It's All About The Flow

The precise measurement of fuel flow and other fuel characteristics are vital across numerous industries.

Whether it’s for propelling heavy equipment, generating electricity, or powering industrial processes, effective fuel management ensures safety, efficiency, and the smooth functioning of mechanical equipment such as engines, generators, or other heavy equipment. 

In this article, we will explore the importance of fuel metering and monitoring in several key industries, including transportation, energy, and manufacturing, and discuss the benefits of measuring other various fuel characteristics as well. 

Where are Fuel Metering Systems Used?

Fuel metering systems are commonly used in automobiles, airplanes, and ships to ensure that the engines receive the optimal amount of fuel for a given operating condition.

This is important not only for achieving maximum fuel efficiency and quantifying emissions but also for maximizing engine performance and reliability.  

In the aviation industry, for example, fuel metering systems are used to precisely control the amount of fuel delivered to the engine at various stages of flight. This is critical for achieving optimal engine performance and ensuring safe operation of the aircraft.  

In power plants that burn fossil fuels, fuel metering systems help to ensure that the correct amount of fuel is delivered to the combustion chamber to generate the desired amount of energy. This not only improves efficiency but also reduces emissions, as excess fuel can lead to incomplete combustion and the release of harmful pollutants. 

In the manufacturing industry, the same metering technologies are used to measure the flow-rate of different liquids in various industrial processes.

For example, in the chemical industry, metering systems are used to measure and control the flow of chemicals, ensuring that the facility operations are efficient and safe.

In the farming and food processing industries, metering systems are used to control the flow of liquids such as water or milk. This is done during various cooking and baking processes to ensure consistent quality and reduce facility waste. 

Fuel metering is also important in industrial heating systems, such as those used in foundries or metallurgical processes. In these applications, fuel metering systems help to control the flow of fuel to the heating elements, ensuring that the temperature is maintained within a safe and efficient range. 

Net Fuel Consumption Monitoring

Fuel consumption monitoring refers to the process of measuring and tracking the amount of fuel consumed by a vehicle, machine, or equipment over a specific period of time.

This monitoring is typically done using sensors, meters, or electronic devices that record the amount of fuel used during operation. 

Fuel consumption monitoring is crucial for several reasons, especially in applications where these backup power systems play a crucial role, such as data centers, hospitals, and other essential facilities. 

Fuel consumption monitoring systems serve several important purposes:

• Efficiency Tracking: It helps businesses and individuals track their fuel usage to identify patterns and trends, enabling them to optimize fuel efficiency and reduce costs.
• Performance Evaluation: Monitoring fuel consumption can provide insights into the performance of engines or systems. Consistent increases in fuel usage may indicate potential issues that need attention.
• Environmental Impact Assessment: By keeping track of fuel consumption, individuals and organizations can assess their environmental impact and identify opportunities to reduce carbon emissions.
• Preventative Maintenance: Monitoring fuel consumption can help anticipate maintenance needs by flagging any unusual changes in the fuel usage that may indicate underlying problems.
• Cost Management: Understanding fuel consumption patterns allows for better budgeting and cost management, especially in industries heavily reliant on fuel, such as transportation and logistics.

You Can't Improve What You Don't Measure

One of the greatest operational benefits of fuel metering systems is the ability to measure equipment performance and efficiency. The active monitoring of net fuel consumption allows facility managers to have real quantified insight into the health of mechanical operations. This is why it is ultimately important for flow meters to be accurate in their measurements.

This active monitoring/measuring is done automatically by the fuel monitoring system using meters that record the characteristics of fuel being sent to the engine(s) and then comparing that to the characteristics of the returned fuel. 

By measuring the differential in values between these measuring points, the system is able to accurately calculate the net fuel consumption of the engine. 

Fuel consumption monitoring systems are also used to help monitor engine performance. Thus when the consumption differential reaches irregular levels then it can signal the need for engine or equipment maintenance.  

These fuel insights not only help equipment managers to better predict engine maintenance, but they also give them the critical data needed to optimize the cyclic operation of the equipment to prevent unnecessary downtime.  

Overall, fuel consumption monitoring is a valuable tool for optimizing operations, promoting sustainability, and ensuring efficient resource management. By optimizing fuel consumption, reducing emissions, and improving process efficiency, fuel consumption monitoring can help to reduce costs, improve safety, and promote sustainable development.  

