Ameer Randolph
Old diesel fuel can degrade over time, leading to contamination, oxidation, and reduced engine performance. If diesel is not stored correctly, it can develop a gummy, sludge-like texture, emit black smoke when burned, and give off a rotten smell. Using old diesel for generators and bulk tanks can lead to bad diesel conditions and cause machinery breakdown. To burn old diesel fuel safely, some recommend adding additives such as biocide and cetane improver, running the priming pumps, and then firing up the engines. Others suggest performing a fire test by burning a small amount of the old diesel to observe any abnormalities. If the old diesel burns similarly to fresh diesel, it may still be usable. However, it is important to take necessary precautions and dispose of old diesel properly to avoid environmental harm.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| How to identify if diesel has gone bad | Gummy, sludge-like texture, hard to start the generator, gives out black smoke, has a rotten smell |
| How long diesel lasts | 6-12 months if stored properly |
| Factors that affect the shelf life of diesel | Exposure to heat, air, and water |
| How to store diesel | Store in a cool, clean, and dry environment without contact with water |
| How to dispose of old diesel fuel | Burn it using a torch or an oil lamp, or take it to a gas station for recycling |
| How to prevent diesel from degrading | Use water absorbers, stabilizers, and biocides, and ensure the fuel tank is clean and dry |
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What You'll Learn
Burning old diesel fuel safely
Burning old diesel fuel can be done safely, but it is important to take the necessary precautions to ensure safety and avoid any potential hazards. Here are some detailed instructions and tips for burning old diesel fuel safely:
Firstly, it is important to assess the quality of the old diesel fuel. Check for any signs of spoilage, such as a rotten smell, black smoke, or a gel-like consistency. If the diesel fuel has taken on a yellow hue, it may still be usable, but it is important to test it further. Exposure to heat, air, and water can affect the shelf life of diesel, so it is important to store it in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area.
If the diesel fuel is still usable, you can burn it safely by following these steps:
- Set up a safe burning area: Choose an open outdoor space away from any flammable materials or structures. Ensure good ventilation to avoid inhaling harmful fumes.
- Prepare the diesel fuel: If the diesel fuel is sludgy or has formed a layer of sediment, carefully decant the clear top layer into a separate container for burning. You can use a clean funnel and filter to separate the usable diesel from the sludge.
- Use a suitable burning container: A metal fire pit, a barbecue grill, or a designated burning bin are all suitable options. Avoid using containers made of flammable materials.
- Add a small amount of diesel fuel to the container: Start with a small amount and gradually add more as needed. Do not overload the container with diesel fuel.
- Ignite the diesel fuel: Use a long-handled lighter or igniter to safely ignite the diesel fuel from a distance. Stand back and avoid leaning over the container.
- Control the burn: Do not leave the burning diesel unattended. Use a lid or a metal screen to control the flame and avoid sparks or excessive smoke. Have a fire extinguisher or a water source nearby in case of emergencies.
It is important to note that burning old diesel fuel may produce harmful fumes, so ensure adequate ventilation during the process. If you have a large quantity of old diesel fuel, consider adding a cetane improver, biocide, or similar additives to enhance its combustion. Additionally, mixing old diesel with fresh diesel can also improve its burning characteristics.
If you are uncomfortable with burning the diesel fuel yourself, you can dispose of it at a designated hazardous waste disposal facility or contact a professional waste management company for assistance.
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Using old diesel fuel for generators
Diesel fuel is an essential component of generators, especially for businesses that require dependable backup power. However, using old diesel fuel in generators can lead to several issues. The quality and storage conditions of diesel fuel significantly impact the performance of generators. Old diesel fuel can become contaminated with microbes, which can cause rapid filter clogging and even lead to the shutdown of the generator. Additionally, the microbes create an acidic environment that corrodes steel tank bottoms, resulting in costly and disruptive replacements.
To mitigate these problems, it is recommended to regularly monitor the age and quality of the diesel fuel in your generator. If the diesel fuel is more than six months old, it is generally considered degraded and should be replaced. Running the generator regularly can help prevent fuel degradation by keeping it moving through the system. Additionally, diesel fuel stabilizers and additives can be used to extend the fuel's shelf life and prevent the formation of sludge.
In some cases, old diesel fuel may still be usable. It is recommended to perform a simple test by burning a small amount of the old diesel fuel and observing any differences in flame colour, smoke colour, or crackling sounds compared to fresh fuel. If the old diesel burns similarly to fresh fuel, it may still be usable. However, it is important to use caution and have spare filters on hand when using old diesel fuel in generators.
To enhance the performance and longevity of your generator, it is advisable to clean and treat the diesel fuel at least once a year. Anti-aging additives, cleaning agents, biocides, and de-icing treatments can help maintain the reliability of your generator. Additionally, ensuring proper storage conditions, such as keeping the fuel in a cool, dry place, can prolong the fuel's lifespan.
