Due to poor oxidation stability and other potential
issues, Perkins strongly recommends that engines
with limited operational time either do not use
biodiesel blends or, whilst accepting some risk, limit
biodiesel blend to a maximum of B5. Examples of
applications that should limit the use of biodiesel are
the following: Standby generator sets and certain
emergency vehicles.
If biodiesel must be used, then the quality of the fuel
needs to be periodically tested. The test must comply
with “EN15751”, commonly known as the Rancimat
Test.
Perkins strongly recommends that seasonally
operated engines have the fuel systems, including
fuel tanks, flashed with conventional diesel fuel
before prolonged shutdown periods. An example of
an application that should seasonally flush the fuel
system is a combine harvester.
Microbial contamination and growth can cause
corrosion in the fuel system and premature plugging
of the fuel filter. Consult your supplier of fuel for
assistance in selecting appropriate antimicrobial
additive.
Water accelerates microbial contamination and
growth. When biodiesel is compared to distillate
fuels, water is naturally more likely to exist in the
biodiesel. Frequent checking of the water separator
and if necessary, drain the water separator is
essential when using biodiesel.
Materials such as brass, bronze, copper, led, tin, and
zinc accelerate the oxidation process of the biodiesel
fuel. The oxidation process can cause deposits
formation therefore these materials must not be used
for fuel tanks and fuel lines.
Fuel for Cold-Weather Operation
The European standard “EN590” contains climate
dependant requirements and a range of options. The
options can be applied differently in each country.
There are five classes that are given to arctic
climates and severe winter climates. 0, 1, 2, 3 and 4.
Fuel that complies with “EN590” CLASS 4 can be
used at temperatures as low as −44 °C (−47.2 °F).
Refer to “EN590”for a detailed description of the
physical properties of the fuel.
The diesel fuel “ASTM D975 1-D” that is used in the
United States of America may be used in cold
temperatures that are below −18 °C (−0.4 °F).
In extreme cold ambient conditions, you may use the
aviation kerosene fuels that are specified in “Group 1:
Preferred Fuels”. These fuels are intended for use in
temperatures that can be as low as −54 °C
(−65.2 °F). Refer to “Group 1: Preferred Fuels” for
detail and conditions of use of the aviation kerosene
fuels.
Mixing alcohol or gasoline with diesel fuel can
produce an explosive mixture in the engine
crankcase or the fuel tank. Alcohol or gasoline
must not be used in order to dilute diesel fuel.
Failure to follow this instruction may result in
death or personal injury.
There are many other diesel fuel specifications that
are published by governments and by technological
societies. Usually, those specifications do not review
all the requirements that are addressed in Table 14 .
To ensure optimum engine performance, a complete
fuel analysis should be obtained before engine
operation. The fuel analysis should include all the
properties that are stated in the Table 14 .
Aftermarket Fuel Additives
NOTICE
Perkins does not warrant the quality or performance
of non-Perkins fluids and filters.
When auxiliary devices, accessories, or consum-
ables (filters, additives) which are made by other
manufacturers are used on Perkins products, the
Perkins warranty is not affected simply because of
such use.
However, failures that result from the installation
or use of other manufacturers devices, accesso-
ries, or consumables are NOT Perkins defects.
Therefore, the defects are NOT covered under the
Perkins warranty.
Supplemental diesel fuel additives are not
recommended and is due to potential damage to the
fuel system or the engine. Your fuel supplier or the
fuel manufacturer will add the appropriate
supplemental diesel fuel additives.
Perkins recognizes the fact that additives may be
required in some special circumstances. Fuel
additives need to be used with caution. Contact your
fuel supplier for those circumstances when fuel
additives are required. Your fuel supplier can
recommend the appropriate fuel additive and the
correct level of treatment.
Note:
For the best results, your fuel supplier should
treat the fuel when additives are required. The
treated fuel must meet the requirements that are
stated in Table 14 .
Perkins Diesel Fuel System Cleaner
Perkins T400012 Fuel Cleaner is the only fuel
cleaner that is recommended by Perkins.
If biodiesel or biodiesel blends of fuel are to be used,
Perkins require the use of Perkins fuel cleaner. For
more information on the use of biodiesel and
biodiesel blends refer to “Biodiesel Fuel”.
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