Volvo D12, Operator'S Manual

Page: 57 / 214

Fuel System 53
Cetane Number
Direct injected diesel engines require a
minimum cetane number of 40 under nor-
mal starting conditions. Fuel with a higher
cetane value may be required for high alti-
tude or cold weather operation.
Filtration
Fuel should be clean and free of contami-
nation. Clean fuels should have no more
than 0.1% of sediment and water.
If fuel is stored on site, make sure that:
•
Keep storage tank covered to prevent
water entry.
•
Do not use a tank made of galvanized
metal or any galvanized piping for
diesel oil storage. Diesel will react
with the zinc, forming solids that can
clog fuel filters and cause engine dam-
age.
•
Fuel stored for a long time may oxi-
dize and form solids, causing filtering
problems.
•
Keep the area around the fill cap
clean. Tilt the tank slightly toward the
drainplug area so water and sediment
can be easily drained.
Generally, fuel contamination occurs as the
result of improper fuel handling. The most
common types of contamination are water,
dirt and microbial growth (“black slime”).
The formation of varnishes and gums result-
ing from poor fuel stability or long storage
(“stale fuel”) also affects fuel quality. The
best treatment for contamination is preven-
tion by maintaining a clean storage system
and choosing a reputable fuel supplier.