by Robert Braun | Jun 28, 2024 | Resources
Common Diesel Fuel Questions and Answers
On this page we will answer the most common questions about diesel fuel and system problems.
Q. What is diesel fuel?
A. Diesel fuel is generally the result of a mixture of derived petroleum compounds known as distillates of hydrocarbons,
Sometimes it may have extra additives added when manufactured to improve performance and increase shelf life.
Q, What if I put petrol/ gasoline in my diesel fuel?
A. Well you have a big problem! Adding petrol/ gasoline in a diesel tank can create destruction to the fuel injection system, pump and the engine itself.
A diesel fuel pump operates on very small tolerances at massive pressures and is lubricated and cooled by the diesel fuel. Petrol/ gasoline has no lubricating qualities, remember diesel is an oil aka. Lubricant.
No lubrication = metal particles forming in the fuel system due to excessive friction, this can cause massive wear to the entire fuel system.
Uncontrolled fuel ignition of the petrol under the much higher compression can cause internal engine damage to pistons and internal engine components.
You should not run a diesel engine that has been contaminated with petrol in the tank. Seek professional help to remove the petrol before using it.
Q. What is Alpine diesel?
A. Alpine Diesel is a special blend of fuel that resists freezing. In cold climates, where the temperature gets down to below zero you need to use this type of fuel.
The temperature level when diesel fuel starts to thicken up and form into a wax is known as the cloud point, thick fuel can damage injectors, block filters and stop and engine from operating.
Q. What are the main quality characteristics of diesel fuel?
A. Diesel fuel ought to be clean and water-free. It should flow well during cold weather and should not damage injectors or any other fuel system components.
Fuel should have a level of cetane to supply good characteristics and combustion.
Q. What does diesel fuel cetane mean?
A. The cetane number indicates the fuel’s ignition efficiency that influences not only starting but also combustion burn.
A higher cetane volume does not significantly increase engine performance. Many engine producers prescribe at least a 40 cetane diesel fuels.
Q. What does fuel cleanliness mean?
A. Cleanliness in diesel fuel means complete removal of water and polluted matter in fuel.
This is very important due to low tolerances between injector nozzles and injector pumps. All engine manufacturers equip their fuel systems with filters.
These should be periodically drained and replaced as per the engine manufacturers instructions. Many filter manufacturers like Racor have filters with drain valves which are best suited to marine applications where water in fuel is a common problem.
Q. How can water get into diesel fuel and what does it do?
A. The water contamination can enter as different forms such as condensation, shipment, leakage by inadequate filling pipes, and reckless handling in diesel fuel storage systems.
Water can cause damage of the injectors and pump, bacteria and fungi growth, and plugging of filters with corrosion and biological materials causing all sorts of issues. Therefore, water ingress into fuel must be tested periodically for equipment and storage tanks and drained or cleaned by fuel polishing as needed. Biocides can be appropriate in extreme cases for bacterial growth management.
Q. What is the primary cause of low diesel fuel efficiency?
A. Contamination of fuel by water and dirt from the mishandling of fuel is the leading cause of low diesel engine performance.
It would be ideal if you were extra careful to ensure that fuel tank tops, filling nozzles are kept clean to reduce the chances of contamination. Regular water removal from storage tanks, diesel tanks for cars, and filter bowls are essential. A system with no water contamination can stop fuel problems quite easily.
Q. Why do diesel engines smoke?
A. Incomplete combustion produces diesel fuel smoke, what you see as black smoke is simply fuel that has not been burnt in the combustion chamber.
White smoke is caused by small droplets of unburned fuel owing to the low temperature of the engine. This smoke should fade as the motor engine warms up. Light smoke is caused by defective injectors, inadequate air, and overload, and if the engine is over-fueling. Blue smoke is the result of the combustion of oil, which is a low mechanical quality signal such as a worn-out engine rings, pistons and sleeves.
Q. What does fuel heat quality mean?
A. The heat energy content of diesel fuel is the energy consumption per liter of diesel fuel combustion. Measured in megajoules, it is related to the petroleum hydrocarbon mixture.
by Robert Braun | Jun 28, 2024 | Resources
Different Types of Diesel Fuel Contamination
Particle Contamination
Dirt, mud and other particle pollutants typically enter into the tank via the breathing tubes or from poor quality fuel. In dirty regions, the problem of fuel pollution into the tank could be worse.
