What are the grades of diesel fuel?
1 Answers
Similar to gasoline, diesel fuel also comes in different grades. However, while gasoline grades are determined by octane ratings, diesel grades are classified based on their freezing points. Currently, light diesel fuels used domestically are divided into 6 grades according to their freezing points: #5 diesel, #0 diesel, #-10 diesel, #-20 diesel, #-35 diesel, and #-50 diesel. The selection of different diesel grades is primarily determined by the ambient temperature during use. Here are the specific grade introductions: Suitable temperature ranges: Generally speaking, #5 diesel is suitable for use when temperatures are above 8°C; #0 diesel is suitable for temperatures between 8°C to 4°C; #-10 diesel is suitable for temperatures between 4°C to -5°C; #-20 diesel is suitable for temperatures between -5°C to -14°C; #-35 diesel is suitable for temperatures between -14°C to -29°C; and #-50 diesel is suitable for temperatures between -29°C to -44°C or below. Impact of incorrect grade selection: If the selected diesel grade is unsuitable for the temperature range, the fuel system in the engine may experience waxing, which can clog the fuel lines and affect the engine's normal operation. The lower the diesel grade number, the less likely it is to wax, though this also means higher prices. Within a temperature range suitable for a particular diesel grade, selecting a grade one level lower is even better.