IFRF has opened its online European Test Facilities database to the public. This fully searchable resource already lists and describes the combustion and biofuels test rigs of some30 European industrial and research organizations.   A search facility enables potential rig users to identify a match between specific test needs and the test facilities available.  Users may also browse the database to view the test facilities of the participants by organisation and contact the rig owners.

Creation of the database was begun by IFRF in 2007 when a core group of combustion laboratories committed themselves to sharing and publishing information on their combustion test rig facilities and expertise for mutual benefit. The original group, coordinated by IFRF was known as the European Flame Research Initiative (EFRI).

Through IFRF’s involvement in the EU funded BRISK project, the database has been significantly enlarged in recent months to include information regarding the test rigs of the BRISK partner organizations – who are involved in investigating all the stages for thermochemical conversion of raw biomass to useable biofuels.

All the facilities listed in the European Facilities database are available for use by third parties.  Special advantages available specifically to Europe based users of the BRISK facilities were described in a previous issue of MNM.  IFRF Members wishing to add their organisation and one or more of their test rigs to the database are invited to contact IFRF’s Neil Fricker in the first instance. Test rigs from other Europe based rig owners wishing to be a part of the database can also be accommodated.

Searches of the database are open to all, whether IFRF Members or not.

IFRF is committed to promoting co-operation and connection within the global combustion and energy community.  As such, IFRF’s long term objective is to expand the resource beyond its European origins and to create an integrated network of combustion facilities worldwide.

Rig owners who wish to discuss participation should contact Neil Fricker