The Lubricity of Winter Diesel Fuels

Abstract

<div class="htmlview paragraph">In the last few years, particularly since the introduction of Low Sulfur Diesel fuel <b>(i.e.</b> containing less than 500 ppm Sulfur), there have been sporadic complaints regarding field failures of rotary or distributor type fuel injection pumps as used in light and medium duty diesel engines. These failures have been typically associated with the use of either “winter” grade diesel fuel or diesel fuels that have been significantly altered due to environmental legislation <b>(i.e.</b> such as has been mandated in Sweden).</div> <div class="htmlview paragraph">Shell Canada has investigated the <b>lubricity</b> of such fuels where “good” <b>lubricity</b> is defined as the ability of a fuel to prevent or minimize wear in diesel fuel injection equipment.</div> <div class="htmlview paragraph">Evaluation methods included:</div> <div class="htmlview paragraph"> <ul class="list disc"> <li class="list-item"> <div class="htmlview paragraph">actual over the road vehicle tests</div> </li> <li class="list-item"> <div class="htmlview paragraph">Tests using purpose built fuel pump endurance rigs</div> </li> <li class="list-item"> <div class="htmlview paragraph">Lab bench tests such as ASTM <b>D5001,Scuffing</b> versions of this test and the High Frequency Reciprocating Rig (HFRR) Test.</div> </li> </ul> </div> <div class="htmlview paragraph">Results of this test program are presented and discussed including correlating the field & pump rigs with the lab bench tests.</div>