Sylvie Willis
Water in diesel fuel can cause significant damage to fuel quality and engine performance. Water can enter a diesel tank for natural or man-made reasons, such as condensation, human error, ingress during refuelling, or water leakage. Water is the essential element that microbes need to establish themselves and multiply, and it can also accelerate the degradation of diesel, form a habitat for Diesel Bug, and reduce lubricity in the fuel. To remove water from a diesel fuel filter, you can use a diesel filter water separator, which contains a hydrophobic filter and a tap to drain water. Another option is to use a fuel circulator, such as the CTS fuel recirculation unit, which breaks down sludge and removes impurities through a two-stage water and particle filtration process. Additionally, anti-emulsifying, bactericidal, and anti-algae additives can be used to remove and separate water from diesel fuel.
How to remove water from a diesel fuel filter
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Why remove water from diesel? | Water is the single greatest contaminant in diesel and can cause several problems, including rust, degradation of diesel, and providing a habitat for Diesel Bug and other microbes. |
| How does water enter diesel? | Water enters diesel through condensation, human error, ingress during refuelling, water leakage, and exposure to weather events such as rain or snow. |
| Preventing water entry | Keep the tank covered, avoid exposure to weather, ensure proper ventilation, and choose a reputable diesel supplier with good storage practices. |
| Removing water from the fuel tank | Use a diesel filter water separator, a fuel circulator, or a fuel tank water absorber like Aquafighter. Regularly replace filters and consider anti-emulsifying, bactericidal, and anti-algae additives. |
| Removing water from the diesel fuel filter | Release the vent valve at the top of the filter housing and drain the water. If there is no valve, loosen the uppermost fuel pipe and drain the water into a jar. |
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What You'll Learn
Use a diesel filter water separator
Water in your diesel engine can contaminate your fuel system. Condensation in your diesel engine can get into your fuel system, and unlike a petrol engine, diesel engines don't have vapour pressure to displace air. As the fuel tank heats up, the air expands and is forced out. When the tank cools down, humid air is sucked back in and water condenses on the cooler tank walls. Water in your fuel can cause several problems, including rust and part failure.
A diesel filter water separator is a solution to this problem. It contains a filter with hydrophobic characteristics, so water cannot pass through, and a tap to drain water. Water is denser than fuel, so it collects at the bottom of the filter, making it easy to remove.
To drain water from your diesel filter water separator, release the vent valve positioned at the top of the filter housing. If there isn't a valve, loosen the uppermost fuel pipe from the filter housing. Hold a jar under the drain plug or tap and loosen the plug or tap. Let the filter drain until clean diesel fuel flows out, then close the plug or tap and the vent valve.
Some cars are equipped with a Fuel in Water (FIW) sensor to indicate when there is a substantial amount of water in the fuel filter. It is recommended that you check the drain bowl weekly and replace the filter element every 300-400 hours of use. It is also recommended that you replace the entire filter assembly annually, typically at the beginning of the boating season.
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Drain sedimentors and agglomerators
When storing fuel in any environment, a water build-up is likely to occur. This is especially true in the leisure marine industry, where low fuel turnover rates and the realities of cruising almost guarantee it. Luckily, most vessels have a 'last line of defence' in the form of sedimentors, agglomerators, cav-filters, and pre-filters, which remove water from the fuel before it reaches the engine.
Sedimentors and agglomerators are needed to prevent the fine filter from becoming clogged. They must be regularly maintained by draining and checking the water content. The sedimentor has a steel mesh, cleanable filter element, while the agglomerator has no filter element and is designed to deal with water only.
To drain the sediment/water from the filter, use the drain valve mounted on the thermostat crossover. Let it run into a jar until no more water or sediment flows out. You will have to make the lift pump run during this time. Using a clear container makes it easy to see when the water has been drained and pure fuel is coming out.
If your T-valve is open with the engine running and nothing is coming out, and the engine dies after 30 seconds, your lift pump may be bad and need replacing. Check the function of the valve for proper operation and no leaks, and also check the hose from the Fuel Filter Manager to the valve for leaks or dry rot.
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Use a fuel circulator
Water in diesel fuel can lead to several issues, including reduced engine performance, fuel inefficiency, and engine damage. To prevent these problems, it is essential to remove water from the diesel fuel filter regularly. One effective method to achieve this is by using a fuel circulator. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to use a fuel circulator to remove water from your diesel fuel filter:
Step 1: Understand the Issue
Before using a fuel circulator, it is important to understand how water enters your diesel fuel system. Water can infiltrate your diesel fuel through several routes, including condensation, leaks, and contaminated fuel sources. Condensation forms inside the tank due to fluctuating temperatures, especially if the tank is not consistently full. Leaks can occur through poorly sealed or damaged tank lids, allowing rainwater and moisture to enter. Additionally, the fuel itself may contain water if it is not properly handled and stored by suppliers. Identifying these sources will help you target preventive measures effectively.
Step 2: Choose the Right Fuel Circulator
Select a fuel circulator that is suitable for your diesel engine and fuel system. There are various options available in the market, such as the FH234 Series Industrial Pro diesel fuel filtration system from Cummins Filtration. This system features a clear cover that allows for visual inspection of fuel oxidation and flow, helping maintenance managers make informed decisions. Other options include fuel-water separators offered by Stanadyne's Fluid Management Technology Division, which are designed specifically for diesel engines with different horsepower ranges.