The ability to measure and control the flow of fuel is essential in many industrial and economic processes. Within many industries, fuel metering and monitoring systems help to ensure efficient and safe operation of various equipment and systems. 

As such, continued investment in fuel metering technology and research is critical for the success of many industries and the overall health of our economy and environment. 

If you're someone who likes to keep a backup supply of gasoline or diesel fuel on hand, or you work in an industry that requires large quantities of fuel storage, you may be wondering how long you can safely store petroleum fuel. The answer depends on several factors, including the type of fuel, storage conditions, and the presence of additives or stabilizers.

How Long Does Fuel Really Last?

In general, gasoline and diesel can be stored for 6 months to 1 year without significant degradation if they are stored in a clean, sealed, and dry container or tank, away from sunlight, heat, and sources of ignition. However, fuel that is exposed to oxygen, moisture, or contaminants can deteriorate more quickly, resulting in reduced quality, lower octane rating, and increased levels of sediments or sludge.

To extend the shelf life of petroleum fuel, manufacturers often add chemical stabilizers to prevent oxidation and microbial growth. These additives can help the fuel remain stable in storage, as long as the fuel is kept in proper conditions.

It's important to note that prolonged storage of gasoline and diesel fuel is not recommended, as it can lead to the formation of harmful varnish, gum, or solids that can clog fuel lines, filters, and injectors. To ensure the fuel you have stored is still usable, you should periodically test for contamination and check the fuel for signs of deterioration, such as changes in color, odor, or sediment levels. If you suspect your stored fuel has gone bad, it's best to dispose of it properly and replace it with fresh fuel.

What is Fuel Degradation?

Fuel degradation is a natural process that occurs when petroleum-based fuels are exposed to environmental factors such as heat, light, oxygen, moisture, and microbial activity. This process causes a breakdown of the chemical composition of the fuel and can lead to changes in its physical and chemical properties, which can affect its performance and usability.

The extent and speed of fuel degradation depend on several factors, including the type of fuel, storage conditions, and the presence of stabilizers or contaminants. Common forms of fuel degradation include oxidation, hydrolysis, and microbial growth, all of which can have negative impacts on the fuel.

Oxidation occurs when fuel is exposed to oxygen, causing the hydrocarbons in the fuel to break down and form gum and varnish deposits. These deposits can clog fuel lines, injectors, and filters, reducing the fuel's quality and performance.

Hydrolysis is caused by exposure to moisture, which reacts with the hydrocarbons in the fuel to create acidic compounds. These compounds can corrode fuel system components and degrade the fuel's quality.

Microbial growth occurs when fuel is exposed to moisture, providing a breeding ground for microorganisms such as bacteria and fungi. These microorganisms can cause the fuel to break down, resulting in slime and sediment formation.

Fuel degradation can lead to reduced fuel quality, lower octane ratings, and decreased engine and equipment performance. To minimize fuel degradation, it's important to store fuel in clean, dry, and sealed containers or tanks, away from direct sunlight, heat, and sources of ignition. The use of fuel stabilizers or periodic fuel system maintenance can help prevent or slow down the degradation process.

If you're concerned about fuel degradation, it's important to monitor your stored fuel regularly for signs of deterioration, including changes in color, odor, and sediment levels. If you suspect your fuel has degraded, dispose of it properly and replace it with fresh fuel.

By storing fuel correctly, using fuel stabilizers, and performing periodic fuel system maintenance, you can help prevent or slow down the degradation process and maintain the quality and performance of your fuel.

Laws, Rules, and Regulations

Laws and regulations around fuel storage can vary depending on the jurisdiction, but they're designed to protect public health, safety, and the environment. In the United States, federal, state, and local authorities have established rules and standards for storing, handling, and transporting fuels.

One of the key federal regulatory bodies related to fuel storage is the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), which has established the Spill Prevention, Control, and Countermeasure (SPCC) rule. This rule requires facilities to develop and implement a spill prevention plan to prevent oil spills and to have appropriate response procedures in place.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is another federal agency that has established several standards related to fuel storage, including regulations on hazardous materials, flammable liquids, and compressed gases. These standards require employers to follow specific requirements for handling, storage, and use of fuels to ensure employee safety.

