Tag Archives: fuel system cleaning

How to test cetane in diesel?

August 14, 2025 Alex Leave a comment

Quick Answer

Cetane testing uses standardized laboratory methods including ASTM D613 (engine method) and ASTM D6890 (ignition quality tester method). The engine method uses a single-cylinder test engine under controlled conditions. The IQT method uses a constant volume combustion chamber comparing fuel ignition characteristics against reference standards.

Expanded Answer (Simplified)

Testing cetane in diesel fuel requires specialized laboratory equipment and follows strict standardized procedures to ensure accurate and repeatable results. The most common method uses a special single-cylinder test engine that’s designed specifically for measuring fuel ignition quality under controlled conditions.

The engine method involves running the test fuel in this special engine and comparing its ignition characteristics to known reference fuels with established cetane numbers. By adjusting the engine conditions and comparing performance, technicians can determine the exact cetane number of the test fuel.

A newer, faster method uses an Ignition Quality Tester (IQT), which doesn’t require a running engine. Instead, it uses a small combustion chamber where fuel is injected and ignited under controlled pressure and temperature conditions. This method gives results much faster than the engine method and is becoming increasingly popular for routine testing.

Expanded Answer (Technical)

Cetane testing employs standardized methodologies utilizing either engine-based testing systems or laboratory instruments designed to simulate compression ignition conditions while providing accurate, repeatable measurements of fuel ignition quality characteristics.

ASTM D613 Engine Method

The Cooperative Fuel Research (CFR) engine method represents the primary reference standard for cetane number determination, utilizing a single-cylinder variable compression ratio engine under strictly controlled operating conditions.

Engine specifications: Single-cylinder, variable compression ratio, standardized dimensions
Operating conditions: 900 RPM, controlled intake air and coolant temperatures
Reference fuels: Primary (cetane/HMN) and secondary reference fuel blends
Measurement procedure: Ignition delay comparison through injection timing adjustment

ASTM D6890 Ignition Quality Tester Method

The IQT method provides rapid cetane assessment through constant volume combustion chamber testing, offering faster results while maintaining correlation with engine-based measurements.

Chamber design: Constant volume combustion chamber with controlled atmosphere
Test conditions: Standardized pressure, temperature, and injection parameters
Ignition detection: Pressure rise measurement for ignition delay determination
Correlation factors: Mathematical relationships to convert IQT results to cetane numbers

ASTM D7170 Derived Cetane Number

The DCN method calculates cetane numbers from detailed fuel composition analysis, providing estimates based on hydrocarbon component analysis and established correlation relationships.

Composition analysis: Gas chromatography for detailed hydrocarbon identification
Calculation methodology: Weighted average based on individual component cetane contributions
Accuracy limitations: Estimates only, not suitable for specification compliance
Application scope: Fuel development and quality control screening applications

Quality Assurance and Calibration

Accurate cetane testing requires systematic quality assurance programs including regular calibration with certified reference materials and participation in interlaboratory comparison programs to ensure measurement accuracy and consistency.

Read the full article.

Cetane/2-EHN

How to calculate cetane number of biodiesel?

August 14, 2025 Alex Leave a comment

Quick Answer

Biodiesel cetane numbers can be calculated using ASTM D6751 methods or estimated from fatty acid composition. The calculation considers individual fatty acid cetane contributions weighted by their concentrations. Saturated fatty acids generally provide higher cetane numbers than unsaturated ones. Professional testing using ASTM D613 or D6890 provides most accurate results.

Expanded Answer (Simplified)

Calculating the cetane number of biodiesel is more complex than regular diesel because biodiesel is made from different types of fats and oils, each with different ignition characteristics. The most accurate way is to have it tested professionally using the same methods used for regular diesel fuel.

However, you can estimate the cetane number if you know what the biodiesel is made from. Different fatty acids (the building blocks of fats and oils) have different cetane numbers. Saturated fats like those from animal fats or palm oil typically give higher cetane numbers, while unsaturated fats from vegetable oils like soybean or canola give lower cetane numbers.

The calculation involves looking at the percentage of each type of fatty acid in your biodiesel and multiplying each by its known cetane contribution, then adding them all up. While this gives you a reasonable estimate, professional testing is still the most reliable way to get an accurate cetane number for biodiesel.

Expanded Answer (Technical)

Biodiesel cetane number calculation requires analysis of fatty acid methyl ester (FAME) composition and application of established correlation equations that account for the cetane contributions of individual fatty acid components and their relative concentrations.

