Ameer Randolph
Diesel fuel can go bad for several reasons, including contamination, temperature fluctuations, and microbial growth. Without additives, diesel fuel can go bad in as little as 30 days, but even with proper storage and maintenance practices, diesel fuel only has an average shelf life of six to twelve months. Modern refining processes have also left today's distillate more unstable and susceptible to contamination, with studies showing that diesel fuel #2 begins to degrade within 28 days of storage. To prolong the life of diesel fuel, it is recommended to store it in a clean, cool, and dry place, regularly check for and remove any pooled water, and use fuel treatments with demulsifying properties to separate water from the fuel.
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What You'll Learn
Contamination from water, debris, and microbes
Diesel fuel contamination can occur due to various factors, including water ingress, debris accumulation, and microbial growth. Let's explore each of these in detail:
Water Contamination
Water can enter diesel fuel systems through multiple avenues, including condensation, rainwater penetration, or absorption from the air. Modern biodiesel, being hygroscopic, is particularly susceptible to attracting moisture. As fuel temperatures drop, its ability to retain dissolved water decreases, leading to the release of free or suspended water. This water accumulation can cause significant issues, especially in newer diesel engines with common rail injector systems, as even a small amount of water can result in blown injectors.
Debris Contamination
Debris accumulation in diesel fuel can occur during transit, as the fuel moves through different pumps. Additionally, as fuel levels drop, ambient air carrying potential contaminants can be drawn into the tank through the tank vent, introducing foreign particles. Wear and tear of the fuel system can also release debris, compromising the fuel's integrity. Modern diesel pump standards have become stricter, demanding significantly lower contamination levels, emphasizing the criticality of mitigating debris contamination.
Microbial Contamination
The presence of water in diesel fuel creates favourable conditions for microbial growth, leading to what is commonly known as the "diesel bug." Bacteria and fungi can proliferate at the interface between oil and water or on the tank walls, depending on their oxygen requirements. Species such as Clostridium, Desulfotomaculum, Pseudomonas, and Aspergillus are among those that can thrive in these conditions. These microbes produce acids that degrade fuel quality and corrode tanks. They also form biomass that clogs filters and accelerates corrosion, requiring costly remediation using biocides.
To address water contamination, various approaches have been developed, including the use of demulsifiers that cause water to separate from the fuel and settle at the bottom of the tank, where it can be removed mechanically. Additionally, absorbing technologies have been created to seamlessly bind water into the fuel, preventing it from dropping out. However, with the transition to ultra-low sulfur diesel fuel (ULSD), the issue of fuel contamination has become more pronounced. ULSD fuels attract more water and are less resistant to microbes, increasing the likelihood of microbial growth and the associated issues.
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Fluctuating temperatures
The temperature is not the only factor that affects the degradation of diesel fuel. The fuel itself is also a factor. Modern refining processes leave today's distillate more unstable and susceptible to contamination. The higher the temperature, the more unstable the fuel becomes, and the faster the degradation process occurs.
Oxidation is another factor that contributes to diesel fuel degradation. Diesel fuel starts to oxidize as soon as it leaves the refinery, and this process is accelerated by exposure to air. Oxidation causes the formation of harmful deposits that degrade the quality of the fuel. Water is a major issue in diesel fuel as it can promote microbial growth and cause damage to fuel injectors and other system components.
Additionally, the presence of biofilm, a thick sludge-like mass that can grow at the diesel-water interface, can also affect the quality of diesel fuel. Biofilm can reduce the effectiveness of biocides and encourage the re-infection of microbial growth after fuel treatment. Therefore, it is important to regularly check the tank for pooled water, especially after rain, and to maintain the structural integrity of the tank.
To prolong the life of diesel fuel, it is recommended to store it in a clean, cool, and dry place. Fuel additives, such as biocides or stabilizers, can also help to extend the shelf life by fighting microbial growth and oxidation. However, these additives may lose their effectiveness over time, and proper care must be taken to clean the tank and maintain fuel quality.
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Fuel additives
Diesel fuel can remain stable for six to twelve months on average, but it can last longer under optimal conditions. The key to delaying oxidation is keeping the tank cool, ideally around 20°F, but no higher than 85°F.
Diesel fuel additives can help to improve fuel economy, reduce emissions output, and prevent fuel from degrading and becoming unusable. They can also help to address specific issues, such as microbial growth, icing, and fuel gelling. For example, anti-gel additives can prevent diesel fuel from transforming into a waxy, glue-like gel in extreme cold conditions, which can restrict fuel flow and cause severe damage.