Contamination usually settles down onto the bottom of the tank as particles are heavier than fuel molecules, but when the tank is moved about these particles dislodge and will enter the fuel flow stream and get trapped in filters.
Rust Contamination
Metallic pollutants, particularly rust, are typically found in storage tank corrosion debris and distribution system components. They can plug filters and reduce fuel flow. If left unchecked, engines may lose power or even stop.
Water Contamination
Water also can easily reach the fuel in your tank, either as water forming on the inside walls of tanks form condensation or as part of the fuel delivery process. Water mostly enters in fuel tanks from the air and condensates when the atmospheric temperature drops.
Water mixed in the fuel may change its color, making it look dull or milky. Water is very harmful to fuel systems as it induces corrosion and encourages fungal and bug growth.
To tackle this issue, all fuel tanks should have a drain valve at the lowest part of the tank that allows water to be drained on a regular basis.
Bacterial Contamination
Different type of fungus, bacteria and yeasts may increase in fuel as long as the water is present. Water is the key ingredient needed to allow algae and microbes to grow in fuel systems.
Any of these species can generate filter plugging on a grand scale that can stop an engine real quick.
In some areas of the fuel system, especially where fuel may remain still and where water (e.g. spots of condensation) may be present, bacteria will be provided with the perfect climate to grow in.
These organisms usually look like slimes from the bottom of a stagnate pond when viewed visually. To identify these types of bugs easily you can use our test kit here.
Wax Contamination
Wax is a typical component of fuel but can separate itself on very low temperature from the filter. The cloud point is the test for calculating this fuel property and changed monthly. Keep in mind that fuel purchased in summer, if used in winter, may develop excessive wax in its composition.
Gum Contamination
Gums can be produced as a result of chemical changes in the fuel, especially by oxygen exposure, acids, high temperature, and other contaminations during storage. Gum can also emit from fuel as sediment that can impede fuel filters and injector operation.
Monitoring and Cleaning of Diesel Fuel
Typically, a routine fuel inspection and testing can show the users the excessive impurity in fuel. It would be best if you keep the following points in mind while checking fuel:
- The fuel you use for filling or refilling the supply tank should follow the required standard.
- The fuel from tanks should be inspected on a regular basis for signs of problems.
- Regular testing of your fuel for water and bugs should be carried out.
- Accumulated water should be removed, drain from the lowest point of the tanks. If it is necessary, then check the vents and fill points so that rain cannot enter your tanks.
- The fuel in the supply tanks should be tested and/or polished after every five years if you are not using it. This is especially important for critical applications like back-up power generators.
- You should check for sediments and remove water ASAP; the tanks should be also cleaned as required. This cleaning can be performed by using a fuel polishing machine.
Diesel Fuel Filter Plugging
Fuel filters are the central part of diesel fuel systems and they are the single most important component to keep your fuel clean. They remove contamination in fuel before they could harm the engines fuel pump or injectors. However, they may have a short life if you fuel tank is full of contamination.
Depending on the volume of a contaminant that they must extract frequent plugging (blockages) may occur. When fuel filters block before the usual service change; it means that fuel is more polluted than average. A fuel inspection will tackle this problem if you are facing this situation of frequent (not normal) filter replacements.
You must understand that the fuel in your system is in a constant loop of flow, the fuel just does sit in the lines waiting to enter the pump and injectors. Diesel flow from the tank through the fuel pump is constant as the fuel is a lubricant for the pump so constant flow is needed through the pump.
This is why the filters never really get a break, when the engine is running fuel is flowing through them. No matter even if the engine is at idle, they are working hard to protect your pump and injector from damage.
Testing Your Diesel Fuel with No Test Kits
If you have no test kits on hand you can just do a visual inspection. While doing sampling from the storage tank, make sure that enough fuel is still running off to clear the any drain lines before taking any sample.
Always take a sample into a clean glass bottle and visually test it first as it will save a lot of time since a visual examination will quickly show the source of the problems.
The fuel should be transparent and bright without suspended water or material. It should not be cloudy, hazy or milky on inspection.
Testing Your Diesel Fuel with Test Kits
We have available simple and low cost diesel fuel test kits for checking of water and bacterial problems – view our products here.
by Robert Braun | May 28, 2024 | Resources
Diesel Engines, Hard to start and Lack of power
These are indicators of inadequate fuel passing through the engine, thus not providing the necessary fuel to complete the combustion process.
