What are the Diesel Fuel Types for Diesel Generator Day Tanks?

25 Apr What are the Diesel Fuel Types for Diesel Generator Day Tanks?

If you’re looking for a diesel generator, it’s important to know the different types of diesel fuel available. Diesel fuel is available in various grades, depending on its intended use. In this article, we’ll discuss the different types of diesel fuel and their applications.

Different Types Of Diesel Fuel Used In Diesel Generators

Not all diesel is created equal, and it’s crucial to be aware of the many grades available. Diesel Fuel Grade #1 (DF1), Diesel Fuel Grade #2 (DF2), and a combination of the two known as Winterized Diesel are three options.

Diesel Fuel Grade #1

Diesel fuel grade one is a very common type of diesel. It is often used in construction equipment, farm machinery, and some types of trucks. Grade one diesel has a lower sulfur content than other grades, making it less likely to cause engine damage over time. This fuel is also less likely to gel in cold weather, making it a good choice for those who live in colder climates. Diesel Fuel #1 is frequently used as a backup to Diesel Fuel #2 and blended diesel.

 Diesel Fuel #1 has some disadvantages that should be considered, such as:

• Low energy content due to greater volatility;
• Due to the lack of paraffin wax, an essential lubricant found in #2, lubrication is limited.; and
• Because of its low energy content, necessitating larger amounts to make a match, it is more expensive than #2.

Diesel Fuel Grade #2

It is less volatile and has a high viscosity.  Diesel Fuel #2 is a blend of diesel fuels. Wax is present in this type, which gives it the desired and beneficial lubricating effect. The lubrication protects the diesel engine and all of its components from harsh usage, wear, and tear.

Diesel fuel grade two is a type of diesel that is commonly used in construction equipment and agricultural machinery. It has a lower cetane number than diesel fuel grade one and is not as widely available. Diesel fuel grade two may also be called off-road diesel or farm diesel in some areas.

Diesel generators that run on this type of fuel typically have a larger tank than those that use other grades of diesel. This is because the lower cetane number means the fuel burns less efficiently. The larger tank allows for more time between refueling stops.

Diesel Fuel Grade #2 Characteristics:

• Lower cetane number
• Used in construction equipment and agricultural machinery
• Also called off-road diesel or farm diesel in some areas
• Requires a larger tank

Diesel Fuel #2 is the most preferred diesel fuel type for diesel generators under most weather conditions and situations because it has the best burning properties.

Here are the several advantages of Diesel Fuel #2:

• It’s available at most gas stations;
• Content of high energy;
• The usage of wax allows the engine to stay lubricated for longer periods.
• The longer maintenance life of a diesel engine is attributed to its increased efficiency.
• All of the aforementioned have resulted in a reduction in spending.

One disadvantage, on the other hand, is that it has a low resistance to gelling in the winter because of its high viscosity and paraffin wax content. Wax crystals start to grow at about 10° Fahrenheit.

During the winter, when there is a greater gelling effect, hard starts or no starts will have a direct influence on your operations and overall performance. Even if #2 is a good choice for the rest of the year, it may not be the finest option during extremely cold winters.

Diesel Fuel in Cold Weather

Diesel fuel can gel in cold weather. This can cause problems with your diesel generator day tank if the fuel gels and clogs the filter. There are two types of diesel fuel you can use to help prevent this from happening: winterized diesel and biodiesel.

Winterized diesel is a type of diesel that has been treated to lower its pour point or the temperature at which it will start to gel. Biodiesel is another option for preventing fuel gelling. It is made from renewable resources like vegetable oils and animal fats. Biodiesel can be used in any proportion with petroleum-based diesel, but most generators run best on a B20 blend (20% biodiesel, 80% petroleum diesel). 

If you’re using biodiesel, be sure to check your generator’s owner’s manual before using it. Some generators are not designed to run on biodiesel blends and can be damaged by it.

If you’re using winterized diesel or biodiesel in your generator day tank, you can help prevent fuel gelling by following these tips:

• Keep your day tank full so there is less air space for the cold air to reach the fuel.
• If possible, store your day tank indoors where it will be warmer.
• Use a heater blanket or heat tape on the outside of the day tank to keep the fuel warm.
• Add a diesel fuel conditioner to your fuel to help prevent gelling. 

So, what’s the best fuel for your generator?

Under most circumstances, operators do not need to be concerned about which fuel is ideal for their diesel generator(s) because local fuel businesses are familiar with it.

Your service provider will provide you with the most suitable solution based on your diesel generator, the sort of tasks you’ll be performing, and local weather conditions. Keep in mind that knowing diesel generators is beneficial.

---