You have heard the words diesel fuel, but what do you really know about it? If you are new to the diesel fuel and diesel engine world and are looking for some basic information, you have come to the right place. Check out the article below for basic information on diesel fuel from our team of experts.
What is diesel fuel?
Put simply, diesel fuel is a liquid that fuels diesel engines. Diesel fuel is denser than gasoline and has a different order. Unlike gasoline, which uses a spark plug to ignite the engine, diesel engines using diesel fuel is ignited by compressed air.
How is diesel fuel made?
Diesel fuel is distilled from crude oil (aka petroleum). The process of creation is called “fractional distillation,” which means that the crude oil is being separated into different elements.
What are the different types of diesel fuel?
There are a number of different types of diesel fuel:
- Petroleum Diesel: This is the most common type of diesel fuel and is made from crude oil.
- Synthetic Diesel: This type of diesel fuel was created in an effort to find a low-carbon fuel alternative. Synthetic diesel has a near-zero sulphur content, which reduces overall emissions.
- Biodiesel: This type of diesel fuel is made from vegetable oils, animal fats or recycled restaurant grease and is much better for our environment but may make your vehicle smell like a French fry.
What vehicles use diesel fuel?
The most common types of diesel-powered vehicles include trucks, semi-trucks, farming equipment, boats, and some cars.