Diesel Emission standards have reached their peak in North America with the demand for less sulfur content to improve air quality. Petroleum refineries are now producing Ultra Low Sulfur Diesel, or S15, which has a maximum sulfur content of 15 parts per million (ppm). ULSD is now totally phased in as a direct replacement for (LSD) Low sulfur diesel or S500 (Sulfur content 500 ppm). The ultimate goal is to reduce sulfur content by 95 percent.
The main objective for ULSD and sophisticated emission control systems is to cut down sulfur content reducing soot and oxides of Nitrogen. With the addition of low-ash engine oil there will be less problems with soot build up and component failure. But how does this new fuel effect the transportation industry and is their anything to consider before using it?
ULSD has to be used in emission controlled diesel engines 2007 and newer. Retail fuel outlets were not required to stock ULSD until Dec. 1, 2010. It’s highly advised to check the labeling on the pump indicating that they sell Ultra Low Sulfur Diesel. You would be taking a chance with your emission components if there was not a proper ULSD label visible.
The Two Biggest Effects of Removing Sulfur from Diesel Fuel
Older diesel engines (pre-2007) are used to running on a higher sulfur diesel fuel. Sulfur lubricates fuel injection components so the lack of it in ULSD had to be addressed. This has been taken care of with lubricating additives that are mixed into USLD before distribution.
Another change after removing sulfur content was the effect it had on paraffins (wax) during cold weather conditions. The process changed the anti-gel efficiency so the distributors had to properly winterize their fuel to suit any winter climate.
What About Diesel Fuel Additives?
After being pitched several times on diesel fuel additives with claims of reducing water content and impurities I wanted to set out and get the facts on Ultra Low sulfur Diesel. If oil companies are spending millions of dollars every year on research to reduce sulfur content, why are diesel fuel additive producers spending who knows how much money on their product?
If 90 percent or more of the contaminants are removed using USLD should aftermarket fuel additives even be considered?
Whelan has worked as a school bus and truck mechanic for the past 34 years and is currently shop foreman for the School District No. 73 transportation department in Kamloops, British Columbia. Read more about Whelan’s shop experiences at his personal blog site.
