Diesel Fuel EN590
EN 590 specifies the physical and chemical properties that all automotive diesel fuel must meet in order to be sold in the European Union. These properties include:
- Sulphur content: The sulphur content of EN 590 diesel must be no more than 10 parts per million (ppm). This is a significant reduction from the previous standard of 500 ppm.
- Cetane number: The cetane number of EN 590 diesel must be no less than 51. This is a measure of the ignition quality of the fuel.
- Flash point: The flash point of EN 590 diesel must be no less than 32 degrees Celsius. This is the temperature at which the fuel will give off enough vapour to ignite.
- Density: The density of EN 590 diesel must be between 820 and 845 kilograms per cubic metre.
- Kinematic viscosity: The kinematic viscosity of EN 590 diesel must be between 2.0 and 4.5 mm2/s at 40 degrees Celsius. This is a measure of the flow resistance of the fuel.
- Fatty acid methyl ester (FAME) content: The FAME content of EN 590 diesel must be no more than 7% by volume. FAME is a biodiesel component.
EN 590 diesel is also known as ultra-low sulphur diesel (ULSD). This is because the sulphur content of ULSD is much lower than that of traditional diesel fuel. This has a number of environmental benefits, including:
- Reduced emissions of sulphur dioxide (SO2): SO2 is a major contributor to acid rain.
- Reduced emissions of particulate matter (PM): PM can cause respiratory problems.
- Reduced emissions of nitrogen oxides (NOx): NOx can contribute to the formation of ground-level ozone, which is a harmful pollutant.
In addition to the environmental benefits, ULSD also has a number of performance benefits. These include:
- Improved engine performance: ULSD can help to improve engine efficiency and reduce emissions.
- Reduced wear and tear on engine components: ULSD can help to reduce wear and tear on engine components, such as injectors and pumps.
- Extended engine life: ULSD can help to extend the life of an engine.
EN 590 is the standard for automotive diesel fuel in the European Union. It is a high-quality fuel that has a number of environmental and performance benefits.