Katerina Swanson
When it comes to fuel lines, it's important to ensure that the correct type is used for the specific fuel. While regular fuel lines can generally be used for diesel, there are some key differences to be aware of. Rubber fuel lines, for example, are not suitable for diesel as they can be damaged and corroded by it over time. This is due to the thicker consistency of diesel fuel, which evaporates more slowly than gasoline. Instead, diesel fuel lines are often made with black iron pipes, with steel or cast iron valves and fittings.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Fuel line material | Rubber, nitrile, PTFE, steel, nylon, galvanized, copper, zinc, PVC, black iron pipes, cloth braided high-pressure rubber hose |
| Fuel type | Diesel, gasoline, ethanol, biodiesel, high-ethanol fuel, kerosene |
| Vehicle type | Cars, trucks, lawn mowers, tractors, boats, marine vehicles, generators |
| Pressure | Up to 300 psi for transmission lines, 50 psi for fuel lines, 2000 psi for injector lines, 225 psi for fuel injection hose |
| Temperature | -40°F to 212°F for Gates Barricade carburetion hose |
| Hose markings | "Diesel", "USCG" for marine applications, "Marine Fuel Hose" |
| Hose types | Submersible, standard, Type A1 (for gasoline), Type B1 (for diesel), Gates Barricade carburetion hose, Gates Barricade fuel injection hose |
| Hose compatibility | Regular gas hose, Gates gas hose, Gates Barricade hose, NAPA Cloth braided high-pressure rubber hose |
| Hose recommendations | Use diesel-rated hose, avoid rubber for diesel, avoid galvanized and copper conduit, avoid copper or zinc in diesel fuel |
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What You'll Learn
Rubber hoses may be unsuitable for diesel fuel
Rubber hoses are unsuitable for diesel fuel due to their incompatibility with the fuel's chemical composition. Diesel fuel has a higher energy density and is more viscous than gasoline, causing it to evaporate slowly. This slow evaporation can lead to the rubber hose being gradually stripped and corroded by the diesel fuel. Over time, the diesel can cause perforations in the hose, leading to leaks and potential fuel contamination.
The American Boat and Yacht Council (ABYC) recommend using Type B1 fuel hose for diesel-based applications. This type of hose is specifically designed to withstand the corrosive effects of diesel fuel. Regular rubber hoses, commonly used for gasoline, do not possess this resistance and can be damaged over time.
Additionally, it is important to consider the pressure and temperature requirements of the fuel system. Diesel engines often operate at higher pressures and temperatures than gasoline engines. Regular rubber fuel hoses may not be able to withstand these more demanding conditions, leading to potential failure and safety hazards.
Furthermore, diesel fuel contains certain additives and impurities that can react with the rubber. For example, zinc is known to dissolve in diesel fuel, forming a solution that can contaminate the fuel supply. This contamination can eventually reach the engine's fuel pump and injectors, causing performance issues and potential damage.
To ensure the safe and efficient operation of a diesel engine, it is crucial to use fuel lines and hoses specifically designed for diesel fuel. Regular fuel lines may not possess the necessary resistance to diesel's corrosive nature, leading to system failures and costly repairs. By choosing diesel-rated fuel lines, users can maintain the integrity of their fuel systems and avoid the issues associated with incompatible materials.
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PVC pipes are suitable for diesel fuel
The suitability of a fuel line for diesel engines depends on the material it is made of. Rubber hoses, for instance, are not suitable for diesel as they can be damaged and stripped by diesel fuel, causing them to corrode over time. Similarly, copper and zinc should also be avoided as diesel fuel dissolves zinc, forming a solution that contaminates the fuel supply.
PVC pipes, on the other hand, are suitable for diesel fuel storage and transportation. PVC is not corroded by diesel fuel, and thus, it is not adversely affected by long-term exposure to diesel. This makes it a good option for diesel fuel lines.
However, it is important to note that diesel fuel lines require different materials than regular fuel lines, and they need to be able to handle higher pressures. Therefore, when choosing a fuel line for a diesel engine, it is recommended to use a hose specifically marked "diesel" or Type B1 fuel hose, which is recommended by the American Boat & Yacht Council (ABYC) for diesel-based applications.
Additionally, if you have a vehicle manufactured before 1984, a small engine like a lawn tractor, or any other kind of engine with a carburetor, you can use a standard fuel hose. For a submersed fuel pump, however, a submersible in-tank fuel line is necessary to prevent the fuel from breaking down the hose.