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has also developed several codes and standards related to fuel storage. One example is NFPA 30: Flammable and Combustible Liquids Code, which provides requirements for the storage, handling, and use of fuels.

In addition to federal regulations, many states have additional requirements related to fuel storage and handling. For example, California has established regulations under the Underground Storage Tank (UST) Program, which require owners and operators of USTs to register their tanks, follow specific leak prevention measures, and maintain financial responsibility for any releases from their tanks.

It's important to note that regulations can change over time, and the specific laws and regulations around fuel storage can vary depending on the jurisdiction. Therefore, it's important to consult with local authorities or regulatory agencies for the most up-to-date information.

If you're planning to store fuel, it's essential to follow all applicable regulations to prevent accidents, protect the environment, and avoid potential fines or penalties. By staying informed about the latest regulations and guidelines, you can ensure that your fuel storage and handling practices are in compliance with applicable laws.

Fuel Polishing

Fuel polishing is an essential process for maintaining the quality of stored fuel, such as gasoline or diesel, and ensuring that it stays fresh over time. With fuel polishing, you can remove impurities and contaminants that can accumulate in stored fuel, improve fuel efficiency, and extend the lifespan of fuel storage tanks and equipment.

How Does Fuel Polishing Work?

Over time, stored fuel can accumulate contaminants such as water, dirt, and microbial growth, which can clog filters, corrode tanks, and cause engine failure or result in downtime.

With fuel polishing, fuel is transferred from the storage tank where it passes through a filtration system.

The filtration process typically involves several steps, including:

• Fuel is extracted from the tank and ran through a polishing system
• Fuel is then filtered through a series of filters with different micron ratings to remove progressively smaller particles
• Additives are often added to the fuel to prevent microbial growth
• Fuel is tested to ensure it meets fuel quality standards

Fuel polishing can be performed manually or using automated equipment, depending on the size and complexity of the fuel storage system. In either case, it is important to select the right filtration solution for your fuel storage systems and follow proper safety procedures and regulations to ensure that the fuel is handled safely.

By following proper fuel storage and maintenance procedures, including regular fuel polishing, you can ensure that your stored fuel is ready for use when you need it, and prevent costly repairs and downtime caused by engine failure or performance issues.

What Do Building Automation Systems Do?

The world is becoming increasingly interconnected thanks to the internet of things and rapidly-growing automation technology.

This is no different when it comes to buildings, which can now be automated to create a more efficient, comfortable, and safe environment.

Building automation systems, also known as building management systems, are a critical aspect of modern building design and operation. These systems are designed to automate and control various aspects of a building’s operations, including heating and cooling, lighting, security, product manufacturing, and more.

One of the key benefits of building automation systems is their ability to improve energy efficiency.

By automating the control of heating, cooling, and lighting systems, buildings can reduce their energy consumption and save money on utility bills. Through using economically viable and commercially available technologies, the energy footprint of facilities can be reduced using significantly.

These systems are designed to make life easier by automating basic tasks such as turning off lights when no one is in a room or adjusting temperature based on occupancy.

For example, a building automation system may be able to automatically adjust the temperature of a building based on occupancy levels or the time of day, ensuring that the building is not heated or cooled unnecessarily.

Another important benefit of these systems is their ability to improve the comfort and safety of building occupants.

They are also used to control the lighting levels in a building, ensuring that they are always at an appropriate level for the time of day and utility of the space.

Additionally, building automation systems can be used to monitor security systems and alert building occupants and authorities in the event of an emergency.

Emergency standby power systems are also integrated within the building automation system, automatically transferring power to backup systems in the event of an emergency.

Components of a Building Automation System

Building automation systems consists of controllers, sensors, actuators, and communication protocols that enable the system to interact with the different systems in the building.

The controllers are responsible for monitoring the different systems and managing their operation, and can be programmed to respond to certain conditions or commands. The sensors are used to measure various conditions in the building, such as temperature, humidity, pressure, and monitor other key metrics. The actuators are used to activate the different systems, such as HVAC, lighting, security systems, and more. Finally, the communication protocols enable the systems within the facility to communicate with each other and control their operation.

A modern building automation system will offer continuous monitoring, data collection, and analysis. The most advanced building automation systems will leverage machine learning algorithms to optimize a facility's operational efficiency.