Fatty Acid Cetane Contribution Analysis

Individual fatty acid methyl esters demonstrate distinct cetane number characteristics based on chain length, saturation level, and molecular structure, requiring systematic analysis for accurate biodiesel cetane prediction.

Saturated fatty acids: Higher cetane numbers (palmitic acid ~85, stearic acid ~100)
Monounsaturated fatty acids: Moderate cetane numbers (oleic acid ~60)
Polyunsaturated fatty acids: Lower cetane numbers (linoleic acid ~40, linolenic acid ~20)
Chain length effects: Longer chain fatty acids generally provide higher cetane numbers

Calculation Methodologies

Biodiesel cetane number calculation employs weighted average approaches based on fatty acid composition analysis and established cetane contribution factors for individual FAME components.

Weighted average method: CN = Σ(Xi × CNi) where Xi = mole fraction, CNi = component cetane number
ASTM D6751 approach: Standardized calculation methodology for biodiesel specifications
Empirical correlations: Regression equations based on composition-cetane relationships
Iodine value correlation: Simplified estimation based on overall saturation level

Composition Analysis Requirements

Accurate cetane calculation requires detailed fatty acid composition analysis through gas chromatography or other analytical methods to determine individual FAME concentrations and molecular structures.

Gas chromatography: ASTM D6584 method for FAME composition analysis
Fatty acid identification: Individual component identification and quantification
Concentration determination: Accurate measurement of relative FAME percentages
Quality assurance: Analytical precision requirements for reliable cetane prediction

Validation and Verification

Calculated biodiesel cetane numbers require validation through direct testing using ASTM D613 or D6890 methods to confirm accuracy and account for potential interactions between different FAME components.

Read the full article.

Cetane/2-EHN

How to increase the cetane number of diesel?

August 14, 2025 Alex Leave a comment

Quick Answer

The cetane number of diesel can be increased by adding cetane improver additives like 2-ethylhexyl nitrate (2-EHN), ditertiary butyl peroxide, or commercial cetane boosters. Typical dosage rates range from 0.1% to 0.5% by volume. Blending with higher cetane base fuels or biodiesel also increases overall cetane rating.

Expanded Answer (Simplified)

There are several practical ways to increase the cetane number of diesel fuel, with the most common being the use of commercial cetane booster additives. These products are readily available and designed for easy use – you simply add the recommended amount to your fuel tank before filling up.

The most effective method is using proven chemical additives like 2-EHN (2-ethylhexyl nitrate), which is the industry standard for cetane improvement. Commercial cetane boosters containing this compound can increase cetane numbers by 2-8 points, depending on the base fuel quality and dosage used.

Another approach is blending diesel with higher-cetane fuels. Biodiesel, for example, typically has cetane numbers of 50-65, so adding even small amounts can boost the overall cetane rating. Some fuel suppliers also offer premium diesel grades with naturally higher cetane numbers, though these cost more than standard diesel.

Expanded Answer (Technical)

Cetane number enhancement can be achieved through multiple methodologies including chemical additive treatment, fuel blending strategies, and base fuel optimization, each offering specific advantages and limitations for different applications and operational requirements.

Chemical Additive Methods

Chemical cetane improvers represent the most practical and widely used approach for cetane enhancement, offering precise control over cetane number increases and compatibility with existing fuel infrastructure.

2-EHN (2-ethylhexyl nitrate): Industry standard providing 2-8 cetane point increase
Ditertiary butyl peroxide (DTBP): Alternative improver with different performance characteristics
Alkyl nitrates: Various organic nitrate compounds for cetane enhancement
Treat rates: Typically 0.1-0.5% by volume for optimal effectiveness

Fuel Blending Strategies

Blending approaches involve combining diesel with higher-cetane components to achieve desired cetane numbers while maintaining fuel specification compliance and performance characteristics.

Biodiesel blending: B5-B20 blends increasing cetane by 1-5 points
High-cetane base stocks: Blending with premium diesel components
Synthetic fuel components: Fischer-Tropsch diesel with cetane numbers 70+
Hydroprocessed fuels: Refined products with enhanced cetane characteristics

Refinery Process Optimization

Upstream approaches involve modifying refinery processes and feedstock selection to produce diesel with inherently higher cetane numbers, though these require significant infrastructure investment.

Hydrocracking optimization: Process conditions favoring high-cetane components
Feedstock selection: Crude oils producing naturally high-cetane diesel fractions
Catalytic processes: Advanced catalysts promoting cetane-enhancing reactions
Distillation optimization: Fractionation strategies for cetane improvement

Quality Control and Verification

Effective cetane enhancement requires systematic quality control including testing, verification, and compliance with fuel specifications to ensure consistent performance and regulatory compliance.

