Tag Archives: selective purification

Diesel fuel purification

If a vehicle owner notices problems in the fuel system, the source of the problems needs to be found. Often such problems are caused by contaminated diesel fuel. One solution is to study special literature or search the Internet to find quick ways of diesel fuel purification.

Let us generally consider ways to purify fuels, as well as oils. The methods are different, one such difference being the required time. However, the availability of choice is a step forward all in itself!

To purify fuel and oil from hydrocarbons, tar and nitrogen compounds, 96% sulfuric acid solution is used. It is added in the amount of 0.5 – 1% of the product. After that the liquid separates: the top layer of purified product with some residual acid and the bottom layer: a thick black substance (acid sludge). Acid can be neutralized by alkali (mostly by sodium hydroxide).

Besides, alkali can remove acids, hydrogen sulfide, phenols and mercaptan. The substances resulting from treatment with sodium hydroxide, are usually water soluble and can be removed from the fuel with the water solution of alkali.

Adsorbents (bleaching clay or silica gel) are used to remove sulfur compounds, tar and organic acids.

Selective purification is an interesting looking method. This process is based on the ability of some materials to solve contaminants. Some of the solvents are mononitrobenzene, phenol, liquid propane, furfuraldehyde etc. These act differently: some solve the contaminant and are removed, while others solve hydrocarbons and cause precipitation of contaminants. The advantage of the mthod is that after treatment the solvent may be distilled and reused.

To remove high pour point hydrocarbons from oil products (paraffin removal), the product is cooled and then solid crystals of paraffin and ceresine are removed.

Every diesel fuel and oil can be treated with hydrogen at elevated temperature and pressure in the presence of a catalyst. This is called hydrotreatment. It allows thorough removal of sulfur compounds from oil or fuel, due to the fact that hydrogen binds sulfur to form hydrogen sulfide. Specific conditions of the process are such: the product and hydrogen is heated to 400 ºС and enter a special reactor with the pressure of 50 kg per cm2.

Still, probably the simplest method of fuel purification is the centrifuge. It helps to remove water, tar and solids from the fuel.

In practice, it is best to trust proven equipment, tested and tried in the field of oil and diesel fuel purification. Something like the UVR systems, which can lighten diesel fuel and HFO, gas condensate and gasoline. The main advantage of the UVR is its versatility: beside the above mentioned products, these systems handle regeneration of various oils, such as turbine, industrial, transformer etc, equally well.

By purchasing a UVR unit made by GlobeCore, you can process various products with the output in full compliance with the existing norms and regulations.