Diesel is a type of fuel (and engine) prevalent in automotive utilize, which is of a change consistency; it is a thicker, heavier fuel than typical petrol without almost the heaviness of lube oil. Due to of this convert status, the petroleum-derived compounds used to fabricate diesel fuel are referred to as "Centre distillates." Diesel fuel can gain more additives also the petroleum-derived compounds which are its representation, and it is intended chiefly for adoption in diesel engines.
Diesel vs. Gasoline
While gasoline engines use a spark to burn the fuel, diesel fuel does not combust as easily and requires increased engine compression to create the heat needed for it to burn. Despite the stereotype of huge, dirty "big rigs" burning diesel fuel at rapid rates, due to the energy content of the fuel, diesel engines actually use 30 percent less energy (fuel) than gasoline engines, assuming similar levels of engine performance.
Diesel Fuel Quality Standards
Several factors are used to examine the quality of any particular diesel fuel. The cetane number refers to the relative ease with which diesel fuel can combust in the engine, particularly in low temperatures. Low-temperature operability is its own factor, an assessment of how easily the fuel flows in the engine, decreasing the likelihood that it will plug up in the filter in cold temperatures. Lubricity is the degree to which the fuel pump and injector will be subjected to wear when the fuel is used. Cleanness of diesel fuel refers to its lack of water and other particles, which, if allowed to build up, can damage the fuel injection system.
New Sulfur Regulations
New Diesel Vehicles
As society demands more fuel-efficient vehicles, automakers are eager to prove to consumers that diesel fuel and dirty no longer need to be synonymous. 2009 saw several new models of cars equipped with the more efficient diesel engines, which manufacturers hope will create a cleaner and sportier association with the word "diesel." Volkswagen unveiled two diesel models--an SUV (the Touareg TDI) and a sedan (the Jetta TDI). Mercedes-Benz, Audi and BMW also have diesel offerings.As of 2007, all diesel vehicles are designed only to be fueled with Ultra Low Sulfur Diesel (ULSD) as opposed to LSD, the previous standard. This new emission regulation limits the amount of sulfur in diesel fuel to 15 parts per million or less. By December 1, 2010, the EPA has required that all fuel on the market be of the new ULSD variety.
