A computerised system to control and manage aviation fuel has been developed by Contrec for the Royal Australian Air Force. "Fuel trucks no longer have to be at the aircraft's side - new computer controlled fuel hydrants are safer and more productive," said a spokesman for Contrec. "Starting with an aerial graphic of the fuel farm, operators work down to such fine detail that they can monitor individual pumps or valves easily. Security is paramount."

Features of the system include alarms to automatically detect water in the tanks or loss through leakage or misuse, touch keys to limit access and computerised compensation for irregularly shaped tanks and erratic temperatures to provide pinpoint accuracy, according to Contrec. More information on the company and product can be found at www.contrec.com.au.