While it may be tempting to refill your generator while it is running, this is not recommended. Filling a generator with diesel fuel while it is operational can create a safety hazard. Instead, turn off the generator and allow it to cool for 15 to 20 minutes before refueling. By following these guidelines and regularly maintaining your generator's diesel fuel, you can ensure optimal performance and avoid potential issues caused by old diesel fuel.
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Storing old diesel fuel
Container and Location
Use quality fuel containers that are well-constructed, sturdy, secure, and double-walled for added protection. Steel or HDPE (high-density polyethylene) containers are recommended. Store the containers in a cool, dry, and shaded area, such as a building, underground, or under a structure that shields them from extreme weather conditions and direct sunlight.
Temperature
Maintain the storage temperature between 32°F and 95°F. Ideally, keep it below 70°F to prolong the fuel's life. Higher temperatures accelerate degradation and condensation, affecting fuel quality.
Moisture Control
Minimize empty space in the containers to reduce moisture accumulation from condensation. Keep the containers full, and if using drums, fill them completely to prevent air from carrying bacteria and affecting temperature and moisture levels.
Additives and Treatments
Use biocides to prevent microbial growth, and fuel stabilizers to extend the fuel's life beyond 12 months. Treatments like Biobor JF can kill microbial contamination and preserve the fuel. Additionally, use multifunctional fuel additives to improve cetane, lubricity, and detergency while dispersing water.
Regular Inspections
Regularly inspect your fuel system and fuel quality during long-term storage. Address any issues promptly to maintain fuel quality and prevent damage to your equipment.
By following these guidelines, you can effectively store old diesel fuel and maintain its quality for an extended period.
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Disposing of old diesel fuel
Diesel fuel can be stored for six to 12 months without significant degradation if kept in a clean, dry, cool place. However, if exposed to high temperatures, moisture, or other contaminants, its shelf life will be significantly shorter.
If you have old diesel fuel that needs to be disposed of, there are several options:
- Contact your local disposal company or waste management service to see if they accept diesel fuel for disposal. Most city landfills accept household amounts of uncontaminated diesel fuel if delivered in a spill-proof container and labelled as hazardous trash, usually for a fee.
- Some auto repair shops accept hazardous fluids such as diesel fuel, so you can inquire at your local mechanic or garage.
- Deliver it to a fire station, as some fire departments use diesel fuel for training purposes.
- If you have a small amount of diesel fuel, you can take it to your local hazardous waste disposal centre or dump site.
- If the diesel fuel is still usable, you can mix it with fresh fuel and run it in your vehicle or machinery. However, it is important to note that using old diesel in modern vehicles with emission systems can cause problems such as clogging.
- If you have a large quantity of diesel fuel, you could consider filtering, mixing, and lab testing it for conformity with fuel standards before reusing it or giving it away.
It is important to handle and dispose of diesel fuel properly to avoid environmental and safety hazards. Do not pour diesel fuel down the drain or toilet, as it is harmful to the environment.
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Signs of old diesel fuel
Diesel fuel is susceptible to contamination and can start to degrade within 28 days of storage. On average, diesel fuel can be stored for 6 to 12 months, sometimes longer under optimal conditions. Here are some signs that diesel fuel has degraded or is contaminated:
Colour Change
Normal, undyed diesel fuel has an amber-green colour. If the fuel appears darker, it indicates that the fuel has degraded significantly. This happens when the heavier components of the fuel blend are no longer dissolved and float freely, contributing to a darker shade.
Clogged Filters, Black Smoke, and Lower RPMs
Excessively clogged filters, black smoke, and lower-than-normal RPMs at full throttle indicate that the combustion quality of the fuel has diminished. This issue is challenging to rectify, and prevention through the use of stabilizers, water removal, and biocides is more effective.
Airlock
Airlocks occur when air enters the fuel system, preventing diesel fuel from reaching the injectors. Symptoms of an airlock include difficulty starting the engine, reduced engine power, and, in severe cases, the inability to start the engine. Airlocks can result from running out of fuel, leaks in fuel lines, air bubbles, or improper filter changes.
Sludge and Particulates
Visual inspection of diesel fuel samples may reveal the presence of sludge, rust, or particulates. These contaminants can clog fuel injectors, especially in modern generators with smaller injectors.
Microbial Contamination
Microbial contamination, including the presence of microorganisms and water, can lead to fuel degradation and engine damage. This contamination can be prevented by using biocides and ensuring proper sealing of storage tanks to avoid condensation.
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Frequently asked questions
Old diesel fuel may have a gummy, sludge-like texture, a rotten smell, and may cause generators to emit black smoke as it does not burn properly.
Old diesel fuel can be disposed of by taking it to a gas station, which will have it picked up by a recycler.
To burn old diesel fuel, you can add some cetane improver and biocide and run the priming pumps for a few hours before firing up the engines.
Diesel fuel should be stored in a cool, clean, and dry environment without contact with water to prevent contamination and oxidation.