Various equipment used in modern facilities can also integrate into the overall building management systems. These will report important data points to the system allowing the user to monitor many pieces of different equipment from a centralized dashboard where they can oversee the performance of all monitored equipment within the facility. 

There are several different types of building management systems available, each of which is designed to control a specific aspect of a building’s operations. Some of the most common types of building automation systems include:

• HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) systems: These systems are used to control the temperature and air quality within a building.
• Lighting control systems: These systems are used to control the lighting levels in a building, including the brightness and color of the lights.
• Security systems: These systems are used to monitor and control access to a building, as well as to alert building occupants and authorities in the event of an emergency.
• Fire safety systems: These systems are used to monitor and control the fire safety systems in a building, including fire alarms and sprinkler systems.
• Emergency and Standby Power Systems: These systems are able to monitor for lapses in the power supply and automate power transfer to backup systems, reducing facility downtime and keeping critical equipment and services online.

There are a variety of communication protocols that are used in building automation to facilitate communication between different devices and systems.

Building Automation Systems Communication Protocols

One of the most widely used protocols in building automation is BACnet (Building Automation and Control Network). BACnet is an open standard protocol that was developed by the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) and the International Organization for Standardization (ISO).

It is designed to allow different building automation systems to communicate with one another seamlessly, regardless of the manufacturer.

Another commonly used protocol in building automation is Modbus. Modbus is an open and simple protocol that is used to communicate with various types of devices, including controllers, sensors, and actuators. It was first developed in 1979 and is widely used in a variety of industrial applications, including building automation.

A third protocol that is commonly used in building automation is Zigbee. Zigbee is a wireless protocol that is based on the IEEE 802.15.4 standard. It is designed for low-power, low-data rate applications, such as monitoring and controlling lighting, HVAC, and other systems within a building. Zigbee is an open standard that is supported by a number of different manufacturers, and is often used in smaller buildings and facilities.

KNX is a standard protocol for building control systems that is developed and maintained by the KNX Association. It is an open standard, and is used for lighting, shading, HVAC, access control, and other building automation applications.

Lastly, one protocol that is gaining in popularity in building automation is MQTT (Message Queue Telemetry Transport). MQTT is a lightweight, publish-subscribe protocol that is designed for use in low-bandwidth, high-latency networks. MQTT is often used in combination with other protocols, such as BACnet, to provide additional functionality.

How Automation Systems Improve Building Safety and Efficiency

Facilities that benefit from the use of building management and automation systems include hospitals, data centers, municipality and government buildings, and many more. 

One of the main benefits of a building management control system is its ability to optimize the operation of building systems to save energy and reduce operating costs.

This can lead to significant energy savings, especially in buildings that are unoccupied for long periods of time, such as schools and office buildings.

In addition to energy savings, building management systems can also improve the comfort of building occupants.

For example, an automation system can be programmed to maintain a consistent temperature and humidity level in a building, which can help to reduce the risk of illness and increase productivity. 

These systems can also improve the safety of a building by monitoring various systems and alert facility management of any potential issues.

For example, an automation system can detect system malfunctions and alert maintenance staff to address the problem before it becomes a larger issue.

The Future of Smart Buildings and Automation Systems

The future of building automation systems is bright. As technology becomes more advanced, building automation systems will become more sophisticated and capable of providing a range of different benefits.

Guidehouse Insights estimate the global market for building automation and controls to grow to over $48 billion by 2031.

Overall, building management control systems can provide numerous benefits to industries by helping to reduce operating costs, improve comfort and safety, and increase the efficiency of building systems.

These systems are an important tool for building managers and facility managers to ensure the smooth and efficient operation of their buildings.

As these technologies grow, automation accessibility will follow suit as more consumer retail and residential buildings will use automation to increase both ease of life and efficiency.

The integration of building automation systems with other technologies, such as the Internet of Things (IoT) and smart building systems, can further enhance the capabilities of these systems.

For example, integrating a building automation system with an IoT platform can enable the collection and analysis of data from a wide range of building systems and devices, allowing for more efficient and effective building management.

Overall, building automation systems play a crucial role in the operation and management of buildings. These systems can provide numerous benefits, improve facility security, include energy savings, improve comfort and safety, and increase the overall efficiency of building systems.

