Freezing Fuel / Waxing

Fuel that is exposed to very low temperatures can "freeze" - a process called "waxing".  Preventing the problems that might occur during cold weather is easier than fixing them!

During very cold weather some diesel-powered engines may experience difficulties with starting. These problems arise from the formation of wax crystals, which block fuel filters and lines.

UK diesel is manufactured to the European standard BS EN 590 and the specification of diesel is changed during winter months (16th November to 15th March) in order to improve cold weather performance properties of the fuel.  The UK is in a zone that specifies that diesel remains free of wax crystals down to minus 15 degrees Centigrade (known as the cold filter plugging point test CFPP)

With sustained temperatures below this level, particularly in exposed areas or when a vehicle is left idle for several days, blocking of filters or fuel lines may occur making it difficult to start the vehicle.

Fuel kept idle over the winter months, for example in stand-by generator tanks, is particularly prone to this issue, and it isn't helpful when you need the generator to start in an emergency, which is unfortunately more likely to occur during bad weather!

Boats and tractors that have been laid up for the winter can also suffer from waxing, making them difficult to start up in the Spring.

Fuel Set lowers the waxing point of fuel to help prevent these problems. Double dosing during particularly cold conditions, and in all stand-by generators or laid-up boats and vehicles, is advisable.