Ameer Randolph
Diesel fuel is used in high-speed diesel engines, especially motor vehicles such as cars and lorries. It is the most used fuel in the UK. However, not all diesel engines run on diesel fuel. While diesel fuel is mostly standardized across the world, there are some differences in diesel fuel across the globe. In the UK, diesel is normally stored in a black container to differentiate it from unleaded or leaded petrol, which are stored in green and red containers, respectively. In the US, diesel is stored in a yellow container. This article will explore the different types of diesel fuel available in the UK and whether they are the same.
Characteristics of Diesel Fuel in the UK
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Common names | Diesel, DERV, road diesel, white diesel |
| Origin | German scientist Rudolf Diesel's experiments for his compression-ignition engine |
| Viscosity requirement | 40 °C |
| Sulphur content | Maximum of 10 ppm sulphur |
| Lubricity | Everyday Diesel Treatment (EDT) or LX4 LUBRICITY EXTREME recommended to protect fuel injection systems |
| Container colour | Black |
| Additives | Ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA), antifoaming agents (silicones), antioxidants (hindered phenols), "metal deactivating agents" (salicylaldimines) |
| Types | Regular, premium, red diesel, green diesel |
| Uses | High-speed diesel engines, agricultural vehicles, home heating tanks, refrigeration units, marine craft |
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What You'll Learn
Diesel fuel types in the UK
In the United Kingdom, diesel fuel is commonly known as "gas oil" or "red diesel". It is used in agricultural vehicles, home heating tanks, refrigeration units on vans/trucks, and marine craft. Diesel fuel is also referred to as DERV, an acronym for "diesel-engined road vehicle", which is used as a synonym for unmarked road diesel fuel.
There are several other types of diesel fuel used in the UK, including white diesel and green diesel. White diesel, also known as road diesel, is the most commonly used fuel in the UK and is made from fossil fuels. Green diesel, on the other hand, is manufactured using renewable materials and is recognised as a biofuel. It is a more environmentally friendly option, reducing emissions by up to 90%.
In terms of diesel fuel grades, there is regular diesel (low sulphur) and premium diesel. Regular diesel is suitable for everyday driving, while premium diesel contains extra detergents and additives that can improve engine performance and reduce maintenance costs.
In the past, diesel fuel was not standardised, and most diesel engines ran on cheap fuel oils. Today, almost all petroleum-based diesel fuel available in the UK is Ultra-Low-Sulfur Diesel (ULSD), which has substantially lowered sulfur contents. However, there are still variations in diesel fuel quality, especially when comparing diesel produced in the US to that produced in Europe.
To improve the performance and longevity of their vehicles, drivers should be mindful of the different types of diesel fuel available and choose the most suitable option for their specific engine.
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Sulphur content and lubricity
Historically, sulphur in diesel fuel acted as a natural lubricant, reducing friction and preventing excessive wear on critical engine parts such as fuel injectors and pumps. With the advent of Ultra-Low Sulphur Diesel (ULSD), maintaining sufficient lubricity has become more challenging. The transition to ULSD, driven by stringent environmental regulations, has led to an immediate increase in wear and tear on fuel system components, including fuel pump failures and injector malfunctions.
To address the loss of lubricity, lubricity-improving additives have been introduced. Everyday Diesel Treatment (EDT) and LX4 LUBRICITY EXTREME are examples of additives that can be added to diesel fuel during each fill-up to enhance lubricity and protect engine components. EDT is a concentrated 6-in-1 fuel treatment that improves power and performance while increasing fuel economy. It also acts as a stabiliser, disperses moisture, and protects against rust and corrosion. LX4, designed for its extreme lubricity properties, can restore lubricity to even the poorest quality fuel.
While the use of lubricity additives has provided a solution to the loss of lubricity in ULSD, it has also underscored the necessity for reliable testing methods to ensure that diesel fuels meet the required lubricity standards. The High-Frequency Reciprocating Rig (HFRR) has become an essential tool for consistently measuring fuel lubricity, ensuring that all diesel fuels provide adequate protection for engine components, regardless of their sulphur content or additives.
In the United Kingdom, the EU, and the US, regulations have been implemented to reduce the sulphur content in diesel fuel. As of 2016, almost all petroleum-based diesel fuel available in these regions is of the ULSD type, with the EU and the US mandating a maximum sulphur content of 10 ppm and 15 ppm, respectively. These regulations have driven the development of new technologies to reduce sulphur content and improve fuel efficiency and pollution standards.
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Diesel storage
Diesel is an environmental hazard and must be stored in a safe, responsible, and environmentally friendly way. There are no specific legal requirements on how to store diesel or the quantity allowed in workplaces or domestic premises. However, there are general issues to consider, such as keeping the diesel away from direct heat sources and avoiding collision risks with vehicles or forklifts. Additionally, leaks and spills should be contained and cleaned up promptly.
There are several types of diesel storage options available in the UK, including portable fuel tanks, bunded tanks, fuel stations, and underground tanks. Portable fuel tanks are smaller, holding up to 200 litres of diesel, and are commonly used for backup generators or construction sites. Bunded tanks are double-walled with a containment area, preventing leaks and spills from contaminating the environment. Fuel stations are larger, found at petrol stations, and can hold thousands of litres of diesel. Underground tanks are ideal when space is limited and can hold a significant amount of diesel.
When storing diesel, it is important to choose the right tank or container to protect it from damage and contamination. Well-constructed tanks or containers keep the fuel dry and prevent accelerated fuel ageing. Diesel can be stored within a wide range of temperatures, but extreme temperatures should be avoided as they cause the fuel to degrade faster. Direct sunlight should also be avoided, as it accelerates fuel degradation.
