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Oil Vs. Gas Heating; Which Is The Safest? 1024 585 Star Oilco

Oil Vs. Gas Heating; Which Is The Safest?

Heating

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OIL VS. GAS – Which fuel is safer?

While a leak in your oil tank may cause temporary inconveniences, there have been no deaths or injuries associated with leaking oil tanks. The risks of injury are far greater with natural gas leaks and the statistics from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Office of Pipeline Safety show that between 1986-1998, natural gas pipeline accidents have resulted in the deaths of over 200 people, injured more than 1,700 people, and caused more than $300 million in property damage. So safety is a legitimate concern.

Is natural gas cleaner and more efficient?

This is a misperception that is refuted by studies done by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, and the U.S. Dept. of Energy. According to these studies, heating oil and natural gas produce approximately the same levels of pollutants. Natural gas is not cleaner than heating oil. According to the U.S. Dept. of Energy and the Gas Appliances Manufactures Association, heating oil equipment is actually more efficient, on average, than natural gas heating equipment.

Is either natural gas or oil better for the environment?

No. Both fuel sources cause similar amounts of pollutants in the environment. Many environmentalists are concerned about the risks to our wetlands, river and forests, that will be the impact of gas pipeline construction, and about leaks and accidents that have occurred in existing pipelines. Further, many have expressed concern about natural gas as it is a power greenhouse gas which contributes to global warming.  If you are interested in heating with a fuel that is environmentally friendly, ask us about our biodiesel home heating oil.

 

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Diesel Soaps: Identification And Negative Impact. 1024 768 Star Oilco

Diesel Soaps: Identification And Negative Impact.

Star Oilco answers: What are Diesel Soaps?

Cliff Burbrink, chemical technology specialist at Cummins Filtration, provides a layman’s definition of diesel soaps:

“Diesel soap is not very different chemically than the soap used to wash your hands. The main ingredient in a bar of soap is formed when lye reacts with fats or oils. Lye is sodium hydroxide.

Fats and oils contain fatty acids. When they react, they form sodium soaps. Diesel soaps are formed from acidic additives in the fuel [such as some corrosion inhibitors and lubricity improvers] reacting with trace amounts of sodium.”

 

Rick Chapman, Industry & OEM Liaison Manager, Innospec Fuel Specialties, adds that acids can be derived also from other sources:

“[Soaps] can also be formed from free fatty acids in biodiesel starting materials and carboxylic acids derived from oxidatively degraded fuel and/or biodiesel.”

 

From a layman’s point of view, then, the formation of diesel soaps is the result of metals, such as sodium, calcium and potassium (in the form of positively charged ions, or cations), reacting with various sources of acid in the fuel.

 

“When these two species [acidic compounds and cations (usually sodium)] come together, diesel soap can form,” says Chapman.

“There are a lot of other factors or variables that can play into it, of course, such as pH, solubility, mixing intensity and so forth—but this is the basis for it. Unfortunately, when these soaps form, assuming they are formed from additives, they make the corrosion inhibitor or lubricity improver inert, and the corrosion or lubricity protection provided by the additive is lost.”

 

 

 Diesel soaps

 

  1. Plug fuel filters
  2. Form injector deposits that lead to over-fueling
  3. Create Turbocharger problems
  4. Generate Oil dilution
  5. Cause Poor performance, and poor fuel economy

 

In a May 2013 report, “Case Study—Impact of Poor Diesel Fuel Quality on an Urban Fleet,” Cummins Filtration investigated problems with diesel engines in a New York City bus fleet.

Complaints ranged from an excessive number of turbocharger fault codes to smoke at start-up to fuel-injector failures. The investigation uncovered excessive soot deposits in the turbocharger, resulting from over-fueling, which was determined to be the result of fuel injectors sticking because of deposits that were “rich” in the metals of sodium and calcium.

