Contamination of fuel occurs most frequently in the “last mile” of the supply chain, where it reaches the retail client. When one type of fuel is accidentally “cross-dumped” into the wrong subterranean storage tank at the retail station, contamination occurs. Most of the time, this is due to a delivery driver error. Color-coded fuel transfer hoses and tank covers indicate the kind of fuel: red for diesel, blue for gasoline, and yellow for high-octane gasoline. Cross-dumps will occur if the delivery is made at night, when colors are less visible. Worse yet, the gasoline transfer hoses and cap threads are identical in size.
The consumer is better protected at the pump from unintentionally putting diesel into a vehicle’s gasoline tank. Green markings and “Diesel Fuel Only” labels distinguish diesel fuel pumps. A dispensing nozzle with a bigger aperture size than a gasoline pump is installed on the hand-pump. The diesel nozzle will not fit into the gasoline fill hole as a result.
You’ll notice it right away if you put cross-contaminated diesel or gasoline into your car. It will stall and break down if you put diesel in a gasoline-powered vehicle. Engine damage can result from excessive levels of diesel pollution in gasoline, such as burst pistons and broken heads. If you have a high degree of diesel pollution, you will have unclean combustion, which will damage your engine over time if nothing is done. If you load a diesel vehicle with gasoline-tainted gasoline, you’ll hear explosions and see whiteish gray smoke billowing from the exhaust pipe. Turbochargers, fuel pumps, and unclean diesel injectors can all be damaged by gasoline pollution. In either case of contamination, the driver should immediately stop the vehicle and seek assistance to avoid further damage and a potential fire or explosion. A chemical technique known as fractional distillation is used to detect diesel and gasoline cross contamination. ASTM D86 is a specific procedure for this technique. A round bottom flask, fractional column, thermometer, condenser, and distillation adaptors are common pieces of equipment used in fractional distillation.
How can you determine the difference between gasoline and diesel?
Both gasoline and diesel are fuels that begin as mined crude oils and are refined into a variety of fuels. Diesel fuel is frequently less expensive than gasoline since the refining process is simpler, yet diesel prices have progressively climbed in recent years due to environmental requirements. Diesel fuel has a thicker, more greasy feel than gasoline, and it takes longer to evaporate due to its weight. Diesel’s boiling point is likewise higher than that of water.
How can you tell whether diesel fuel is contaminated?
We analyze gasoline and diesel fuel for contamination from water, dirt, rust, algae, salt, DEF (diesel exhaust fluid), and transmix, among other things. Contaminated fuel can cause a slew of issues, especially in car engines. Engine stalling, hard starts or stops, filter blockage, and even holes in the fuel tank can all be caused by contaminated fuel.
Contamination can be caused by a variety of factors. There is a risk of serious harm if there is water in the gasoline. Dirt, rust, or algae could all be present in your fuel. Even if the fuel is clean, mixing it with other fuels in the tank, such as gasoline and diesel, can cause catastrophic engine damage.
There is no single ‘contamination’ test that can both validate that a fuel sample is contaminated and identify the source of contamination; the tests we perform on contaminated fuel generally offer yes or no answers to specific questions. Starting with the most likely source of contamination and working your way up is the best strategy to test tainted fuel.
You can examine the sample visually to determine if contamination is a concern. Place a portion of your fuel in a clear, clean container and examine it in bright light. Look for grit or other particles in the gasoline, which can be found at the bottom of the container or floating in it. Dirt, corrosion, or even algae could be the cause. Separation – layers in the fuel that could be water or mixed fuel – should also be looked for. If the color appears to be off, it could be a symptom of mixed fuel or germs.
You can bring or ship your fuel sample to one of our laboratories if you don’t know what’s in it. Our professionals will analyse the sample and make recommendations to you. Our specialists are well-versed in dealing with tainted fuel and have plenty of experience with it. They can help you select the appropriate testing for your sample.
We provide a free sample shipping kit to our first-time customers to assist them in getting their sample to our lab. These shipping kits come with all of the packing you’ll need to send fuel securely, as well as the necessary labels to comply with regulatory laws. More information on our Sampling and Shipping Kits can be found here.
- Distillation (ASTM D86) (Used to detect mixed fuel contamination)
- Flash Point (ASTM D93) (Used mainly to detect gasoline contamination in diesel fuel)
- Particulate Contamination (ASTM D6217) (Used to detect dirt, rust, or other particles in fuel)
- Karl Fischer Water Content (ASTM D6304) (Used to measure water contamination)
- ICP’s ASTM D5185M – Metals in Fuel or Oil (Used to detect trace amounts of metal in fuel, which can indicate rust issues)
- Biodiesel Content by FTIR (ASTM D7371) (Used to detect biodiesel contamination in diesel; this instrument can also analyze diesel fuel for DEF contamination)
- Microbial Growth in Fuel (APL 007) (Used to measure growth such as algae and bacteria in fuel)
When you put gas in a diesel, what happens?
If you’re a seasoned diesel truck driver, you probably already know this, but at Gem State Diesel, we believe that no query is too foolish or apparent. This is a question that has been posed all over the internet, so we decided to answer it once and for all.