Read the full article.

Cetane/2-EHN

How to boost cetane in diesel?

August 14, 2025 Alex Leave a comment

Quick Answer

Boost cetane in diesel by adding commercial cetane improver additives at recommended concentrations, typically 1-5ml per litre of fuel. Use products containing 2-EHN or other proven cetane enhancers. Ensure proper mixing by adding the booster before fueling and choose reputable brands following manufacturer dosage instructions.

Expanded Answer (Simplified)

Boosting cetane in diesel is a straightforward process that can significantly improve your engine’s performance. The most effective method is using commercial cetane booster products that are specifically designed for this purpose. These products are available at auto parts stores, truck stops, and online retailers.

The key to success is proper application. Add the cetane booster to your fuel tank before filling up with diesel – this ensures thorough mixing as the fuel flows into the tank. Most products recommend treating rates of 1-5ml per litre of fuel, but always follow the specific instructions on the product label.

Choose quality products from reputable manufacturers, as these have been tested for effectiveness and safety. Avoid over-treating, as using too much can actually cause problems rather than benefits. Start with the recommended dosage and monitor your engine’s performance to determine if the treatment is providing the desired improvements.

Expanded Answer (Technical)

Cetane boosting requires systematic application of proven chemical additives using proper dosage rates, mixing procedures, and quality control measures to achieve optimal ignition quality enhancement while maintaining fuel system compatibility and safety standards.

Application Methodology

Proper cetane boosting involves precise dosage calculation, correct mixing procedures, and timing of additive introduction to ensure uniform distribution and maximum effectiveness.

Dosage calculation: 0.1-0.5% by volume based on fuel quantity and desired cetane increase
Mixing procedure: Add booster before fuel to ensure thorough blending
Treatment timing: Apply at each fueling for consistent performance benefits
Quality verification: Monitor performance improvements and adjust dosage as needed

Product Selection Criteria

Effective cetane boosting requires selection of appropriate products based on active ingredient concentration, compatibility requirements, and performance specifications.

Active ingredient: 2-EHN concentration typically 15-25% in commercial products
Carrier solvents: Compatible hydrocarbon solvents for fuel system safety
Additive packages: Additional components for fuel system protection
Regulatory compliance: Products meeting relevant fuel additive standards

Performance Monitoring

Successful cetane boosting programs require systematic monitoring of engine performance parameters to verify effectiveness and optimize treatment rates for specific applications.

Starting performance: Reduced cranking time and improved cold start reliability
Combustion quality: Decreased engine noise and smoother operation
Fuel economy: Measurable improvements in fuel consumption efficiency
Emission characteristics: Reduced particulate matter and hydrocarbon emissions

Safety and Compatibility Considerations

Cetane boosting must consider fuel system compatibility, material compatibility, and safety requirements to prevent adverse effects on engine components and ensure safe handling and storage.

Read the full article.

Cetane/2-EHN

DIY cetane booster?

August 14, 2025 Alex Leave a comment

Quick Answer

DIY cetane boosters are not recommended due to safety concerns and potential engine damage. Commercial products undergo extensive testing for effectiveness and compatibility. Homemade mixtures using household chemicals can be dangerous, ineffective, or harmful to fuel systems. The cost savings are minimal compared to commercial products, and risks include engine damage, warranty voiding, and safety hazards.

Expanded Answer (Simplified)

While it might be tempting to try making your own cetane booster to save money, this is strongly discouraged for several important reasons. First and foremost, it’s dangerous. The chemicals needed to effectively improve cetane numbers are hazardous and require proper handling, storage, and mixing procedures that aren’t practical or safe for home use.

Commercial cetane boosters undergo extensive testing to ensure they work effectively and won’t damage your engine or fuel system. They’re formulated with precise concentrations of active ingredients and include stabilizers and other components that ensure safety and compatibility. Homemade mixtures can’t replicate this level of precision and testing.

The potential consequences of using a homemade cetane booster far outweigh any cost savings. You could damage expensive fuel system components like injectors, void your vehicle warranty, or even create safety hazards. Commercial cetane boosters are relatively inexpensive and provide proven results, making DIY alternatives unnecessary and risky.

Expanded Answer (Technical)

DIY cetane booster formulation presents significant technical, safety, and legal challenges that make commercial products the only viable option for safe and effective cetane enhancement in diesel fuel applications.