Building managers and facility managers can use these systems to ensure the smooth and efficient operation of their building, ultimately leading to a better experience for building occupants.

What is the NFPA?

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) is a non-profit organization that works across the country to promote fire and life safety. The NFPA does this by developing and publishing codes and standards that are used throughout the United States to help prevent and mitigate the effects of fires.

Founded in 1896, the NFPA has since grown to become one of the leading organizations in the field of fire safety. The NFPA's codes and standards play a big part in actively promoting fire safety for a wide range of industries.

The NFPA’s codes and standards are developed through a consensus-based process that involves input from a wide range of stakeholders, including members of the public, industry experts, and government officials.

Through this process, the NFPA ensures that the codes and standards they publish reflect the latest research and best practices.

The NFPA offers a number of different codes and standards that cover a wide range of topics related to fire safety, including fire prevention, fire protection, and emergency response.

Some of the most commonly-known codes developed by the NFPA include the National Electrical Code, the Life Safety Code, and the National Fire Codes. These codes and standards are widely used by fire safety professionals, building code officials, construction contractors, and others to help ensure the safety of buildings and other structures.

In addition to developing codes and standards, the NFPA also provides a number of other services and resources to support fire safety.

These include training and education programs, technical support, and research and development. The NFPA also works with a network of partners and affiliates around the world to promote fire and life safety on a global scale.

What is NFPA 110?

NFPA 110, also known as the Standard for Emergency and Standby Power Systems, is a document published by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) that provides guidelines and requirements for the proper installation and maintenance of emergency and standby power systems.

These systems are essential for ensuring the safety and functionality of critical infrastructure, such as hospitals, airports, and data centers, in the event of a power outage or other emergency.

These power systems include equipment such as generator sets, circuit breaker, transfer switches, control panels, remote equipment, and more.

Emergency power systems are designed to provide temporary power to a facility during an outage or other emergency situation, while standby power systems are intended to provide a continuous source of power in the event of a primary power loss.

Both types of systems are essential for ensuring the safety and functionality of critical infrastructure, as well as protecting the people and property within those facilities.

According to NFPA 110, all emergency and standby power systems must be properly sized and installed to meet the specific needs of the facility where they are being used. This includes taking into account the potential load on the system, as well as the duration and frequency of power outages in the area.

In addition, the standard requires that these systems be tested regularly to ensure they are functioning properly and can provide the necessary power when needed.

NFPA 110 is updated every three years, with the latest revisions being published in 2022. These frequent updates keep the standards up-to-date and reflecting the latest technologies used in emergency and standby power systems.

The Importance of Maintenance and Regular Testing

One of the key components of NFPA 110 is the requirement for regular maintenance and testing of emergency and standby power systems.

This includes periodic inspections and annual testing of the system itself, regular maintenance of the equipment that make up the system, as well as the proper handling and storage of fuel for these systems.

This is essential for ensuring that the system is able to provide power when needed, as well as for identifying and addressing any potential issues before they become major problems.

Fuel testing is an important part of ensuring the smooth operation of mission critical facilities. These facilities rely on a steady supply of fuel to power their critical systems and keep them running.

Without regular fuel testing, it is difficult to know if the fuel being used is of the right quality and composition, and this can lead to a number of problems.

Over time, fuel can degrade and lose some of its key properties, such as its ability to burn cleanly and efficiently. This can lead to reduced power output, increased emissions, and damage to critical equipment.

Critical component damage can render the system inoperable, which can seriously impact the facilities relying on these emergency power systems.

By regularly testing the fuel, it is possible to detect and remove any contaminants before they cause any problems, helping to ensure that the facility can continue to operate at peak efficiency.

Maintaining Mission Critical Reliability

The importance of NFPA 110 lies in its ability to help protect against the potential dangers of power outages and other emergency situations.

In a hospital, for example, the loss of power could have serious consequences for patients who rely on life-support equipment. In a data center, a power outage could cause the loss of valuable data and disrupt critical operations.

By setting minimum requirements for the design, installation, maintenance, and testing of emergency and standby power systems, NFPA 110 helps to ensure that these systems are reliable and capable of providing power when needed.

Overall, NFPA is a crucial standard for ensuring the reliability and safety of emergency and standby power systems.

