Diesel Fuel for Cars (Automotive Diesel):
1. Cetane Number: Automotive diesel fuel typically has a higher cetane number, which represents its ignition quality. A higher cetane number allows for better combustion and smoother engine operation in vehicles.
2. Lubricity: To ensure proper lubrication of fuel injection components and minimize wear in high-pressure diesel engines, automotive diesel fuel contains additives that enhance lubricity.
3. Additives: Automotive diesel often includes additives to improve performance, such as detergents to keep injectors clean, corrosion inhibitors to protect fuel system components, and anti-foaming agents to prevent fuel foaming during refueling.
4. Emission Regulations: Diesel fuel for vehicles must meet stricter emission standards to comply with regulations aimed at reducing harmful emissions from automobiles.
Diesel Fuel for Furnaces (Heating Oil):
1. Cetane Number: Diesel fuel used in furnaces, also known as heating oil, has a lower cetane number compared to automotive diesel. Heating systems do not require the same level of ignition quality as automotive engines.
2. Additives: Heating oil typically does not contain as many additives as automotive diesel. It may contain fewer detergents and lubricity enhancers since furnaces do not require the same level of engine protection.
3. Pour Point: Heating oil has a lower pour point, which is the temperature at which it starts to solidify or turn cloudy. This is essential in cold climates to ensure proper fuel flow during colder months.
4. Sulfur Content: Diesel fuel used in furnaces may have a higher sulfur content compared to automotive diesel. While diesel vehicles are equipped with emission control systems to reduce sulfur emissions, heating systems do not have such requirements.
It is important to use the appropriate diesel fuel type in cars and furnaces to ensure efficient operation, maintain the lifespan of equipment, and comply with relevant regulations.
