Overcoming fuel contamination
Fuel prices have reached their highest ever levels in recent weeks, and with further rises expected later in the year, some plant operators in the UK will struggle to cope with the soaring cost of fuel.
‘Whether it’s running a generator, heavy machinery or earthmoving equipment, fuel prices have risen by 15% in the past year,’ commented Richard Massara, sales manager for Separ Distribution UK. ‘The cost of diesel alone has risen by nearly 19% in the 12 months up to April 2008. But what is concerning is that many businesses are not looking after this vital and highly valuable energy resource.
‘Fuel quality and contamination are some of the biggest expenses to hit any engine. Changing a fuel filter, finding water in the system or discovering sludge in the tank; these are signs of poor quality fuel that will damage engines.’
As rising fuel costs show no signs of slowing down, suppliers may extend their stock by purchasing abroad, or even by buying poor quality fuel. So what can be done to avoid fuel contamination and, more importantly, maintain business profitability?
Separ advise operators to process and clean their fuel in local storage with the Separ Fuel Polishing Systems (FPS) range, which removes sludge, water, biomass and other contaminants. Adding a fuel biocide/catalyst to the vehicle tank is also recommended, as it will clear contaminants out safely and effectively.
Using a WASP FTR catalyst will disperse the sludge in tanks, ensuring better filtration of the fuel, as well as controlling and neutralizing any bacteria growth. Lastly, Separ recommend that operators condition their fuel prior to use with in-line fuel-conditioning units, which offer a safe and effective way of ensuring fuel is free from active bacteria.
Separ Distribution UK, 3 Kingsley Park, Station Road, Kings Langley, Herts WD4 8GW; tel: (01923) 276007; fax: (01923) 267463.
‘Whether it’s running a generator, heavy machinery or earthmoving equipment, fuel prices have risen by 15% in the past year,’ commented Richard Massara, sales manager for Separ Distribution UK. ‘The cost of diesel alone has risen by nearly 19% in the 12 months up to April 2008. But what is concerning is that many businesses are not looking after this vital and highly valuable energy resource.
‘Fuel quality and contamination are some of the biggest expenses to hit any engine. Changing a fuel filter, finding water in the system or discovering sludge in the tank; these are signs of poor quality fuel that will damage engines.’
As rising fuel costs show no signs of slowing down, suppliers may extend their stock by purchasing abroad, or even by buying poor quality fuel. So what can be done to avoid fuel contamination and, more importantly, maintain business profitability?
Separ advise operators to process and clean their fuel in local storage with the Separ Fuel Polishing Systems (FPS) range, which removes sludge, water, biomass and other contaminants. Adding a fuel biocide/catalyst to the vehicle tank is also recommended, as it will clear contaminants out safely and effectively.
Using a WASP FTR catalyst will disperse the sludge in tanks, ensuring better filtration of the fuel, as well as controlling and neutralizing any bacteria growth. Lastly, Separ recommend that operators condition their fuel prior to use with in-line fuel-conditioning units, which offer a safe and effective way of ensuring fuel is free from active bacteria.
Separ Distribution UK, 3 Kingsley Park, Station Road, Kings Langley, Herts WD4 8GW; tel: (01923) 276007; fax: (01923) 267463.
