derek Taylor, a petroleum lab specialist with the 308th Quartermaster Detachment.
The purpose of testing the fuel before use is not only to assure that its host will function at its full potential, but also to safeguard that it will function at all. Just as the body collapses without proper nutrients – a vehicle can break down if the fuel is polluted with contaminants.
“The military is not allowed to use any fuel unless it gets passed by a lab; they couldn’t use the fuel if we didn’t say they could use it.” Said, Spc. Kane Lewis, a petroleum lab specialist with the 308th Quartermaster Detachment.
If the quality of fuel is not up to the standard for its intended use, it can be downgraded to serve as a better fit somewhere else.
“If the fuel has been contaminated we can degrade it. For example, if Jet-A were to become contaminated but still suitable for use we might be able to put in additives and use it for other engines, such as Humvees.” Said, Taylor.
The 308th worked alongside the 380th Quartermaster Battalion, Headquarters Company, out of Evansville, Indiana, and participated in QLLEX last year as well. Working together and promoting the Army’s philosophy of “one team one fight” the 308th Quartermaster Detachment and 380th Quartermaster Battalion Soldiers have grasped the true meaning of comradery.
“While working with the 380th, they’ve mentored me a lot. We’ve worked with each other before and any time we’re around, we help each other out,” said Lewis.
With more experience and a chance to continue to practice in such a large exercise that deals with several thousands gallons of fuels soldiers from the 308th Quartermaster Detachment feel more confident about their job.
“After this exercise, with the help and instruction of the NCOs, being out here and becoming more familiar with the tests in general, and just doing the exercise, I feel more confident. I have definitely learned a lot just within the last two weeks,” said Taylor.
| Date Taken: | 06.16.2015 |
| Date Posted: | 06.21.2015 16:55 |
| Story ID: | 167574 |
| Location: | JOINT BASE MCGUIRE-DIX-LAKEHURST, NEW JERSEY, US |
| Web Views: | 238 |
| Downloads: | 3 |
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