Keeping on top of fuel issues - Jamie Smart, Transport Advisor
NFU Scotland first started receiving reports of problems with gas oil (red diesel) in November 19, these continue to turn up sporadically. A lot of work is being done in the background to try to find out what is causing these problems and what to do to stop it happening. What is becoming apparent is that there are a number of issues all of which can cause problems and also combine to cause other problems.
The severe blockages noted during the cold weather in November 19 where filters were blocking suddenly and completely in a matter of hours or minutes has largely, though not entirely, given way to a more gradual problem where filters block slowly causing low fuel pressure warnings and loss of power, usually long before the filters are due to be changed.
NFU Scotland along with NFU England and Wales raised the issues with the British Standards Institution as all samples tested at the time showed that the fuel was within specification. This suggested that the specifications needed to be reviewed to ensure that the fuel being delivered to farms is compatible with the latest engines and is fit for purpose. Work continues and we are still pushing to get evidence to show what is causing the problems. As I write this, I am arranging to have blocked filters examined.
In the meantime, it is important that users of fuel do everything they can to minimise the chances of problems. The following pointers should help you to do this.
- Order the correct fuel for your machinery. There are two main grades of diesel BS2869 and BS590. BS2869 was the class of fuel which was traditionally used in tractors but increasingly manufacturers of modern engines are now specifying BS590 so it is worth checking your instruction manual or asking your dealer which grade of fuel you should be using and specifically ask your suppler for the correct fuel rather than just ordering gas oil or red diesel.
- Order the correct fuel for the time of year. Legally winter grade fuel must be supplied from the 15 November and summer grade from the 15 March but the actual change dates do vary slightly to allow for any delays in the supply chain. If you are ordering fuel around these times it is worth asking your supplier what fuel will be delivered - it may be worth delaying the delivery to ensure the fuel which is delivered will be of the correct grade.
- Try to site your fuel tank away from the worst of the weather, especially extremes in temperature.
- Try not to keep fuel for too long as it will deteriorate over time. A maximum of six months is recommended.
- Have your storage tank checked regularly and cleaned where necessary. Modern bunded tanks can be difficult to clean as they are designed more to prevent spillage and pollution. If you are getting a new storage tank, think about how you are going to clean it out and remove any water that may collect in it.
- Fit a suitable filter on the outlet of your storage tank. These filters can remove a large proportion of contaminants including water droplets.
Members can find more information on the NFU Scotland website at https://www.nfus.org.uk/policy/legal-and-technical/fuel-filter-blocking.aspx and if you do experience issues please let your Regional Manager know.
NFU Scotland members are entitled to a 20-minute free advice call on all issues relating to vehicles via the Transport Helpline. Please call me, Jamie Smart, on 07733 136 424 or email: agrivehelp@nfus.org.uk to access help.
Author: Jamie B Smart
Date Published: 02/06/2021
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