Dales Super Store - Diesel Fuel Contamination Kits | DEF / GAS / WATER / DEBRIS

Types of Contamination Causes

DEF fluid in fuel:
When Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) contaminates diesel fuel, it causes severe issues. DEF is corrosive and not compatible with diesel, leading to rapid corrosion and failure of fuel pumps and injectors. The fluid disrupts fuel lubrication, increasing friction and wear, resulting in rough engine performance, loss of power, and potentially complete engine failure. Resolving this requires flushing the fuel system, replacing damaged components, and may involve extensive repairs.

GASOLINE in fuel:
When gasoline contaminates a diesel fuel system, it can cause significant damage. Gasoline lacks the lubrication properties of diesel, leading to increased friction and wear in fuel pumps and injectors. This can result in overheating, injector failure, and severe engine damage. Gasoline also has a lower flash point, causing improper combustion, rough running, and potential engine knocking. The effects include loss of power, excessive smoke, and even complete engine failure. Fixing this requires draining the system, replacing damaged components, and may involve costly repairs.

WATER in fuel:
When water contaminates diesel fuel, it can lead to serious engine problems. Water doesn't mix with diesel, so it can accumulate in the fuel system, causing corrosion in fuel injectors and pumps. This leads to rust, reduced lubrication, and increased wear. Water in the fuel can also cause poor combustion, resulting in rough idling, power loss, and increased smoke. If left unchecked, it can cause complete fuel system failure. Addressing this issue requires draining the fuel, replacing filters, and potentially repairing or replacing damaged components.

HIGH SULFURE in fuel:
High sulfur content in diesel fuel can lead to significant engine damage and environmental issues. Sulfur in fuel contributes to the formation of sulfuric acid during combustion, which can corrode engine components, including injectors and exhaust systems. This corrosion increases wear and tear, reduces engine efficiency, and shortens the lifespan of vital parts. Additionally, high sulfur levels can clog diesel particulate filters (DPFs) and damage catalytic converters, leading to higher emissions and costly repairs. To avoid these issues, using low-sulfur diesel fuel is essential to maintain engine performance and compliance with emissions standards.

PUMP failure (metal debris):
Pump failure in a diesel engine can release metal debris into the fuel system, leading to widespread damage. When a fuel pump fails, the internal components can break down, shedding tiny metal particles into the fuel. These metal fragments circulate through the system, causing abrasive wear on fuel injectors, clogging filters, and damaging other sensitive engine parts. The result is poor engine performance, increased emissions, and potentially catastrophic engine failure. Fixing this issue often requires replacing the fuel pump, thoroughly flushing the fuel system, and installing new injectors and filters to prevent further damage.

Common Diesel Pump Failure Contamination Causes

• Water Ingress: Water can enter the fuel system through various means such as condensation, leaks in storage tanks or pipelines, or improper fuel handling. Water contamination can lead to the formation of corrosive compounds, promote microbial growth, and cause fuel injector and pump damage.
• Microbial Growth: Microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, and algae, can grow in diesel fuel under certain conditions. They thrive in the presence of water and organic matter in the fuel. Microbial contamination can clog filters, produce acidic byproducts, and cause fuel degradation.
• Sediment and Particulate Matter: Dirt, dust, rust, and other particulate matter can find their way into the fuel during storage, transportation, or dispensing processes. These contaminants can clog fuel filters, cause abrasive wear in the fuel system, and affect fuel combustion efficiency.
• Poor Storage Practices: Improper storage of diesel fuel, such as extended exposure to sunlight, high temperatures, or air exposure, can accelerate fuel degradation and increase the likelihood of contamination. Contaminants from the storage environment may also enter the fuel.
• Fuel Mixing: Mixing different grades or types of diesel fuel, or introducing additives of questionable quality, can result in fuel contamination. Incompatible fuels or additives can create chemical reactions or form insoluble compounds that negatively affect fuel performance.
• Equipment Malfunctions: Malfunctioning fuel storage tanks, delivery systems, or dispensing equipment can introduce contaminants into the diesel fuel. For example, a faulty fuel pump or a deteriorated seal can allow impurities to enter the fuel system.