Although injectors showed sign of scuffing—the result of hard particle contamination, which, says the report,

“is the greatest fuel quality concern for high-pressure/common-rail fuel systems, worldwide”

—investigators determined that scuffing was not the primary issue for the immediate problems the bus engines were exhibiting.

The culprits in this instance were “metal carboxylates” in the fuel, more commonly know as “diesel soaps.” The recommended fix for the problem was use of a fuel additive that could both clean the Injectors and minimize further deposits, coupled with much tighter filtration.

 

Another Bad Actor

 

 

 

Biofuel is manufactured by reacting a plant-derived fat or oil (usually soybeans in the United States) with an alcohol, using sodium hydroxide as a catalyst. An unwanted by-product of the process is glycerin.

Although most of the glycerin is washed out during the manufacturing process, regulations do allow 200 ppm to remain.

Biofuel usually is mixed with petroleum diesel in 5-, 10- or 20-percent concentrations to form biofuel blends, but even at these relatively low concentrations, enough glycerin remains to create filter-plugging problems when, under certain fuel moisture and temperatures conditions, it becomes a solid and drops out of solution.

To help counteract glycerin’s effects, Jim Peterson, sales manager for Donaldson’s Hydraulics and Clean Solutions Group, suggests these measures:

  • Filter fuel on the dispensing side of the bulk tank and use proper on-machine filters
  • Keep fuel dry with proper tank flushing and proper breathers
  • If possible, moderate the temperature of stored fuel above the glycerin dropout level
  • Turn over fuel as quickly as possible
  • Keep fuel infrastructure as free from particulate contamination as possible
  • Ask OEMs about using detergent additives to keep glycerin in solution, both in equipment and bulk storage

 

Filtration and Additives

 

 

 

As noted before, the contamination of diesel fuel with soaps is not as prevalent, at least in many fleets, as other sources of fuel contamination.

These other fuel contaminates include hard particulates, increased water in biofuel blends, rapid oxidation of such blends, microbial growth, so-called asphaltenes (compounds that can agglomerate into an oily sludge), acetic acid formation and glycerin.

Glycerin being an unwanted by-product of biofuel manufacturing. “There are so many inherent problems with diesel fuel today,” says Hydrotex’s Cummins, “that machine owners must take a holistic approach when attempting to resolve them.”

The best defense against diesel soaps (and for most other contaminants, as well) seems to be the use of premium filtration, like the “Donaldson clean & Dry kit which includes 4 micron particulate and water filters. The kit also incorporates a desiccant breather to absorb moisture.”

Donaldson Clean and Dry Filter kit

In addition, (tank intake, tank dispensing, and on-machine), good tank housekeeping, and a well-chosen additive package.

Additives might be included in “premium” diesel fuel offered by some jobbers, but solving a serious soap problem might require consultation with an additive supplier who can take a comprehensive, laboratory-assisted view of all the fuel-quality issues in a particular fleet.

But, the best efforts are no guarantee of complete success when dealing with diesel soaps.

“We’ve seen soap deposits form in engines that use our most effective filters—those proved to remove 99.9 percent of material 4 microns and larger and significant amounts of material smaller than 4 microns,”  says Cummins Filtration’s Burbrink.

“If soap particles don’t agglomerate before the filter, they can pass through it. When they hit the injectors, the heat can cause these particles to deposit on metal.”

 

Deposit control

 

 

 

“We have seen great success with some additives,” says Burbrink. “The use of good detergents has dropped the failure rate significantly in some applications. Unfortunately, we also have seen customers having issues even though they are using detergents.”

That said, a well-formulated additive package seems to be an integral part of the potential resolution of problems with diesel soaps.

A good, multi-functional package will contain corrosion inhibitors and lubricity improvers (some formulations use nonacid, non-reacting lubricity improvers), as well as a deposit-control agent that will assist in cleaning injectors and minimizing further deposits.