To maintain fuel quality and engine performance, regular system inspections are necessary. Using additives can also help preserve the fuel and reduce maintenance costs. Biobor JF, for example, kills microbial contamination and preserves the fuel for long-term storage. Multifunctional additives like Biobor DC or MD improve cetane, lubricity, detergency, and water dispersion, increasing the shelf life of diesel fuel.
Before deciding on a diesel storage option, consider the amount of diesel to be stored, the storage location, and any applicable regulations. Accurately calculating the required tank size can be challenging, and it is often beneficial to purchase a larger tank to accommodate fluctuations in diesel prices and usage demands.
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Diesel engines
Diesel fuel is mostly used in high-speed diesel engines, especially motor vehicles such as cars and lorries. However, not all diesel engines run on diesel fuel. For example, large two-stroke watercraft engines typically use heavy fuel oils instead of diesel fuel. Diesel fuel is also used for non-vehicle applications, such as in agricultural vehicles, home heating tanks, refrigeration units, and marine craft.
In the United Kingdom, diesel fuel is commonly known as "red diesel" or "gas oil". It is used in agricultural vehicles, home heating tanks, refrigeration units, and marine craft. Diesel fuel is also referred to as "white diesel" or simply "diesel", and it is the most used fuel type in the UK.
The standard for diesel fuel in the European Union is EN 590, which falls under the category of Ultra-Low-Sulfur Diesel (ULSD). As of 2016, almost all petroleum-based diesel fuel available in the UK, mainland Europe, and North America is of the ULSD type. Diesel fuel for on-road use in the UK must have a maximum of 10 ppm sulphur.
There are different types of diesel fuel available in the UK, including red diesel, white diesel, and green diesel. Red diesel and white diesel are formed from the same process of distilling and refining crude oil, and they release the same greenhouse gases. However, they differ in their permitted uses. Red diesel is reserved for off-road vehicles and equipment in specific industries, such as agriculture and domestic heating. White diesel, on the other hand, is the standard diesel fuel used in on-road vehicles. Green diesel, in contrast, is manufactured using renewable materials and is recognised as a biofuel. It is a more environmentally friendly option, reducing emissions by up to 90%.
To enhance the performance and longevity of diesel engines, additives can be used. Everyday Diesel Treatment (EDT) is a fuel additive that improves power and performance while increasing fuel economy. It improves lubricity, stabilises the fuel, disperses moisture, and protects against rust and corrosion. EDT is recommended for all diesel engines as it is ash-less and does not adversely affect engine components. Premium diesel fuels also contain extra detergents that help keep the engine clean.
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Diesel alternatives
The UK government's plans to ban the sale of new petrol and diesel vehicles by 2030 has led to a spike in interest in alternative fuels for vehicles. Here are some of the alternatives to diesel fuel:
Biodiesel
Biodiesel is produced from new and used vegetable oils and animal fats. It is safe, biodegradable, and leads to a reduction in particulate matter, carbon monoxide, and hydrocarbons. It can be used in its pure form if engine modifications are made but is usually blended as 20% biodiesel with 80% regular diesel. Biodiesel may also have a cleaning effect on the engine, resulting in an engine that produces less smoke, runs more smoothly, and produces less noise.
Emulsified Diesel
Emulsified diesel is a blended mixture of diesel, water, and other additives that lead to a reduction in both particulate matter and NOx emissions. It can be used in any diesel engine, but the addition of water reduces the energy content of the fuel, which in turn reduces engine power and fuel economy.
Biogas CNG
Biogas CNG, or compressed natural gas, is predominantly made up of methane. It is produced from renewable energy sources, making it a more carbon-friendly option. However, there are few vehicles designed to run on Biogas CNG, which makes them a pricier vehicle choice, and there are few stations in the UK where you can refuel your vehicle with this fuel.
LPG
LPG offers environmental benefits as vehicles running on LPG emit less carbon dioxide and nitrogen dioxide. However, LPG is not a popular alternative fuel in the UK, making it difficult to come by, and converting a vehicle to be compatible with LPG can be costly.
Electric Vehicles
Electric vehicles are powered by electricity instead of traditional gasoline or diesel. They use electric motors and batteries to operate, offering a cleaner alternative to conventional vehicles. With zero tailpipe emissions, electric cars help reduce air pollution and dependence on fossil fuels. As battery technology advances, electric cars are becoming more affordable, efficient, and practical for everyday use.
Hydrogen-powered Vehicles
Hydrogen-powered vehicles (fuel cell electric vehicles) are similar to electric vehicles in that they are battery-powered. However, the battery is charged by a chemical reaction created by combining hydrogen with air. The only emission from these vehicles is water. While hydrogen cars can be refuelled in a matter of minutes, there are currently few hydrogen filling stations in the UK.
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Frequently asked questions
Diesel fuel is mostly used in high-speed diesel engines, especially motor vehicles like cars and lorries. Diesel fuel is derived from experiments conducted by German scientist Rudolf Diesel for his compression-ignition engine in the 1890s.
Common diesel types include regular diesel (low sulphur) and premium diesel. There are also other forms of diesel used in the UK, including red diesel and green diesel.
Red diesel and green diesel are formed from the same process and release the same greenhouse gases. However, they differ in their permitted uses. Red diesel is used in agricultural vehicles, home heating tanks, refrigeration units, and marine craft. Green diesel, on the other hand, is manufactured using renewable materials and is recognised as a biofuel, reducing emissions by up to 90%.
No, diesel fuel differs around the world due to government regulations. For example, in the US, diesel fuel has a maximum of 15 parts per million (ppm) of sulphur, while the European Union has set a limit of 10ppm.
Ultra-low-sulfur diesel (ULSD) is a type of diesel fuel with substantially lowered sulphur content. As of 2016, almost all petroleum-based diesel fuel available in the UK, mainland Europe, and North America is of the ULSD type.