Technical Complexity

Effective cetane booster formulation requires sophisticated chemical knowledge, precise ingredient control, and extensive testing that cannot be replicated in non-professional environments.

Chemical expertise: Understanding of ignition chemistry and fuel interactions
Precision requirements: Exact concentrations needed for effectiveness without harm
Quality control: Testing and validation procedures ensuring consistent performance
Formulation complexity: Multiple components requiring precise balance and compatibility

Safety and Legal Concerns

DIY cetane booster attempts involve significant safety risks and potential legal issues related to chemical handling, product liability, and regulatory compliance.

Chemical hazards: Dangerous compounds requiring specialized handling and storage
Liability issues: Personal responsibility for engine damage or safety incidents
Regulatory compliance: Fuel additive regulations prohibiting unauthorized formulations
Insurance implications: Potential coverage exclusions for unauthorized modifications

Economic and Performance Considerations

The economic case for DIY cetane boosters is undermined by limited cost savings, significant risks, and inferior performance compared to commercial alternatives.

Cost analysis: Minimal savings offset by significant risk exposure
Performance uncertainty: Unproven effectiveness and potential negative effects
Warranty implications: Voiding of manufacturer warranties and service agreements
Long-term costs: Potential engine damage exceeding any short-term savings

Commercial Alternative Advantages

Commercial cetane boosters provide superior value through proven effectiveness, safety validation, regulatory compliance, and professional technical support that cannot be matched by DIY approaches.

Read the full article.

Diesel Cleaners

How do diesel cleaners work?

August 12, 2025 Alex Leave a comment

Quick Answer

Diesel cleaners work through multiple chemical mechanisms: detergents break molecular bonds in carbon deposits like soap dissolving grease, solvents penetrate hardened buildup, and cetane improvers enhance combustion to prevent future deposits. The active ingredients suspend dissolved contaminants for removal while lubricity agents protect fuel system components from wear during the cleaning process.

Expanded Answer (Simplified)

Diesel cleaners work through several different chemical processes that work together to clean fuel systems and improve engine performance.

Primary Cleaning Mechanisms:

Detergent Action: The main cleaning agents in diesel cleaners work like soap or detergent. They break down the molecular bonds that hold carbon deposits together, allowing them to dissolve into the fuel where they can be safely burned away or filtered out.

Solvent Penetration: Specialized solvents penetrate into hardened deposits that have built up over time. These solvents soften and dissolve deposits that are too tough for detergents alone to handle.

Suspension and Removal: Once deposits are dissolved, dispersant chemicals keep them suspended in the fuel so they don’t settle back onto surfaces. This allows the dissolved contaminants to be carried away and burned in the combustion process.

Heat-Activated Cleaning: Many diesel cleaners become more effective when heated by normal engine operation. The heat helps activate the cleaning chemicals and makes them more effective at breaking down deposits.

Additional Functions:

Combustion Enhancement: Cetane improvers in diesel cleaners help fuel burn more completely and efficiently. This not only improves performance but also helps prevent new deposits from forming.

Lubrication Protection: Lubricity agents protect fuel system components from wear during the cleaning process. This is especially important because the cleaning action can temporarily increase friction.

Corrosion Prevention: Anti-corrosion additives protect metal surfaces from damage during cleaning and help prevent future corrosion.

Water Management: Some diesel cleaners include water separators that help remove moisture from fuel systems, preventing corrosion and microbial growth.

The Cleaning Process:

Initial Contact: When treated fuel reaches the engine, the cleaning agents immediately begin working on deposit surfaces.

Gradual Dissolution: Over time and with repeated exposure, deposits are gradually dissolved and removed from fuel system components.

System Protection: Throughout the process, protective agents ensure that fuel system components aren’t damaged by the cleaning action.

Performance Restoration: As deposits are removed, fuel flow improves, injection patterns are restored, and engine performance returns to optimal levels.

Expanded Answer (Technical)

Diesel cleaners operate through sophisticated chemical mechanisms involving molecular-level interactions, thermodynamically driven processes, and synergistic chemical systems that address deposit formation, removal, and prevention while maintaining fuel system integrity and performance optimization.