By following the requirements of the standard, facilities can protect critical equipment and maintain essential services in the event of a power outage or other emergency.

What is Diesel Fuel?

Refined from crude oil, diesel fuel is what we call the distillate fuel oil used in some internal combustion engines. Invented by Dr. Rudolf Diesel, the first diesel engines were made in the 1890’s.

In today’s global economy, diesel fuel is used in most heavy equipment applications including tractor trailers, delivery trucks, construction equipment, and buses. Diesel is also used in some pedestrian vehicles such as cars and light trucks. 

Diesel-engine generators are used to power remote off-grid sites as well as industrial facilities.  These diesel generators are used around the world as a backup emergency power supply for hospitals, government facilities, data centers, and other critical facilities. 

How is Diesel Fuel Made?

Diesel oil is refined from crude oil at petroleum refineries. Refineries were first modernized in the 1850’s by Ignacy Luksiewicz, who used the refined products for kerosene lamps, asphalt, oil, and lubricants. 

Diesel is made of hydrocarbons that are derived from petroleum. There are three major classes that petroleum crude oils are composed of: paraffinic hydrocarbons, naphthenic hydrocarbons, and aromatic hydrocarbons. 

Crude oil can be observed in many forms, depending on the density. Low density oils are thin and light-colored, and are also known as high-gravity crude oils. High density oils are very thick and viscous and appear similar to tar, making them low-gravity crude oils.

How is Diesel Fuel Refined?

All hydrocarbon-based fuels originate from crude oil which is put through a refinement process called distillation This process will yield various types of fuels ranging from heavy fuel oil to diesel and gasoline.

During the refinement process, crude oil will enter a distillation tower and be boiled to create vapors. These vapors will condense and settle on different trays at different levels. Lighter molecules will settle on higher trays while the heavier ones will reside towards the bottom. The vertical placement of each tray will determine what type of fuel is being collected.

For each 42-Gallon barrel of U.S. crude oil, refineries produce around 11 to 12 gallons of diesel fuel. 

Diesel engines are considered to be more fuel-efficient and have more low-end torque than gasoline alternatives. This is why diesel-powered vehicles can go up to 35% farther on a single gallon of fuel when compared to gasoline engines.

What are the Differences Between Diesel Fuels?

Diesel #1

#1 Diesel is often considered a premium fuel, because of its added property benefits. This includes added lubricants that keep engine components from experiencing excessive wear, keeping diesel engines running smoothly for longer periods of time. 

Detergents are also added to Diesel #1 before it is delivered to the pump. While the engine is running, the detergents will help clean injectors and other critical fuel system components. This also helps maintain engine power and fuel efficiency.  

Diesel #1 has also become the preferred fuel choice as a winter diesel solution because of its low viscosity. This means that the fuel is less likely to gel in extremely cold climates because of the absence of paraffin wax.

Diesel #2

#2 Diesel is also known as “standard” diesel fuel and is commonly available in most refueling stations. Creating #2 diesel does not require as much refinement as #1, making it the less costly of the two. #2 diesel also contains more energy density per gallon of fuel, which means diesel engines will get more power from #2 diesel compared to #1 diesel.

Ultra Low Sulfur Diesel was developed to reduce harmful emissions from diesel powered engines used on public roadways. Starting with the Clean Air Act in 1990, the EPA mandated sulfur content limits to reduce the impacts diesel engine emissions have on public health and the environment. Since December 2010, all highway diesel fuel in the USA has been ULSD.

Off-Road Diesel

Off-road diesel, also known as AG diesel or “red” diesel, has no chemical difference when compared to the #2 diesel you’d typically find at the pump. The difference in off-road diesel is that it has been dyed red to indicate that the fuel was not distributed for on-road use .

Off-road diesel is sold for use in equipment and vehicles that are not operated on public roadways, and are most used to supply fuel to emergency stand-by generators, farm equipment, and construction equipment.

Clear diesel, which is another name for on-road diesels like #1 and #2 is subject to additional taxes because of its on-road use. By dyeing off-road diesel red, it is an easy way to indicate which type of diesel fuel it is under inspection.

Off-road diesel is much cheaper to purchase because it isn’t subject to the same taxes as on-road diesel. Because of this, there are heavy penalties for improperly using off-road diesel.