In conclusion, while PVC pipes are suitable for diesel fuel storage and transportation due to their resistance to corrosion and adverse effects, it is always recommended to follow the manufacturer's guidelines and choose a fuel line specifically designed for diesel engines to ensure safety and compliance with regulations.
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Black iron pipes are recommended for diesel fuel systems
When it comes to diesel fuel systems, black iron pipes are often recommended. Diesel fuel lines can indeed be made with black iron pipes, and these are preferred over other materials for several reasons.
Firstly, black iron pipes are recommended because diesel fuel is thicker and more corrosive than gasoline, and it evaporates more slowly. This means that rubber hoses, which are commonly used for gasoline, are not suitable for diesel as they will be gradually stripped and corroded by the fuel. Black iron pipes, on the other hand, are more resistant to corrosion and provide a durable option for diesel fuel systems.
Secondly, black iron pipes are recommended to avoid issues caused by certain metals reacting with diesel fuel. Copper, zinc, and brass should be avoided in diesel fuel systems. Copper can promote fuel degradation and may produce mercaptide gels, while zinc can react with water or organic acids to form gels that clog filters. Zinc is also unstable in the presence of sulfur, which is commonly found in diesel fuel, and can lead to the formation of sludge that damages the engine's internal components. Black iron pipes do not have these issues and are therefore a safer choice.
In addition to black iron pipes, steel or cast iron valves and fittings are also recommended for diesel fuel systems. These materials offer similar advantages in terms of durability and resistance to corrosion and chemical reactions.
It is worth noting that while black iron pipes are recommended, there are alternative options available. For example, PVC pipes can be used for diesel fuel storage and transportation without adverse effects, although they should be securely grounded. Additionally, some sources suggest that stainless steel tubing is a good option, although finding compatible valves can be challenging.
When selecting a fuel line for a diesel engine, it is crucial to consult the vehicle's owner's manual and follow the manufacturer's recommendations. It is also important to consider the specific application, as marine and government engine installations may have different requirements, including specific cleaning procedures for piping systems.
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The Gates Barricade hose is a suitable alternative
The Barricade Hose is made with five-layer GreenShield™ barrier technology, which provides high heat and corrosive liquid resistance. This technology virtually eliminates fuel vapor loss, making it safe and fuel-efficient. It also has a high-temperature range tolerance of -40°C to +125°C (-40°F to +257°F) and a max working pressure of 225 psi.
The hose is made from a durable and fuel-resistant synthetic oil and is reinforced with a spiral textile for added durability, structure, and flexibility. It is also available in different diameters, including 5/16" and 1/2", to accommodate different engine sizes.
The Gates Corporation offers a range of products within the Barricade™ Fuel Injection Hose line, including the 4219BF and 4219BG models. The 4219BF model utilizes GreenShield® Barrier Technology to provide enhanced environmental protection and better fuel efficiency. The 4219BG model is a submersible fuel line hose capable of handling multiple fuel types, including gasoline, alcohol-extended gasoline, and diesel fuel.
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Fuel lines for diesel engines must be able to withstand high pressure
The diameter and length of the line must be considered to deliver fuel at the correct pressure and rate. Longer fuel lines result in more friction, which leads to a higher pressure drop. Therefore, fuel lines that feed into pressure gauges experience minimal pressure loss as the flow of fuel is almost zero. Fuel lines with medium weight are designed to provide medium to light fuel pressure between the fuel tank and the injection pump.
For the fuel return system, the maximum pressure drop is typically two to four times higher, and the return flow is less than the total fuel flow. As a result, fuel lines can be smaller on the return side than the supply side. Low-pressure fuel lines, or return lines, return excess fuel from the pump or filter to the fuel tank and can be made of materials such as Teflon with a stainless steel overbraid, rubber, silicone, or AQP elastomer.
It is important to ensure that the fuel lines are clamped properly to prevent fatigue, which can lead to wear, cracking, or breakage. The bending and fitting of these lines to an engine require a lot of nuance, and the manufacturing process can become a true art form.
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Frequently asked questions
Regular fuel lines can be used for diesel, but diesel fuel lines are recommended. Diesel fuel is thicker than gasoline and evaporates more slowly, which can cause rubber hoses to be stripped gradually, leading to corrosion.
PTFE (Polytetrafluoroethylene) is the best material for diesel fuel lines. It is a plastic material that is impervious to fuel's degenerative effects and has a vapor barrier that prevents fuel vapors from leaking.
Regular fuel lines made of rubber can be damaged by diesel fuel, which can cause them to corrode and fail over time. This can result in leaks and affect the performance of the engine.