Whether you accidentally filled up your truck with regular gas or simply wanted to know what would happen if you did, here’s the answer and how to avoid your pickup suffering as a result of this easy oversight.
So you’re at the gas station and you completely lose track of time, resulting in you dumping gasoline into your diesel tank. You might be worried and thinking to yourself that your pickup is permanently wrecked at this point. Although this isn’t always the case, the next steps you take are crucial.
But first, let’s look at why diesel and gasoline can’t combine in the first place, and what happens when they do.
- For starters, diesel is substantially thicker than gasoline since it is made up of larger molecules, and it also has a far higher flash point and autoignition temperature than gasoline.
- When gasoline and diesel mix, the first thing that happens is that the flash point changes. This means that the diesel fuel will have a lower flash point and will ignite early in the engine, potentially causing catastrophic engine damage.
- Damage to the fuel pump and diesel injectors occurs: When you start your automobile, the gasoline will alter the fuel pump and diesel injectors because, unlike diesel, which is an oil, gasoline is a solvent that will react differently in your engine.
- Finally, running gasoline will result in black smoke emerging from your exhaust and your computer sensors failing to perform effectively since they will compensate for the gasoline’s lack of lubricity unnecessarily.
Now that you’re aware of the big problems you and your vehicle could suffer as a result of this error, let’s go over the methods to avoid tragedy.
Okay, so you made a mistake, but this can still be salvaged. In fact, if you follow these measures and don’t deviate from them at all, the chances of your vehicle being wrecked by gasoline are extremely tiny.
Don’t start your pickup if you haven’t already.
This may sound obvious, but some individuals don’t notice they’ve made a mistake until the car is running and sputtering. If this is the case, switch it off as soon as possible and call a tow truck. If you need a tow in the Treasure Valley, call our sister firm, NesmithBrothers Towing, at (208) 884-1000, and they will be out to assist you as soon as possible. Turning on the truck if it isn’t on will cause all of the problems listed above, so thinking you’re close to home and capable of driving isn’t something you want to take a chance on.
Have a tow truck on hand take your car to your mechanic
Make sure your local, dependable technician is available once you’ve contacted the tow truck since the sooner the petrol is drained, the better. Although some sites claim that you can drain your fuel on your own, a professional will be able to ensure that every last drop of gasoline is gone, which is critical. “As little as 1% gasoline pollution will lower the diesel flash point by 18 degrees C,” according to Bell Performance.
Have your mechanic completely drain the petrol.
The next step is to have your mechanic drain and remove all of the petrol from your vehicle. If your technician specializes in diesel engines, this should be a pretty straightforward and inexpensive procedure that will ensure that your car is not harmed in any way by the fuel.
If you started your car, notify your mechanic so that they may evaluate your engine, diesel injectors, and fuel pump for any damage caused by the gas’s premature ignition or lubricity.
Do not attempt to drive your pickup until this has been completed.
As previously stated, driving your vehicle with gasoline in the tank is one of the last things you should do if you want to maintain its performance and quality. Although many sites claim that gasoline won’t necessarily cause your pickup to break down, the long-term harm could be irreversible. It’s not worth the minor convenience of not having to deal with a tow truck.
Put a note on the gas cap if you’re forgetful.
When searching online, there weren’t many people who had remedies for forgetful people who were bound to do the same error again. However, putting a small reminder on the gas cap, such as a diesel logo or sticker, was suggested in several diesel forums.
Although it may appear foolish, isn’t it worth it if this small symbol or sticker will save you money, effort, and the worry of damage to your vehicle?
Finally, whether you’re a seasoned diesel truck driver or someone who is just getting started with diesel cars, mistakes happen, and having a dependable group of knowledgeable individuals around is the best way to ensure you’re protected no matter what.
That is why, if you find yourself in the lovely state of Idaho, don’t hesitate to contact us at Gem State Diesel for all of your diesel engine needs. After all, why be concerned about your vehicle when you can let us handle the heavy lifting while you relax and enjoy yourself?
Is the smell of diesel and gasoline the same?
The most significant distinction between gasoline and diesel is density. Diesel fuel has a higher viscosity (thickness) than gasoline. Diesel smells like powerful kerosene, while gasoline is weak and smells like paint thinner. You can detect what type of fuel is in the container by giving it a brief whiff or slosh.
In a gas station, how can you identify the difference between gasoline and diesel?
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Ultra-High-Octane Fuels/Flagship Fuels
Many gas stations, particularly in major cities, provide ultra-high-octane or premium fuels, or both. Some gas stations, for example, sell an extra-high grade of gasoline with an octane rating of 93 or higher. These high-octane fuels are designed for use in exotic sports automobiles such as the Nissan GT-R, Lamborghini Aventador, and Porsche 911 Turbo. Many owners of customized engines and custom-tuned performance cars choose to use ultra-high-octane fuel.
Furthermore, some stores sell a trademark or flagship fuel, such as Shell V-Power Nitro + or Esso Synergy, that has unique additives and formulations that improve performance, fuel efficiency, engine cleaning, and other benefits. Some gas stations sell both gasoline and diesel under their flagship fuel classification.