Biodiesel

Biodiesel has grown in popularity in recent years as the world moves toward green energy solutions.

Biodiesel is recognized as a renewable fuel derived from animal fats and plant oils and is considered a cleaner alternative to #2 diesel made from the petroleum refinement process.

Biodiesel is compatible with almost all modern diesel engines, and there are also bio-blends available (which contain a percentage of petroleum diesel) for other engine applications.

How Does Diesel Compare?

Diesel fuel has been an important contributor of industrial growth around the world. Through utilizing this dynamic energy source, we have developed mass transit systems, backup power solutions, global import/export networks, and more. 

Benefits of Using Diesel Fuel

The benefits of utilizing diesel fuel to help shape our world have been countless, however there are a number of advantages and disadvantages that should be mentioned. 

Engines powered by diesel fuel are known to get considerably better fuel economy when compared to gasoline engines. Diesel is also much more dense in energy when compared to other petroleum fuels.

Diesel fuels also provide more low-end torque making it much better suited to power heavy equipment such as tractor trailers.

Rising Costs of Diesel Fuel

Unfortunately, diesel fuel also has some disadvantages. For instance, diesel fuel costs have outpaced gasoline over the last year. Compared to last year, on-highway diesel fuel prices have grown by over 35% compared to gasoline which increased by just over 9% during the same period.

In August of 2022, the Bureau of Transportation Statistics reported a staggering rise in diesel costs, with consumer costs increasing 55% from January to June of 2022. This price inflation has slimmed the margins and nearly erases the cost advantage of using diesel in some circumstances.

Contamination in Diesel Fuel

Diesel fuel, especially in bulk storage applications, is also susceptible to microbial contamination which leads to the degradation of fuel.

Diesel fuel contamination can be tricky to resolve, especially if the problem isn’t caught early. If not caught early, diesel fuel contamination can wreak havoc on engines and jeopardizes the operability of critical equipment.

To mitigate diesel fuel contamination issues, it is recommended that diesel fuel be tested often for contamination, as well as be regularly polished to maintain the desired quality of the fuel.

The National Fire Protection Association recognizes the importance of regular fuel quality testing. The NFPA 110 "Standard for Emergency and Standby Power Systems" requires annual fuel testing to ensure bulk fuel is suitable for long term storage.

There are many ways to test for diesel fuel contamination. Please check out our guide on testing for diesel fuel contamination to learn how to test accurately.

As the world pushes closer towards carbon-neutral, net zero, and sustainable energy solutions, numerous new energy sources are being tested to see if they can meet the same demands that fossil fuels have proven they can uphold.

A 2019 study by the International Energy Agency projected the HVO industry to grow considerably by 2024, from producing over 1.4 billion gallons of HVO in 2018 to over 34 billion gallons in 2024.

What is HVO Fuel?

Hydrotreated vegetable oil, known as HVO, is a renewable diesel alternative that is made by reacting vegetable oils (such as sunflower, soybean or palm oils) or animal fats with hydrogen at high temperature and pressure. HVO is a parafinic bio-based liquid fuel created through hydrogenation or hydrocracking that is made through waste materials that are rich in triglycerides like cooking oil and animal fat.

Much of the literature available on HVO compares this fuel in relation to other biodiesels, but these comparisons do not give much insight on how HVO performs in comparison to the much more widely-used #2 diesel. According to the data, HVO carries a lot of positive qualities that make it much more attractive to use in comparison to biodiesel.

What the available literature often fails to recognize is that HVO fuel is not able to eliminate many of the contamination problems that exist with the use and storage of #2 diesel fuel. Switching to HVO does not simply eliminate the problems that come with managing the equivalent fossil fuels.

Currently, biodiesels such as HVO are most commonly used in Europe, with biodiesels making up for nearly 80% of total European biofuel consumption.

HVO Fuel Benefits

Officially certified by the International Sustainability and Carbon Certification, HVO is recognized as a sustainable fuel that offers greenhouse gas reductions and is also non-toxic and non-carcinogenic.

HVO can be used with conventional diesel engines, and is seen as a substitute for petrodiesels. HVO is different from biodiesel because it is not created through the esterification process.

Depending on the feedstock being used in HVO production, CO2 emission reductions of up to 90% can be realized. With optimized fuel injection, NOx emissions of up to 18% can be seen, while also realizing fuel consumption savings of 4.3%.