This may mean that the fuel system is partly blocked. The fuel filter, located in the fuel supply line between the fuel tank and the pump, is most likely the key problem.
The fuel filter is element that containing a special paper cartridge (think of a toilet roll in a container with an in and out port) The filter extracts particles and some of them often extract water that needs to be emptied at regular intervals from a small tap.
Points to note
Clear and light means the fuel does not contain any visible drops of water or other particles and without haziness or cloudiness. Sometimes the filter bowl has some contamination, this is natural and generally does not cause filter blockages, except it was in large quantities.
Common Diesel Fuel Problems PDF Downloads
Some of the common causes of filter blockages
Suspended Water
Suspended water can be seen a fuel haziness that is considered a problem for engine operating correctly. This issue can be overcome by ensuring that settled water is drained often from the tank or filter drains if applicable.
Suspended particulate matter
Dirt, rust, or oxidized fuel, may form a suspension of particles, creating deposits on the filter elements. Filter and fuel laboratory analyses will be needed to ascertain the causes. Issue resolution can include fuel cleaning and/or better management of fuel storage systems.
Wax
Wax looks like a bright yellow suspension in the fuel during cold conditions. If the fuel is cooled below the allowable operating temperature, it will create a yellow solution that can block filters.
This happens due to the use of the wrong fuel for the season or area, for example, if you use summer grade ADF in the winter season or bring ADF from warmer areas in the winter to a colder region.
Fungus, algae and bacteria
Fungal pollution is a result of wrong or poor drainage of water. It is usually related to free water, hazy fuel, suspended water for a long time.
You can detect them as a black or dark chocolate slime that will block the filters. Fuel laboratory tests are needed to confirm that fungal growth in your tank exists.
For rectifying these issues, you will need to change filters, drain all storage tanks of water and sediment. Severe pollution may need a thorough cleaning and polishing of the tank and biocide treatment.
Normally problem happens mostly in the warmer seasons as bugs love higher temperatures to reproduce.
Diesel fuel testing
The easiest way to check for the above issues is to take a sample of the fuel from the tank and use one of our high performance test kits.
If the fuel is clean and bright your fuel is probably ok to use. If the fuel is hazy or has some particles floating in it, you should check it further for problems.
Additives
Often customers treat their fuels with additives, which can block filters if they are added or mixed into the fuel incorrectly.
Additives will not remove slime; in fact, additives will loosen up the slime causing filter blockages in some cases.
by Robert Braun | May 25, 2024 | Resources
In this article, I will explore the benefits of using Cummins Marine Diesel Engines, the specifications of these engines, the technology behind them, their durability, maintenance and cost-effectiveness, as well as their place in the market. I will also offer tips on how to choose the right Cummins Marine Diesel Engine for your vessel and discuss the installation and support services available.
Intro to Cummins Marine Diesel Engines
Cummins Marine Diesel Engines are a popular choice for many marine enthusiasts due to their reliability, durability, and performance. These engines are designed to meet the needs of various marine vessels, from commercial boats to pleasure craft. Cummins has been in the marine industry for over 100 years and has a reputation for producing some of the best marine engines in the market.
One of the main benefits of using their engines is for fuel efficiency. These engines are designed to consume less fuel while producing more power, which means that you can travel longer distances without having to refuel. Another benefit of using these engines is their durability. Cummins are built to withstand harsh marine conditions, and they can last for many years with minimal maintenance.
Their engines are also known for their low emissions. These engines are designed to meet the latest environmental regulations, which means that they produce fewer emissions than other marine engines. This makes them an excellent choice for marine enthusiasts who are concerned about the environment.
They are available in various specifications, depending on the size and type of vessel you own. These engines range from 5.9L to 95L and can produce anywhere from 150 to 4200 horsepower. They are also available in a range of configurations, including inboard, sterndrive, and pod drive.
Another specification worth mentioning is the SmartCraft Digital Technology. This technology allows you to monitor your engine’s performance in real-time, including fuel consumption, engine speed, and temperature. You can also receive alerts when your engine needs servicing, which can help you avoid costly repairs in the long run.
Technology of Cummins Marine Diesel Engines
Cummins use advanced technology that makes them efficient, reliable, and durable. These engines are equipped with a high-pressure common rail fuel system that ensures precise fuel injection, which results in better fuel economy and reduced emissions.
Another technology used in these engines is the Variable Geometry Turbocharger (VGT). The VGT optimizes the airflow to the engine, which improves performance and reduces emissions. Many Cummins products also come with a cooled Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) system, which further reduces emissions and improves fuel economy.