Molecular-Level Cleaning Mechanisms

Diesel cleaner effectiveness relies on fundamental chemical interactions at the molecular level:

Detergent Molecular Action:

Polar-Nonpolar Interactions: Detergent molecules contain both hydrophilic and lipophilic regions
Micelle Formation: Detergents form micelles that encapsulate deposit particles
Surface Tension Reduction: Lower surface tension improves penetration into deposits
Molecular Orientation: Detergent molecules orient at deposit-fuel interfaces

Chemical Bond Disruption:

Van der Waals Forces: Disruption of weak intermolecular forces holding deposits
Hydrogen Bonding: Breaking hydrogen bonds in deposit matrix structures
Polar Interactions: Disruption of polar attractions in deposit formations
Coordination Complexes: Formation of soluble complexes with metallic deposits

Thermodynamic Driving Forces

Cleaning effectiveness is enhanced by thermodynamic principles and energy considerations:

Solubility Enhancement:

Temperature Dependence: Higher temperatures increase solubility of deposits
Entropy Increase: Dissolution increases system entropy, driving the process
Gibbs Free Energy: Negative free energy change favors deposit dissolution
Activity Coefficients: Solvent systems optimize activity coefficients for dissolution

Mass Transfer Optimization:

Concentration Gradients: High cleaner concentration drives mass transfer
Diffusion Enhancement: Improved diffusion rates into deposit matrix
Convective Transport: Fuel flow enhances mass transfer rates
Boundary Layer Effects: Reduced boundary layer resistance to mass transfer

Synergistic Chemical Systems

Modern diesel cleaners employ multiple chemical systems working in concert:

Multi-Component Detergent Systems:

PEA Primary Action: Polyether amine for high-temperature deposit removal
PIBA Secondary Action: Polyisobutylene amine for fuel system cleaning
Dispersant Support: PIBSI prevents deposit re-formation and agglomeration
Synergistic Enhancement: Combined systems provide broader spectrum effectiveness

Solvent System Optimization:

Polar Solvents: Alcohols and ethers for polar deposit dissolution
Nonpolar Solvents: Hydrocarbons for nonpolar deposit removal
Co-Solvent Effects: Solvent mixtures enhance overall solubility
Selective Solvation: Targeted solvation of specific deposit types

Deposit-Specific Cleaning Strategies

Different deposit types require specialized cleaning approaches:

Carbonaceous Deposit Removal:

Aromatic Solvents: Benzene derivatives for carbon deposit dissolution
Thermal Activation: Heat-enhanced cleaning for carbonized deposits
Oxidative Cleaning: Controlled oxidation for carbon deposit removal
Penetration Enhancement: Surfactants improve access to carbon matrix

Metallic Deposit Management:

Chelation Chemistry: Metal-binding ligands form soluble complexes
Acid-Base Reactions: pH control for optimal metal dissolution
Redox Reactions: Controlled reduction for metal deposit removal
Complexation Equilibria: Thermodynamic optimization of metal removal

Combustion Enhancement Mechanisms

Diesel cleaners improve combustion characteristics through multiple pathways:

Cetane Number Improvement:

Ignition Delay Reduction: Faster ignition through cetane improvers
Combustion Timing: Optimized heat release timing
Flame Propagation: Enhanced flame front propagation
Heat Release Rate: Controlled heat release characteristics

Fuel Atomization Enhancement:

Surface Tension Reduction: Improved fuel atomization
Spray Characteristics: Optimized spray cone angle and penetration
Droplet Size Distribution: Improved fuel droplet size uniformity
Evaporation Enhancement: Faster fuel evaporation and mixing

Protective Mechanism Integration

Cleaning systems incorporate protection to prevent component damage:

Lubricity Enhancement:

Boundary Lubrication: Improved lubrication at metal surfaces
Friction Reduction: Lower friction coefficients during cleaning
Wear Protection: Anti-wear additives protect during cleaning
Film Formation: Protective films on metal surfaces

Corrosion Inhibition:

Passivation: Formation of protective oxide layers
Chelation: Binding of corrosive metal ions
pH Buffering: Maintenance of optimal pH for corrosion prevention
Vapor Phase Protection: Protection of fuel tank vapor spaces

Kinetic Considerations and Time Dependence

Cleaning effectiveness depends on reaction kinetics and time factors:

Reaction Rate Optimization:

Temperature Dependence: Arrhenius relationship governs reaction rates
Concentration Effects: Higher concentrations increase reaction rates
Catalytic Enhancement: Metal surfaces catalyze cleaning reactions
Mass Transfer Limitations: Diffusion-controlled vs. reaction-controlled processes

Time-Dependent Effectiveness:

Initial Rapid Phase: Fast dissolution of loose deposits
Intermediate Phase: Gradual penetration into hardened deposits
Equilibrium Phase: Steady-state cleaning and protection
Cumulative Effects: Progressive improvement with repeated treatments

System-Level Integration

Effective cleaning requires consideration of entire fuel system interactions:

Flow Dynamics:

Reynolds Number Effects: Turbulent flow enhances cleaning
Residence Time: Optimal contact time for cleaning effectiveness
Pressure Effects: High pressure enhances penetration
Flow Distribution: Uniform cleaner distribution throughout system

Component Interactions:

Material Compatibility: Cleaner compatibility with all system materials
Seal Interactions: Effects on elastomeric seals and gaskets
Filter Interactions: Impact on fuel filtration systems
Sensor Compatibility: No interference with fuel system sensors

Read the full article.