Step 3: Install and Operate the Fuel Circulator
Follow the manufacturer's instructions for installing the fuel circulator in your diesel fuel system. Ensure that it is securely connected and compatible with your engine. Once installed, operate the fuel circulator according to the recommended guidelines. This may involve specific procedures or settings designed to effectively remove water from the diesel fuel.
Step 4: Regularly Maintain and Inspect the Fuel Circulator
Fuel circulators require regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance. Refer to the manufacturer's maintenance schedule and guidelines to clean, inspect, and replace any components as necessary. Regular maintenance helps prevent unexpected failures and ensures the continued removal of water from your diesel fuel. Additionally, visually inspect the fuel circulator for any signs of damage or wear, especially after draining water to ensure that no residual water remains in the system.
Step 5: Combine with Other Water Removal Techniques
For maximum effectiveness, combine the use of a fuel circulator with other water removal techniques. This may include implementing water separators, using fuel additives designed to demulsify water from diesel, and maintaining proper storage conditions. By employing multiple strategies, you can better protect your diesel engine and fuel system from the harmful effects of water contamination.
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Add anti-emulsifying, bactericidal, and anti-algae additives
Water in a diesel fuel tank can lead to several issues, including the growth of microbes and algae. This is due to the reduced sulfur content in modern diesel fuels, which has created an ideal environment for microbial growth. To prevent these issues, it is recommended to use anti-emulsifying, bactericidal, and anti-algae additives in the fuel.
Anti-emulsifying additives, also known as de-emulsifiers, work by allowing water to separate from the fuel and settle at the bottom of the tank. This prevents the water from becoming emulsified with the fuel, which can lead to corrosion, microbe, and algae growth. Emulsified water can also cause issues with fuel injectors and pumps, as it changes the way fuel is delivered to the engine. By using a de-emulsifier, free water can be eliminated, reducing the risk of these issues.
Bactericidal additives, also known as biocides, are used to kill microbes, bacteria, and fungi that may be present in the fuel. Microbial contamination can lead to the degradation of diesel, increased requirements for fuel filter replacement, and other issues. Biocides work by directly targeting and killing the microbes, preventing them from causing damage to the fuel system.
Anti-algae additives are also important to prevent the growth of algae in diesel fuel tanks. Algae can clog fuel filters and reduce the efficiency of the engine. By using additives that prevent algae growth, you can maintain the performance of your diesel engine and avoid costly repairs.
It is important to choose high-quality fuel additives that are suitable for your specific engine and fuel type. Some common fuel additives that are recommended by diesel enthusiasts include FPPF, Primrose, and Biobor. Additionally, regular maintenance and draining of water from the fuel system are crucial to preventing water-related issues.
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Choose a trusted fuel supplier
Water contamination in diesel fuel poses significant risks, from engine damage to reduced fuel efficiency. Water in diesel fuel can cause serious engine damage, leading to costly repairs. It can also decrease combustion efficiency, resulting in higher fuel consumption and reduced mileage.
Water can enter your diesel fuel through condensation, human error, ingress during refuelling, and water leakage into the tank. Water is denser than fuel, so it collects at the bottom of the filter, making it relatively easy to remove.
To choose a trusted fuel supplier and minimize the risk of water contamination, consider the following:
- Use Quality Fuel: Source ultra-low-sulphur diesel from reputable suppliers. Diesel is relatively clean and dry when it leaves the refinery, but it can pick up contaminants during transport and storage. By the time it reaches you, the end user, the fuel may have changed hands and tanks several times, increasing the likelihood of contamination.
- Regular Fuel Testing: Conduct routine fuel testing to monitor water content and detect contamination early. This will help you stay on top of water levels and take preventive action when necessary.
- Proper Storage: Store diesel in well-sealed, moisture-proof fuel storage tanks. Use steel tanks with protective linings to prevent corrosion.
- Water Separators: Install water separators in the fuel system to remove free water and emulsified water from diesel fuel.
- Fuel Additives: Utilize diesel additives designed to disperse water and inhibit microbial growth.
- Tank Maintenance: Regularly clean fuel tanks to eliminate sludge and water accumulation. Check if your diesel fuel has a shelf life and monitor water content regularly.
By following these guidelines and choosing a trusted fuel supplier, you can minimize the risk of water contamination in your diesel fuel and maintain the performance and longevity of your vehicles.
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Frequently asked questions
Some vehicles are equipped with a Fuel in Water (FIW) sensor to indicate when there is a substantial amount of water in the fuel filter. Symptoms of water in your diesel fuel filter include hesitation and spluttering when accelerating, difficulty reaching higher speeds, and murky-looking fuel with low opacity.
Water can enter your diesel fuel filter through condensation, human error, ingress during refuelling, water leakage into the tank, and exposure to rain or snow.
To drain water from your diesel filter, release the vent valve positioned at the top of the filter housing. If there isn't a valve, loosen the uppermost fuel pipe from the filter housing. Hold a jar under the drain plug or tap and loosen the plug or tap. Let the filter drain until clean diesel fuel flows out, then close the plug or tap and the vent valve.
Water in your diesel fuel filter can cause a variety of problems, including rust, reduced engine performance, and the formation of sludge and diesel bug. Water can also accelerate the degradation of diesel, reduce lubricity in the fuel, and promote the growth of microbes, bacteria, and algae, which can corrode the tank and fuel system.
To prevent water from getting into your diesel fuel filter, ensure that your diesel supplier takes precautions to avoid water contamination. Keep your tank covered and protected from the weather, and avoid leaving it open as this can increase the chance of condensation and precipitation. Regularly replace your filters and consider using anti-emulsifying, bactericidal, and anti-algae additives to prevent sludge and water buildup.
