Fuel Grades

[Mark Page]

In a previous post there was reference to #1 and #2 grade diesel. This is something new to me. In these parts (Maryland) you can buy diesel or kerosene, that's it. Does this have something to do with our milder weather. An average winter day here is probably in the low thirties and low 20's at night. We have a streak in the teens once in a blue moon.
I use stabil in the winter and have never had a fuel related problem.
Educate me

 

[rsewill]

You won't have a problem with No. 2 jelling or clouding above 20F. You may want to add a little deicer because you can always get water in your fuel from condensation, etc., which can freeze. A little Power Service from time-to-time will take care of the water.

 

[WM75Guy]

ASTM D975 - 11 Standard Specification for Diesel Fuel Oils

Abstract

This specification covers seven grades of diesel fuel oils suitable for various types of diesel engines. These grades are: Grade No. 1-D S15; Grade No. 1-D S500; Grade No. 1-D S5000; Grade No. 2-D S15; Grade No. 2-D S500; Grade No. 2-D S5000; and Grade No. 4-D. The requirements specified for diesel fuel oils shall be determined in accordance with the following test methods: flash point; cloud point; water and sediment; carbon residue; ash; distillation; viscosity; sulfur; copper corrosion; cetane number; cetane index; aromaticity; lubricity; and conductivity.

This abstract is a brief summary of the referenced standard. It is informational only and not an official part of the standard; the full text of the standard itself must be referred to for its use and application. ASTM does not give any warranty express or implied or make any representation that the contents of this abstract are accurate, complete or up to date.

1. Scope

1.1 This specification covers seven grades of diesel fuel oils suitable for various types of diesel engines. These grades are described as follows:

1.1.1 Grade No. 1-D S15 - special-purpose, light middle distillate fuel for use in diesel engine applications requiring a fuel with 15 ppm sulfur (maximum) and higher volatility than that provided by Grade No. 2-D S15 fuel.

1.1.2 Grade No. 1-D S500 - special-purpose, light middle distillate fuel for use in diesel engine applications requiring a fuel with 500 ppm sulfur (maximum) and higher volatility than that provided by Grade No. 2-D S500 fuel.

1.1.3 Grade No. 1-D S5000 - special-purpose, light middle distillate fuel for use in diesel engine applications requiring a fuel with 5000 ppm sulfur (maximum) and higher volatility than that provided by Grade No. 2-D S5000 fuels.

1.1.4 Grade No. 2-D S15 - general purpose, middle distillate fuel for use in diesel engine applications requiring a fuel with 15 ppm sulfur (maximum). It is especially suitable for use in applications with conditions of varying speed and load.


From Exxon/Mobil

What should I do in the winter to adjust for the cold temperatures?
We offer winterized product in a majority of markets that experience severe weather conditions. If temperatures fall well below norms for the local area or you will be driving much farther north, additional Diesel Fuel No. 1 blending is recommended.

Why shouldn't I just use Diesel Fuel No. 1?
While Diesel Fuel No. 1 has an advantage in low temperature conditions, there are some disadvantages, as well. The energy content of Diesel Fuel No. 1 is about 95% that of Diesel Fuel No. 2 and will provide a correspondingly lower fuel economy.

Diesel Fuel No. 1 is also lower in viscosity and provides less lubrication for the fuel pump and fuel distributor.

How long can I store diesel fuel?
If you keep it clean, cool and dry, diesel fuel can be stored 6 months to 1 year without significant quality degradation. Storage for longer periods can be accomplished through use of periodic filtrations and addition of fuel stabilizers and biocides.