Questions Answered

Q: What are asphaltenes? 06/05/2011

 A:  Asphaltenes are tarry particles that occur naturally in #2 diesel fuel. They are made up of primarily of hydrogen, carbon, nitrogen, oxygen, and sulfur. Asphaltenes have been shown to have a distribution of molecular masses in the range of 400 u to 1500 u with an average around 750 u. Concentrations of asphaltenes in diesel fuel vary widely and we tend to see large increases in regions where the average temperature is above 70 degrees.

Q: What is the Diesel Cetane Number? 07/05/2011

A: Cetane number is the measure of how readily diesel fuel starts to burn in a diesel engine. Diesel with a high cetane number starts to burn more quickly than a diesel fuel with a low cetane number. Cetane number was based on a single cyclinder engine and  cetane could be different in the more modern diesel fuel engines.

Q: How much additive should I add to my fuel? 07/27/2011

A:  This depends on what type of fuel it is and the issue you are trying to correct. There are many additives marketed to consumers. They do everything from clean injectors to prevent particles from sticking. In our experience we highly suggest consulting one of our experienced fuel consultants to determine the best course of action.