Regan Brown
Diesel engines are susceptible to damage from dirty fuel, which can cause performance issues and even complete engine failure. Dirty diesel fuel is contaminated fuel, which can occur during the fuel's journey from the refinery to the user. This contamination can include water, dirt, rust, microbes, and other particulates. Older fuel tanks, particularly those made of black iron, are prone to rust and corrosion, which can introduce particulates even into initially clean fuel. Additionally, the high-pressure nature of modern diesel engines makes them more sensitive to dirty fuel. To prevent issues with dirty diesel, it is important to purchase quality diesel fuel, maintain the engine and its components, and avoid storing diesel for long periods of time.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Dirty fuel | Fuel contaminated by external materials, usually water, or particulates made up of a variety of materials |
| Causes of dirty fuel | Contamination can occur during transportation and storage |
| Contaminants | Dirt, rust, sediment, dust, microbes, water, varnish, sludge, metallic fragments, grime, etc. |
| Effects | Lower fuel efficiency, hesitation upon acceleration, rough idling, higher emissions, engine failure, etc. |
| Prevention | Proper filtration, routine filter changes, using additives, maintaining engines, avoiding storing diesel, etc. |
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What You'll Learn
Contaminants in diesel fuel
Diesel fuel is fairly clean when it leaves the refinery, but it can become contaminated during transportation and storage. The introduction of biodiesel (FAME) is likely to result in higher levels of diesel fuel operational issues. Water, for instance, can enter fuel through condensation, and microbes are capable of adapting to survive in harsh environments. Microbial contamination, or "diesel bug", is almost always present in fuels to some degree.
Other common contaminants found in diesel include microorganisms, wax, hard particles, debris, and other sediments. Hard particulates can be made up of a wide variety of materials found at job sites (e.g. coal, iron, salt), generated by fuel tanks and lines (e.g. rust, corrosion), and inside engines (e.g. carbonatious materials and wear particles). These hard particles can cause problems with the moving parts in the fuel system, potentially leading to engine failure.
The shelf life of diesel fuel is only six to twelve months, and the longer it is stored, the more opportunities there are for contaminants to enter. Poor storage conditions, such as exposure to warm moisture-laden air, high humidity, or ambient temperatures, can accelerate the deterioration of diesel fuel.
Additionally, the dispensing process can introduce contaminants. The more pipe the diesel runs through, the higher the potential for contamination. This includes the cleanliness of dispenser nozzles, vehicle fuel tank inlets, and onboard fuel tanks.
To prevent engine issues and ensure optimal performance, it is important to purchase quality diesel fuel and maintain the engine and its components, especially those involved in fuel supply and delivery.
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Poor fuel quality
The impact of poor fuel quality is exacerbated in modern diesel engines with High-Pressure Common Rail (HPCR) fuel systems. These systems have very tight tolerances and are highly susceptible to the effects of contaminated diesel fuel. The contaminants can cause problems with the moving parts in the fuel system, leading to starting issues, poor engine performance, idling problems, and even complete engine failure.
Additionally, impurities and abrasive particles in low-quality fuel can cause excessive wear and tear on engine components. These particles can damage fuel injectors, pumps, and cylinders, resulting in costly repairs and maintenance. Over time, the build-up of contaminants can also lead to corrosion and rust within the fuel system and engine, causing leaks and further degrading performance.
The quality of diesel fuel can degrade over time, especially when stored for extended periods. Oxygen, heat, and humidity impact the condition of stored fuel, and the risk of contamination by microorganisms increases with prolonged storage. Therefore, it is recommended to avoid storing diesel for long periods and to ensure proper storage conditions to maintain fuel quality.
To mitigate the effects of poor fuel quality, additives can be used to enhance the lubricity of the fuel, reduce friction, and protect the fuel system and engine from corrosion. Regular maintenance of the engine and its components, particularly those involved with fuel supply and delivery, is also crucial to ensure optimal performance and prolong the lifespan of the engine.
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Water contamination
Corrosion
Water in diesel fuel accelerates oxidation and rust formation on metal parts. Over time, this corrosion can affect fuel distribution, ruin fueling lines and systems, and lead to fuel filter clogging.
Microbial Growth
Water at the bottom of the tank allows for the growth of microbes known as "diesel bugs." These microbes feed on hydrocarbons and produce mud, sludge, acids, and gums. This process causes rapid oxidation of the diesel, leading to blocked filters and increased wear on the fuel injection system.
