Is it okay to mix PetroChina and Sinopec gasoline?
2 Answers
It is acceptable to occasionally mix PetroChina and Sinopec gasoline, but it is best not to do so frequently. Factors affecting gasoline quality include processing raw materials, processing technology, and the quality of additives used in blending gasoline. The specific factors affecting gasoline quality are as follows: Processing raw materials: Most of China's oil fields are located in the north, and these fields are almost all owned by PetroChina, so PetroChina's production raw materials are mainly domestic crude oil. In contrast, there are few oil fields in the south, so Sinopec's production raw materials are mainly imported crude oil. Generally speaking, the quality of imported crude oil is better than that of domestic crude oil. Therefore, in terms of processing raw materials, Sinopec has a slight advantage. Gasoline production process: A long time ago, PetroChina and Sinopec were one company. Although they later separated, their production equipment and processes are basically the same. In this regard, there is almost no difference. Additives in gasoline: Since the base oil has low anti-knock properties and cannot be used directly, it must be blended to produce the corresponding grade of finished oil before it can be used. To improve anti-knock properties, high-octane components with excellent anti-knock properties, such as isooctane, cumene, and alkylbenzene, need to be added to the product.
I've driven quite a few cars, and it's actually okay to mix gasoline from different oil companies like PetroChina and Sinopec. Their 92 or 95 octane gasoline both meet national standards, with similar base oil but possibly different additives, such as cleaning components. Occasionally mixing them won't cause major issues like sudden engine failure or increased fuel consumption. From a practical driving perspective, if you're in an emergency or can't find your usual gas station brand nearby, mixing fuels to solve a fuel shortage is practical. However, in the long run, it's best to stick to one brand for stable additives, which better protects the engine and reduces carbon buildup. As a car enthusiast, I often pay attention to these details. If you notice slight shaking or unusual noises after mixing, you can drive for a while to observe—most of the time, there's no problem. Of course, regular maintenance and checking the fuel system are also important to prevent potential issues. In short, mixing is feasible, but consistency is key.