The Yellow Pumps
Diesel fuel, which is often used in larger trucks and some car types, is normally designated for pumps with yellow handles at the gas station. Because diesel fuel can cause damage to a gasoline-powered vehicle, many diesel pumps and gasoline-powered vehicles are equipped with safety mechanisms to avoid misfueling. If you accidentally fill your gas-powered automobile with diesel at the gas station (or vice versa), call a tow truck right away and have the car towed to your favorite repair. Start the engine but don’t let it run.
Other Fuels
Alternative fuel vehicles, such as natural gas or propane, can be refueled at some gas stations with pumps and tanks. Many vehicle fleets, including taxi cab companies, transit companies, and the like, run cars that have been converted to run on these fuels, frequently for cheaper fuel prices that make greater business sense when running a fleet.
Is it possible to test diesel fuel?
The fuel hydrocarbons and water present provide food for the microbial species that can survive in the harsh environment of fuel systems. Even if there is only a small amount of water present, microbes can thrive.
Water can get into fuel systems in a variety of ways. Condensation is the most common source, and it can enter the tank or the fuel delivery chain at practically any point. It’s critical to get rid of this water if you want to successfully manage diesel fuel pollution, but it’s tough to get rid of all of it.
Because water is so difficult to remove, fuel owners must constantly monitor and manage the dangers of microbial contamination in diesel fuel.
Organizations that utilize diesel fuel can employ a variety of laboratory tests to proactively monitor for diesel fuel pollution. There are also a few on-site diesel fuel contamination testing available.
What is the appearance of tainted diesel fuel?
Biomass (the buildup of microbial cells) is formed when diesel fuel is contaminated, and it might appear as a thick, slimy substance. Even when you can’t see it, biomass can be present. Biomass can impede engine systems, causing the engine to perform poorly or even shut down.
How do you tell whether the fuel you’re using is contaminated?
You may have purchased tainted fuel if you develop any of the following symptoms soon after refueling:
If you think you got a faulty batch of gas, the first thing you should do is take your automobile to your local mechanic or service center for a check and verification.
If you are unable to drive your vehicle to your mechanic, contact our roadside assistance staff on 13 11 22 for a rapid examination and advise, as well as towing if necessary.
One of the three rules to remember while refueling is to keep track of the date, time, and place where the fuel was obtained. Despite the fact that many people throw away receipts, they might be useful when filing claims for contamination and proof of purchase.
Inform the service station where you purchased the fuel that you are having troubles as a result of the recent refueling and that you will be filing a claim against them for any necessary repairs.
The NRMA is dedicated to helping you find the best deal at the pump via the my nrma app, and we’ll keep you informed with news and information on our fuel resources website.
What is the maximum time a diesel engine can operate on gasoline?
Your car’s gasoline engine should last roughly 200,000 miles before it requires a major maintenance or you need to purchase a new vehicle. Diesel engines, on the other hand, may run for 1,000,000-1,500,000 miles without having any serious maintenance. In fact, a well-maintained diesel engine can last for 30 years or more on the road.
According to Capital Reman Exchange, there are three key factors for a diesel engine’s lifetime, endurance, and reliability:
- A diesel engine’s general design
- The type of gasoline used by a diesel engine.
- Diesel engines are commonly utilized in the following applications.
A diesel engine is gear-driven in design. Gears, unlike other parts that can be broken or damaged, are easy to repair and never lose their timing. Gear-driven water and oil pumps are available on most diesel automobiles. Parts and components are less likely to fail as a result of this.
Diesel-powered vehicles are typically built with heavy-duty components that can withstand the vehicle’s power, resulting in less wear and tear on all parts of the engine.
Diesel engines are also fantastic since they are self-cooling, which means they have a far lower possibility of overheating. There are multiple sensors and thermostats in use, which means that if one fails, the engine will not overheat. A steady supply of coolant flows freely through the engine thanks to many piston-cooling nozzles.
Compression ignition is used by a diesel engine to use its fuel to power itself. This happens when diesel fuel and air are squeezed to the point that heat is generated, resulting in spontaneous combustion. This spontaneous combustion, according to Digital Trends, is significantly more favourable for a long-lasting engine.
Is it true that unleaded will harm a diesel engine?
When it comes to the improper gasoline in the car cost equation, this is both the most prevalent and, unfortunately, the most fatal mistake.
Because the petrol nozzle will really fit into the filler for a modern diesel, misfueling a diesel automobile with petrol is easier to perform (especially if you approach the fuel pumps with your eyes closed).
If you use unleaded gasoline in a diesel engine, you risk causing catastrophic and maybe fatal harm to your vehicle. That’s right, it’s that horrible.
When you mix petrol with diesel in your tank, you’re essentially generating a solvent, which will immediately cause havoc with your car’s fuel system, perhaps necessitating the purchase of a new engine, filters, fuel pump, injectors, and a whole new fuel tank.
Modern common-rail diesels are particularly vulnerable to this type of damage, which is cruel because these more sophisticated engines don’t sound as rattly as older engines and may lead you to forget you possess a diesel vehicle.
Putting a gun to the head of your car and pressing the trigger is a good analogy for putting gasoline in a diesel engine.