Choosing The Right Fuel For Fleet Maintenance

Maintaining a fleet in peak condition is usually an ongoing concern on the construction site. Fleet managers are responsible for ensuring that all equipment is running at tip top condition and that downtime and service repairs are kept to an absolute minimum.

Why Is Premium Diesel Better?

One factor which makes an important difference is the use of premium diesel fuel, this usually comes with a comprehensive additive package which will maximise performance, helping to keep exhaust systems clean whilst maintaining the upkeep of the engine.

There are so many fuelling options available on the market – something which can often make choosing the most appropriate diesel fuel a confusing task. Fleet managers are able to choose from more different types of fuels than ever before, therefore choosing the right one is crucial to the success of your fleet.  

Using a premium diesel fuel with the right additives can increase overall efficiency and equipment longevity. Any diesel engine runs better when all the engine components are working together – premium fuel can help to deliver and maintain the following:

• - a clean engine
• - enhanced performance
• - a reduced risk of unplanned downtime and maintenance
• - improved fuel economy

Additives

Additives are the main difference between standard grade diesel and premium grade – they are used to modify the properties of the diesel fuel, maintaining the engine and considerably enhancing performance. Additives may include:

• - corrosion inhibitors, a chemical compound which decreases the corrosion rate of a material when added to diesel fuel
• - detergents, these help to remove the build up of deposits in certain areas, such as around the fuel injectors
• - lubricity cetane, this helps to reduce friction, protecting the diesel injection system from wear and corrosion as well as ensuring faster start up and reducing the wear on the battery
• - cold flow improver, this helps to ensure the fuel meets low temperature specifications
• - demulsifiers may also be used to help prevent unwanted moisture travelling through the engine system.

Protecting the Environment

Maximising fuel economy and protecting the environment are primary concerns – diesel engines are considerably cleaner than they used to be and in recent years, diesel engine manufacturers have been required to install special emissions control equipment which has helped to improve air quality. Considering green fleet management solutions involves the review of fuel use, carbon dioxide, nitrogen dioxide and particulate matter emissions. Premium diesel fuel tends to be cleaner and ultimately better for the environment.

AT Wilde & Son Ltd are a Shropshire-based organisation specialising in the supply of engines, plant spares and parts throughout the UK from leading manufacturers.