RC Fuel: Volume vs. Weight – Why the Confusion?

RC fuel is a blend of methanol, nitromethane, and oil, but the way nitro content is measured varies. Some brands measure by volume, while others use weight, leading to confusion when comparing fuels.

1. Volume-Based Measurement (Common Outside Europe – IFMAR Standard)

Many brands, like PepeGroup’s Energy, measure nitromethane percentage by volume (e.g., 16% Nitro means 16% of the total liquid volume is nitromethane).
This method follows the IFMAR standard, which is widely used in global RC competitions.

RCRA (Radio Control Racing Australia) also follows IFMAR rules, meaning Australian racers use the volume-based measurement system.

The Xceed Nitromax 16% (part 103060) is the official IFMAR tool that verifies nitro content does not exceed 16% by volume.

2. Weight-Based Measurement (EFRA-Regulated in Europe)

Due to EU regulations (EU nº1148/2019), fuel in Europe must now contain a maximum of 16% nitromethane by weight instead of volume.

Since 1 liter of nitromethane is heavier than 1 liter of methanol, a "16% by weight" mix actually contains only about 12% nitro when measured by volume.

This type of fuel is called 16EU, and its compliance is checked using the Capricorn Nitromax 16EU tool.

In Europe, EFRA (European Federation of Radio Operated Model Automobiles) governs RC racing rules, ensuring that only 16EU fuel is allowed in EFRA-sanctioned events.

What This Means for RC Racers

• If you race in Europe (EFRA events), check if you need 16EU (weight-based fuel).
• If you race in Australia (RCRA events) or other IFMAR-sanctioned competitions, you are likely using volume-based fuel like Energy.
• Always verify using the correct Nitromax tool to avoid disqualification in competitions.

This explains why two fuels labeled "16%" can actually have different nitro content when compared side by side!