Durability of Cummins Marine Diesel Engines
The durability is one of their strongest features. These engines are built to withstand harsh marine conditions, including saltwater and extreme temperatures. They are also designed to operate for long periods without overheating or experiencing any mechanical issues.
They are built using high-quality materials and are subjected to rigorous testing to ensure their reliability. These engines come with a warranty that covers any defects or issues that may arise during their lifespan.
Maintenance and Cost-Effectiveness
These engines are relatively easy to maintain, and their cost-effectiveness makes them an excellent choice for marine enthusiasts. These engines require minimal maintenance and can last for many years with regular servicing.
The cost of maintaining them is also relatively low compared to other marine engines as they don’t over price replacement parts.
These engines are designed to be fuel-efficient, which means that you can save money on fuel costs in the long run.
Cummins Marine Diesel Engines in the Market
Cummins Marine Diesel Engines are one of the most popular marine engines in the market. They are used in various marine vessels, including commercial boats, yachts, and pleasure craft. These engines are known for their reliability, durability, and performance, which makes them a top choice for many marine enthusiasts.
Choosing the Right Engine for Your Vessel
Choosing the right engine for your vessel can be a challenging task, especially if you are new to the marine industry. The first thing you need to consider is the size and type of your vessel. The engine you choose should be able to provide enough power to propel your vessel efficiently.
Another thing to consider is the type of transmission you have on your vessel. Some Cummins engines are designed to work with specific transmissions, so you need to ensure that you choose an engine that is compatible with your transmission.
Installing a engine is a complex process that requires professional expertise. A team of experts who can help you with the installation process and provide support services. These experts can also help you choose the right engine for your vessel and provide advice on maintenance and servicing.
Conclusion
Cummins Marine Diesel Engines are an excellent choice for marine enthusiasts who want to maximize the efficiency and performance of their vessel. These engines are fuel-efficient, durable, and reliable. They are also environmentally friendly and cost-effective.
Choosing the right power plant for your small vessel or super yacht is crucial and with the help of Cummins experts, you can make an informed decision at a great price with ever lasting reliability.
History of Cummins
by Robert Braun | May 8, 2024 | Resources
Microbial problems often can create major issues in your diesel fuel system that can cause your engine to shut down at the worst possible time along with damaged expensive fuel system components or the chance of an environmental catastrophe if fuel seeps into the ground.
Some microbial fuel issues:
- A fuel tank with a high amount of microbial contamination can no longer be used safely, it may require the removal of all fuel and complete cleaning before it can be placed back into service with new fuel.
- A generator engine will not run to its full load capacity and may shut down during a critical emergency if it’s filters are plugged (blocked) full of microbial contamination like in above images.
- An engine on a boat may suffer serious operating problems at sea due to damaged fuel pumps and injectors from microbial contamination.
- Microbial issues can also create internal damage to tanks themselves. If left unchecked microbial influenced corrosion commonly known as (MIC) can develop. If microbial contamination gets high especially common in warmer environments it produces acids within the fuel that will eat through the tank walls over time. These acids within your tank are basically the termites of the fuel world. Just like termites you will never see them until you have costly issues to repair. MIC can also lead to major safety and environmental problems, one possible scenario is that a diesel fuel tank could develop a leak from the corrosion and the fuel seeps into the ground or into the hull of your vessel.
How Microbial bugs gets into your fuel tank
As you know water in air moves from humidity to condensation, just like when you take a cold brew out of the fridge the water in the air condensates on the colder bottle to form droplets of water. This is exactly the same process that happens in your fuel tank 365 days per year.
From the night time with cooler temperatures to the day time when it’s warmer you have water forming naturally on the internal walls of your fuel tank. This water will drip into the fuel and find it’s way to the bottom of the tank where it will turn into bugs given the right conditions.
Remember your fuel tank is not a sealed unit, in order to function it must always be vented to atmospheric pressure so it must breath in order to not have negative operating pressure when the engine is running. It’s the water that forms in your tank that creates the perfect environment for microbial growth. Bugs don’t just get into your fuel tank; they grow their given the right ingredients.