Diesel Cleaners

How long does diesel cleaner take to work?

August 12, 2025 Alex Leave a comment

Quick Answer

Diesel cleaners begin working immediately when treated fuel reaches the engine, with initial effects noticeable within 5-10 miles. Full cleaning benefits typically appear after 100-300 miles of normal driving or one complete tank cycle. Noticeable improvements in performance and smoothness usually occur within 24-48 hours of application.

Expanded Answer (Simplified)

The time it takes for a diesel cleaner to work can vary depending on the product, the condition of your engine, and how you drive. Here’s a general timeline:

Immediate Action:

The cleaner starts working as soon as the treated fuel reaches your engine. You might notice some initial improvements in smoothness within the first 5-10 miles of driving.

Noticeable Improvements:

You’ll likely feel more significant improvements in performance, such as better acceleration and a smoother idle, within the first 24-48 hours of adding the cleaner. This is usually after you’ve driven for a while and the cleaner has had a chance to circulate and work on the deposits.

Full Cleaning Benefits:

For the cleaner to do a thorough job, it needs to work through a full tank of fuel. The full cleaning benefits are typically realized after you’ve driven 100-300 miles. This gives the cleaner enough time to dissolve and remove the majority of the deposits in your fuel system.

Factors That Affect Cleaning Time:

Severity of Deposits: If your engine has a lot of heavy deposit buildup, it may take longer to see results, or you may need a second treatment.

Type of Driving: Highway driving can help the cleaner work faster because the engine is running at a consistent speed and temperature. Stop-and-go city driving may take a bit longer.

Product Quality: Higher-quality cleaners with more concentrated active ingredients will generally work faster and more effectively.

Expanded Answer (Technical)

The time required for a diesel cleaner to work is a function of several factors, including the chemical kinetics of the cleaning process, the mass transfer of the active ingredients to the deposit sites, and the operating conditions of the engine.

Initial Onset of Action

The cleaning process begins almost immediately upon the introduction of the treated fuel to the injection system.

Transit Time: The time it takes for the treated fuel to travel from the tank to the injectors is typically a few minutes.
Initial Wetting: The active ingredients begin to wet the surfaces of the deposits within the first few miles of driving.
Early Effects: Some users may notice a slight improvement in engine smoothness within 5-10 miles as the most accessible deposits begin to be removed.

Time to Noticeable Improvement

More significant improvements in performance are typically observed after a period of sustained operation.

24-48 Hours: This is a common timeframe for users to report noticeable improvements in idle quality, throttle response, and engine noise.
50-100 Miles: After this distance, a significant portion of the lighter deposits will have been removed, leading to measurable performance gains.

Time to Full Cleaning Effect

A complete cleaning cycle requires the consumption of the entire tank of treated fuel.

100-300 Miles: This is the typical range for a full cleaning cycle, allowing the cleaner to work on both light and heavy deposits.
One Tank Cycle: The most common recommendation is to evaluate the full effect after using one full tank of treated fuel.

Factors Influencing Cleaning Time

The rate of cleaning is influenced by several variables:

1. Deposit Characteristics:

Deposit Thickness: Thicker deposits require more time to penetrate and dissolve.
Deposit Composition: Hard, carbonized deposits are more difficult to remove than softer, waxy deposits.

2. Engine Operating Conditions:

Temperature: Higher engine temperatures accelerate the chemical reactions of the cleaning process.
Pressure: The high pressures in a common rail system can enhance the penetration of the cleaner into the deposits.
Flow Rate: Higher fuel flow rates can increase the mass transfer of the active ingredients to the deposit sites.

3. Product Formulation:

Active Ingredient Concentration: Higher concentrations of detergents and solvents lead to faster cleaning.
Chemical Kinetics: The specific chemical composition of the cleaner determines its reaction rate with the deposits.

Read the full article.

Contact us

Find us on:

Newsletter