There are a variety of additives available that can clean and lubricate injectors, lines, and other key components in a diesel engine's fuel system. Some additives are designated as "upper cylinder lubricants with injector cleaners and fuel treatments," and because they are solvent-free, they can treat both diesel and gasoline. These additives can raise the fuel's cetane rating while also reducing the level of contaminants.
It is important to note that additives are designed to work with specific quantities of fuel, and over-treating a fuel system with too much additive can damage fuel injectors and the injection pump. Additionally, it is recommended to consult the owner's manual for any special precautions related to using additives, as using a non-approved additive could void the fuel system or engine warranty.
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Oxidation
Diesel fuel is a carbon-based petrochemical, and the oxidation process begins as soon as the fuel leaves the refinery. The fuel contains unstable molecules called "precursors" that are susceptible to reacting with other molecules. Over time, these precursors initiate chain reactions that lead to the formation of gums, varnish, and sludge within the fuel. This results in the fuel becoming darkened, stratified, and unable to burn properly, emitting black smoke and potentially failing to start an engine.
The oxidation of diesel fuel can be mitigated by using fuel additives, such as biocides or stabilizers. These additives combat microbial growth and oxidation, helping to extend the shelf life of the fuel. However, their effectiveness diminishes over time, and proper care must be taken to maintain fuel quality.
Without the use of additives, diesel fuel can go bad within 30 days due to the oxidation process. This results in the formation of deposits that can damage fuel injectors, fuel lines, and other system components, negatively impacting fuel economy and performance. Therefore, it is crucial to monitor and maintain diesel fuel storage systems to prevent oxidation and ensure the fuel remains in good condition.
To summarize, oxidation is a significant factor in the degradation of diesel fuel. By understanding the oxidation process and implementing proper storage and maintenance practices, such as using fuel additives and maintaining cool temperatures, the shelf life of diesel fuel can be extended, ensuring its quality and performance.
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Gelling in cold weather
Gelling is a common issue with diesel fuel in cold weather. It occurs when the temperature drops, causing the wax in diesel fuel to crystallize and harden. This crystallization can clog fuel lines and filters, preventing the flow of fuel to the engine and resulting in reduced performance or a complete engine shutdown. The temperature at which wax begins to crystallize is known as the "cloud point", and it typically occurs around 32°F to 40°F. However, gelling can happen at higher temperatures, such as 20°F, depending on the source and quality of the fuel.
To prevent gelling, it is recommended to use high-quality cold-weather diesel additives or anti-gelling treatments. These additives can lower the pour point and gel point, improving engine performance at lower temperatures. One such product is Hot Shot's Secret Diesel Winter Anti-Gel, which can be added to fuel before reaching the cloud point. It is essential to follow the directions on the product bottle.
If your diesel fuel has already gelled, it is crucial to act promptly. Start by examining and replacing the fuel filter, as the gel may have spread to other components. Check the fuel tank and drain water separators. For a quick solution, you can use a de-gel product like Hot Shot's Secret Diesel Winter Rescue, which is designed to re-liquefy gelled fuel and de-ice frozen fuel filters. However, it is important to differentiate between de-gel and anti-gel products, as the latter is ineffective on already-gelled diesel.
In summary, gelling in cold weather is a significant issue for diesel fuel, and it can cause operational issues for vehicles. Preventative measures, such as using anti-gelling additives, are recommended to avoid the hassle and costs associated with dealing with gelled diesel fuel.
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Frequently asked questions
Diesel fuel lasts between six to twelve months on average when stored properly. However, it can last longer, up to one or two years, under the best conditions.
Diesel fuel goes bad due to oxidation, contamination, temperature fluctuations, and microbial growth. Oxidation occurs when diesel fuel is exposed to air, forming harmful deposits that degrade the fuel quality. Contamination can happen if diesel fuel comes into contact with water, particulate matter, rust, or other foreign debris. Temperature extremes can also affect the fuel, with high temperatures causing evaporation and low temperatures leading to paraffin wax crystallization. Additionally, the absence of higher sulfur levels in modern diesel fuels allows microbes to grow and break down the fuel.
There are several signs that indicate diesel fuel has gone bad. These include the formation of gums, varnish, and sludge, as well as a dark and stratified appearance. The fuel may also emit black smoke when burned and might not even start an engine.
To prevent diesel fuel from going bad, it is essential to store it properly. This includes keeping the fuel in a clean, cool, and dry place, as well as regularly checking and maintaining the tank to remove any water and debris. Using fuel additives, such as biocides or stabilizers, can also help fight microbial growth and oxidation, prolonging the shelf life of the diesel fuel.