Like in the image below – The tank caps says “BUY CLEAN FUEL – KEEP IT CLEAN”
Summary Tips
Water in your diesel fuel can lead to expensive repairs due to microbial growth these problems that develop can include damaged fuel injectors, defective injector pumps, blocked filters, loss of engine power and out of service equipment. You should frequently test fuel for water issues and treat the problem before it gets out of hand. No water equals no bugs so keep the H2O out of your fuel and your good to go – well your engine that is.
by Robert Braun | Apr 25, 2024 | Resources
As a marine enthusiast, I understand the challenges of keeping diesel engines running smoothly. Marine fuel systems can be very delicate and even the smallest contaminants can cause significant issues that can lead to expensive repairs.
This is where a marine fuel polishing system comes into play along with regular diesel fuel testing. In this article, I’ll discuss what a marine fuel polishing system is, how it works, and the benefits of using one for your diesel engines.
Common Issues with Marine Diesel Fuel Systems
Common issues with marine fuel systems include water and fungal contamination, sludge buildup and filter plugging.
These issues can lead to decreased engine performance and increased fuel consumption.
Fuel polishing systems help prevent these issues by removing contaminants from the fuel.
Intro to Marine Diesel Fuel Polishing
Marine fuel polishing is the process of removing water, sludge, and other contaminants from diesel fuel. Fuel polishing is necessary to maintain the quality of the fuel and prevent damage to the engine.
Contaminated fuel can cause clogged filters, injectors, and fuel lines. These issues can lead to decreased engine performance, increased fuel consumption, and eventually engine failure.
What is a Marine Fuel Polishing System?
A marine fuel polishing system is a device that removes contaminants from diesel fuel. The system works by circulating the fuel through a filter and separating the water and other contaminants from the fuel. The filtered fuel is then returned to the tank, and the contaminants are collected in a separate container and disposed of.
Marine fuel polishing systems vary in size and complexity, and they can be installed on a range of vessels, from small boats to large ships or they can be of the mobile type like below that is not a permanent mounting to the vessel.
How Does a Marine Fuel Polishing System Work?
A marine fuel polishing system works by circulating the fuel through a filter and separating the water and other contaminants from the fuel. The system typically consists of a pump, magnetic conditioner, filters, and water separator.
The pump circulates the fuel through the filter, which removes the contaminants. The separator then removes the water and other impurities from the fuel, which is then returned to the tank.
The contaminants are collected in a separate container, which can be easily removed and disposed of.
Importance of Fuel Cleanliness for Diesel Engines
Fuel cleanliness is critical for the proper functioning of diesel engines. Contaminated fuel can cause clogged filters, injectors, and fuel lines, which can lead to decreased engine performance and increased fuel consumption.
In severe cases, contaminated fuel can cause engine failure, which can be costly to repair.
Fuel polishing systems help maintain fuel cleanliness and prevent these issues from occurring.
Benefits of Using a Marine Fuel Polishing System
- Using a marine fuel polishing system offers several benefits. First, it helps maintain fuel cleanliness, which leads to improved engine performance and increased fuel efficiency.
- Second, it can save money on costly repairs by preventing engine damage caused by contaminated fuel.
- Third, it can extend the life of the fuel and reduce the need for frequent fuel tank cleaning.
- Finally, it offers peace of mind, knowing that the fuel system is clean and functioning properly.
Types of Marine Fuel Polishing Systems
There are two types of marine fuel polishing systems: portable and permanent.
- Portable systems which can be easily moved from one boat to another and they usually can be hired from fuel cleaning services.
- Permanent systems are installed directly into the fuel system.
Choosing the Right Marine Fuel Polishing System for Your Vessel
When choosing a marine fuel polishing system, it is essential to consider the size of the vessel, the fuel consumption, and the type of fuel used.
It is also essential to consider the maintenance requirements of the system and the cost of replacement filters and parts.
Installation and Maintenance of a Marine Fuel Polishing System
Installation of a marine fuel polishing system is typically straightforward and can be done by a qualified technician.
Maintenance of the system includes regular filter replacements and separator cleanings.
It is essential to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for maintenance to ensure the system is functioning correctly.
Conclusion: Marine Fuel Polishing Systems
Investing in a marine fuel polishing system is a wise decision for anyone who wants to maintain the long-term performance of their diesel engines.
Fuel cleanliness is critical for the proper functioning of diesel engines, and contaminated fuel can cause costly repairs.
By using a marine fuel polishing system, you can maintain fuel cleanliness, improve engine performance, and save money on costly repairs.
Choose the right system for your vessel, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for maintenance, and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with a clean and functioning fuel system.
