News & Events

SDEA Support Company set to ease pain of red diesel regulations

From the 1st January 2011, red diesel for non-road mobile machinery must contain no more than 10 milligrams of sulphur per kg of fuel, making the fuel virtually sulphur-free, explains Mr Currie. However, sulphur-free gas oil plays an important role in the reliable operation of new, ‘greener’ vehicle engines. The changes to the law, which have been introduced to comply with European Union air quality targets, are expected to reduce the storage life of untreated fuel to around six months maximum.
“The new rules mean that red diesel could contain a biodiesel level of up to 7%,” he says. “With careful maintenance, most modern equipment will continue to operate effectively at this level, but users may run into problems during fuel storage. Using the new fuel blends on older machinery may also lead to damage to seals and pipework.
“Red diesel storage tanks must be monitored, because the biofuel content can increase moisture content, resulting in mould and fungal growth – known as the ‘diesel bug.’ The fuel will break down more quickly, which can cause blockages in the system. If this occurs, users will have to empty and clean fuel tanks, and seek advice on how to guard against further problems.
In cases where the design of the tank makes cleaning difficult, a blockage will eventually be flushed through the system, although repeated filter changes are likely to be required in the future, suggests Mr Currie, who has 25 years’ experience in the fuel, lubrication and filtration sector.
“I discovered that many of my contacts were unaware of all the problems associated with biodiesel storage,” he says. “Once I had done my research, I identified an opportunity to set up a ‘one-stop shop,’ to provide products to help to keep machinery in good working order and offer up to date information. Items range from testing kits, to identify the build up of solids, to specially designed filters, which will remove contaminents in fuel storage systems and machinery tanks. There is also a liquid solution that keep fuel in good condition over winter.
“It is early days, but I am extremely enthusiastic about the new business, and I’m already thinking about expansion. I would welcome enquiries from anyone who would like to become an agent or distributor for Fuel Guard.”
Ian Currie can be contacted on 0845 6769250/07500 012217 or by email. More information can be found on the Fuel Guard website at www.fuel-guard.co.uk