This blog will go over what goes into quality testing for diesel fuel.
Diesel fuel systems are becoming a lot more sophisticated by the day, aiming to maximize fuel economy and help meet emission regulations. So, the new reality is emphasizing the true quality and cleanliness of all diesel fuels used in engines today. Frequent diesel fuel testing during handling or storage will assure engine manufacturer compliance and will save you from expensive fuel contamination and degradation problems. Read on to learn about what goes into quality testing for diesel fuel.
Diesel Fuel Testing
Diesel fuel quality testing can unearth a lot of factors. Below are a few factors you can measure while quality testing your diesel fuel.
Cetane Rating
Considered a legitimate and fundamental measurement, the cetane value of your diesel fuel impacts its main performance – how quickly and thoroughly the fuel burns. Cetane is the chemical component found naturally in diesel that will rapidly ignite under pressure. Cetane number is the technical term for this type of measurement. Consider it similar to any gasoline octane ratings. The distinction is that a solid octane rating indicates that fuel doesn’t ignite too fast, whereas a good cetane number will indicate that fuel ignites as soon as possible.
Oxidative Stability
Keep in mind that because of environmental variables and other impurities, the cetane rating of stored fuel may decrease as time passes. As a result, occasional cetane rating testing for stored fuel is important.
Water Content
Testing fuel for water content is just as crucial since water molecules can cause fuel to break down and microbial life to grow. Excessive water content could cause equipment to fail and perform inadequately. Water in fuel makes it open to possible impurity buildup. It could also induce freezing in your fuel tanks, pipes, or filters. So, making sure you have a safe maximum water content in fuel is important.
If you’d like to learn more about how diesel fuel is tested, then give Howard Energy a call!
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At Howard Energy, we fully understand how your business depends on a reliable and steady supply of gasoline and diesel fuel to keep your operations at its peak. As a family-owned, commercial full-service gas and diesel fuel supplier, Howard Energy has been serving companies across Maryland, Washington DC, and Northern VA for over 25 years.
Our team of experts has a thorough knowledge of the petroleum industry to devise commercial and retail fueling solutions. As a result, we use our keen insight to build strong partnerships with commercial trucking, construction, manufacturing companies, and more. Howard Energy is proud to bring our products and services to gas stations, car dealerships, marinas, and beyond – 7 days a week with no surcharge on holidays or weekends.
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