HVO contains few impurities, thus it burns very cleanly. It does not contain FAME, or fatty acid methyl esters. It has a naturally high cetane number, which means it is easy to ignite and combustion is thorough– reducing smoke and particulate matter emissions.

Because HVO has a higher cetane number than diesel, while also possessing a lower density, its combustion results in a significant reduction in particulate matter emissions.

Unlike other alternative fuels, HVO is ready to be used in modern diesel equipment without any re-engineering of mechanical components. HVO also carries a much longer shelf life compared to regular #2 diesel, where with proper storage and fuel maintenance HVO can last up to ten years in storage.

Because HVO fuel does not contain FAME, the fuel can also withstand weather as cold as -32* Celsius as HVO fuel does not experience waxing in the same way as #2 diesel and other biodiesel fuels.

HVO Fuel Being Used Around the World

Because of the numerous benefits, a handful of multinational companies have made efforts to bring the emissions benefits of HVO to the foreground.

In February of 2022, Audi, the German automotive manufacturer, announced that its lineup of V6 diesel engines in Europe have been approved to run on HVO fuel. Audi also announced that more of its model lineup would become HVO-ready through 2022.

International engineering and construction company, Laing O’Rourke, who is known for completing major projects such as Atlantis in Dubai, switched all plant equipment from diesel to HVO in January of 2022.

This decision was made after 6 months of testing by consultants, and resulted in equipment such as excavators, piling rigs, cranes, dump trucks, and more switching to operating on this fuel as a sustainability effort.

In 2021, oil supplier Mitchell & Webber trialed HVO as an energy source for home heating in the UK and touted the project as a "huge and much-needed step in the right direction for lowering carbon emissions across the country."

However, major companies promoting the use of HVO isn’t just a recent trend. In 2016, Volvo Penta approved the use of HVO with all of its off-road diesel engines.

HVO Fuel Challenges

One of the biggest issues with adopting HVO at scale is availability. Current HVO supply is extremely limited, and there isn’t enough land being farmed for HVO specifically to meet the global demands should industries around the world demand a switch to this fuel.

HVO is considered a second-generation biofuel, meaning that the fuel is manufactured with the waste of crops rather than having to use the crop itself. The problem with HVO is that crop waste just wouldn't be enough to meet the energy demands of the entire world.

If more farmland is being used just for producing HVO, it will certainly have negative impacts on the food supply chain. 

The other leading issue with HVO is an issue of contamination and fuel integrity.

Although HVO doesn’t absorb water itself, stored HVO is still susceptible to the same microbial and water issues as seen in stored #2 diesel.

Fuel storage tank condensation will still result in free water being introduced into the fuel tank, however it does not become emulsified with the HVO fuel. Instead, the free water that is in the tank will phase separate and form a layer of water that rests beneath the fuel.

HVO Fuel Management and Maintenance

As outlined in the Neste Renewable Diesel handbook, HVO fuel carries a risk of microbial growth that is similar to that of fossil diesel fuel.

Neste recommends that “good maintenance, cleaning and dewatering of containers and tanks regularly is essential to avoid contaminations” and suggests that “microbial growth may cause issues with long storage periods”.

If free water is not removed from the tank, microbial growth will proliferate in the same ways it does as in fossil diesel fuel.

Because of this, it remains equally important to implement fuel maintenance and polishing equipment into your fuel management routine  to mitigate the risks that come with storing fuel.

AXI International’s line of fuel management and maintenance equipment are fully prepared to provide solutions for HVO fuel.

AXI provides fuel polishing equipment to actively remove water from bulk fuel supplies, as well as fuel transfer equipment to move fuel between day tanks and demanding equipment. 

As the global economy moves towards sustainable energy solutions, it can be anticipated that fuels such as HVO may inevitably become the international energy standard.

But to achieve this, there are big logistical roadblocks that need to be remedied before these specialized fuels are prepared to meet the energy demands of the masses.

Is HVO just another energy trend that will fade as innovation introduces more practical solutions or will HVO be around for the long haul as a renewable energy source? At this time, it's hard to say.

Regardless of which sustainable energy source the world pivots to, there will always be questions around fuel management and big hurdles that come with preparing these biofuels for mass adoption.