DIESEL

What is the new Sulphur content in Diesel?

Two grades of diesel are available, as was always the case. These include a standard grade available nationally of 500 ppm (parts per million) maximum sulphur content, as well as a niche grade lower sulphur diesel of 50 ppm maximum sulphur.

Does the new spec diesel affect maintenance cost and oil change intervals?

Motor manufacturers have indicated that the lowering of sulphur content allows many vehicles to extend their oil drain intervals, which reduce maintenance costs.

Why was sulphur reduced in diesel?

Compounds containing sulphur occur naturally in diesel. The reason for reducing sulphur from 3 000 ppm to 500 ppm was to reduce vehicle emissions and thus improve urban air quality. However, if a vehicle is poorly maintained, noxious gases and particulates will still be emitted regardless of the improved fuel quality.

Does this affect Engen's Dynamic Diesel?

The sulphur content in Engen's Dynamic Diesel complies with legislated requirements, and will continue to do so by reducing the sulphur content by 2 500 parts per million (from 3000 to 500 ppm, a six-fold reduction).

Has lubricity been affected?

Certain hydrocarbon compounds (polar and aromatic compounds) present in diesel fuel have a natural lubricating effect on fuel pumps and fuel injectors. When they are removed during the fuel desulphurisation process the lubricity of the fuel is reduced. Therefore, lubricity additives are used in the 500 and 50 ppm sulphur diesel grades to ensure that the specified lubricity levels are maintained.

What was the cost involved? Why more?

The lower sulphur diesel grades cost more than the 3000 ppm grade which was replaced, in line with international market prices.

For more information please use the following Engen sources:

Customer Call Centre: 08600 36436

Technical Advice
Tel: 0860036436 press 3
Email: 1call@engenoil.com