Performance Issues
Engine Damage
In extreme cases, water contamination can lead to catastrophic engine failure. Injectors can remain operable for some time, but failing injectors will cause a decline in engine performance and efficiency.
Prevention and Remedies
To prevent water contamination, it is essential to maintain fuel tanks properly and ensure correct storage conditions. Regularly inspect and maintain tank lids, caps, and vent pipes. Additionally, consider using a fuel circulator to prevent diesel fuel from becoming stagnant, especially in low-usage tanks.
If water contamination is suspected, a simple DIY test with water detection paste and a dipstick can confirm its presence. To remove water from the tank, several approaches can be taken, including chemical treatments, water-absorbing media, and fuel polishing operations. Products like Aquafighter can effectively remove water from diesel fuel and are recommended to prevent and address water contamination issues.
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Particulate matter
Diesel engines have made significant progress in the last 30 years in terms of increased efficiency, environmental protection, and comfort for both light and heavy-duty applications. This includes advancements in fuel quality, combustion processes, and exhaust gas after-treatment technologies.
The introduction of diesel particulate filters (DPF) has significantly reduced particulate emissions from diesel engines, bringing them to levels comparable to PFI gasoline engines. However, as efforts to reduce fuel consumption in light-duty vehicles resulted in a shift from PFI to GDI technology, PM emissions from gasoline vehicles have increased.
Internal engine modifications have been effective in minimizing particulate emissions without compromising power output. The use of a wall-flow diesel particulate filter can lead to an extreme reduction in emitted particulate mass, approaching 100%.
To comply with increasingly stringent emission regulations, such as the Euro 6 standards, further development of diesel engines is necessary. This includes not only engine advancements but also the implementation of exhaust after-treatment systems to further reduce emissions.
While great strides have been made, there is still a lack of full understanding of exhaust particulate matter, its physical and chemical properties, and its effects on human health and the environment. However, it is recognized as one of the major harmful emissions produced by diesel engines and is subject to diesel emission regulations worldwide.
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Fuel storage
Dirty diesel fuel can be caused by various contaminants, including water, microbes, and particulates. Water can enter fuel tanks through condensation, leaks, or improper sealing, creating an environment where bacteria and fungi thrive. These microorganisms form sludge and biofilms that clog fuel filters and fuel lines, leading to engine failure. To prevent water contamination, store diesel tanks in dry environments, keep them tightly sealed, and use water-absorbing filters or fuel-water separators.
Particulates, such as dust and dirt, can also contaminate diesel fuel during its journey from the refinery to the vehicle. Corroded or rusted surfaces, poor storage management, and the transfer process itself can introduce unwanted particulates into the diesel. To minimise particulate contamination, it is important to maintain clean dispensing equipment and fuel tank inlets. Additionally, keeping diesel tanks full can help reduce the particulate-to-fuel ratio and prevent water contamination.
Organic degradation occurs when diesel fuel is stored in tanks for prolonged periods, leading to expiration. Filling stations often add stabilisers and additives to prevent this type of degradation. Inorganic contamination happens during the fuel handling process, where diesel may come into contact with sand, dirt, rust, or other debris. To avoid inorganic contamination, source diesel fuel from reputable suppliers with good handling practices.
Proper fuel storage plays a critical role in maintaining diesel quality. Diesel should be stored in clean, sealed containers or tanks made from corrosion-resistant materials such as aluminium or treated steel. Storage tanks should be located in cool, shaded areas, protected from direct sunlight, extreme temperatures, and ignition sources. Regular tank maintenance, including monitoring for condensation and water buildup, is essential for maintaining fuel quality.
By following these fuel storage guidelines and implementing regular vehicle maintenance, you can help prevent and mitigate the effects of dirty diesel fuel, ensuring optimal engine performance and longevity.
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Frequently asked questions
Dirty diesel is diesel fuel that has been contaminated by external materials such as water, rust, microbes, or particulates.
Diesel fuel passes through many forms of storage after the refinement process, any of which could cause contamination. Corroded or rusted surfaces, poor storage management, and even the truck tanker journey can cause unwanted particulates to enter and contaminate the diesel.
Dirty diesel can cause injector deposits, clogged filters, and carbon build-up. This can lead to starting problems, poor engine performance, idling issues, and potentially complete engine failure.
