It was reported nationwide last year that the increase in FAME Content was causing problems with blocked inline filters and an increase in water contamination. Since then, thanks to trade associations and industry bodies working with oil refineries, the levels of FAME content in red diesel has been brought down to where problems are less likely to occur.
However, the issue of FAME content is an ongoing problem. Trade associations and industry bodys are still looking for a long term solution to the problem. Read our short article on what you can do to reduce the negative effects of FAME.
What Is Fame?
FAME (Fatty Acid Methyl Esters) is the generic chemical term for biodiesel which is mostly produced from recycled cooking oils and renewable oil sources. As biodiesel, it is most likely to hold a higher water content than other petroleum-based fuels which can increase the chances of fuel contamination and other serious complications. This Increase in FAME content within gas oil has been having negative responses nationally with reports of clogged filters and low fuel pressure, luckily most newer machinery is compatible with the FAME set out in new regulations. However, it is crucial that business owners and farmers are aware of what this can mean for them.
Some of the problems caused by FAME include:
Poor cold flow characteristics
Relatively short shelf life
Water contamination due to higher water content
Encourages diesel bug growth
Increased chance of injector fouling
Higher fuel consumption rate due to fuel being less powerful
Gradual degradation of fuel due to oxidation and hydrolysis, which can damage machinery.
How To Reduce The Effects
Clean Your Tank - Having your tank professionally cleaned by a specialist before delivery of biofuel and check after to ensure it is free of moisture and clean.
Regularly Check Your Tank- Carry out regular checks and take action if any dirt or mould is present.
Examine pipework, filters and seals- Check these regularly, to reduce the chances of blockage change filters between every 2-3 deliveries.
Keep Your Tank Topped Up - Having your tank kept full can reduce the amount of air in the tank which draws out moisture.
Limit Storage Time- The less time your fuel sits in the tank, the better as moisture can build up over time.
Use Specialist Fuel Additives - To aid our customers in the management of their fuel we offer specialist fuel additives that can dramatically counter the effects of increased FAME and prevent costly downtime for plant and machinery.
Gas Oil Supreme- This can be used to stop the effects of bio fuel and should be used on fuel stored for less than 12 weeks.
Anti Bug Protect- The higher FAME Content can increase the chances of bugs in the tank. Anti bug protect can be used in preventing this from happening.
Anti Bug Kill - This is used to eliminate bugs once identified.
Diesel Supreme- Prevents the effects of higher FAME content in diesel.
Fuel Store Plus- Prevents negative FAME effects on fuel which is stored for longer periods of time.
We are committed to providing quality fuel to our customers and have been working with trade association UKIFDA in relation to FAME problems. If you have any further questions on the topic, contact us on 01360 660264.
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Completely running out of heating oil can leave you without hot water or heating, this is especially inconvenient during winter when it’s needed the most. Running fully dry of heating oil is easily done by not keeping an eye on your fuel levels or from fuel theft