 

The Key

 

 

 

“The key to diminishing field issues is the use of a two-prong strategy,” says Innospec’s Chapman. “One, use an additive that provides the required lubricity but is resistant to reaction with metal hydroxides, and, two, use a deposit-control additive to ‘clean up’ and ‘keep clean’ any deposits that may form, regardless of the their source. Deposit-control additives are useful for reducing injector deposits, reducing filter plugging, and for carrying through trace amounts of water. In lower-dose rates, or at a ‘keep-clean’ level, they will put a protective coating on metal surfaces and not allow deposits to form—or will limit their formation.”

Hydrotex’s Cummins makes the point, too, that treatment rates for additives, a corrosion inhibitor, for example, might have to be adjusted to meet the conditions of a particular storage tank. Cummins also reminds machine owners that deposit-control additives might need time to work in certain situations: “Soap deposits can get very deep into the injectors, become sticky, and cause poor actuation of the pintle. A good additive package will help clean the injectors, but given the nature of the deposits, it’s usually not a quick fix. The process might require four or five tanks of treated fuel before improvement is noticed.”

Sunrock’s Dennis offers this suggestion to fellow fleet managers: “I would recommend that fleet managers, if they haven’t already done so, educate their fuel suppliers on the subject of upstream fuel-contamination issues and their effects on diesel engines.

Managers can use that opportunity to register their concerns about diesel soaps—for the purpose of promoting a partnership in utilizing countermeasures against diesel-fuel contamination. Their fleet reliability depends on it.”

 

 

To read more technical data on Diesel Soap click link below

SOAP AND GLYCERIN REMOVAL FROM BIODIESEL  

Star Oilco’s Commitment to Sustainability 150 150 Star Oilco

Star Oilco’s Commitment to Sustainability

Star Oilco’s Commitment to Sustainability

What is biodiesel? Is it the same as raw vegetable oil?

Biodiesel is a cleaner burning diesel fuel made from vegetable oil. Simply stated, a biodiesel molecule is a                                                              vegetable oil molecule with the glycerol removed. Chemically, biodiesel is defined as a mono-alkyl ester of                                                           vegetable oil.

Biodiesel is NOT the same as raw vegetable oil or straight vegetable oil (SVO). Diesel engines actually can                                                             operate on straight vegetable oil (SVO) as a fuel. In fact, Rudolf Diesel’s first compression ignition (Diesel)                                                            engine introduced in 1895 used peanut oil as its fuel. Modern diesel equipment, however, requires some                                                          modification to burn straight vegetable oil, and it is yet unclear the effects of straight vegetable oil on diesel                                                         engine performance and longevity.

Will biodiesel void my engine warranty?

According to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, “Original Engine Manufactures (OEM) provide a material and workmanship warranty on their products. Such warranties do not cover damage caused by external conditions, such as fuel. Thus, if an engine using biodiesel experiences a failure unrelated to the biodiesel use, it MUST be covered by the OEM’s warranty. Federal law prohibits the voiding of a warranty just because biodiesel was used – it has to be the cause of the failure. If an engine experiences a failure caused by biodiesel (or any other external condition, such as bad diesel fuel), it will not be covered by the OEM’s warranty.”

Star Oilco distributes only commercially produced biodiesel that meets ASTM D6751-03 specification – a demanding fuel testing regimen that guarantees the fuel will perform properly in your engine.

Biodiesel is considered an additive in blends less than 6% (B5). Petroleum diesel with 5% biodiesel added still meets ASTM specifications for #2 petroleum diesel fuel. The National Renewable Energy Laboratory and numerous states and federal fleets, including all branches of the U.S. Military, have performed more than 40 million miles of road testing on B20. The results of which have only been positive.

Fleets such as Yellowstone National Park and the City of Berkeley (CA) Solid Waste Management Division have had great success running diesel vehicles on pur biodiesel (B100).

Does biodiesel cost more than petroleum diesel?

Yes. The current retail price for on road B99 is $3.29 per gallon. Our customers pay a premium for biodiesel to support domestic energy sources and because of environmental concerns. Many biodiesel users experience a lower maintenance cost when they use biodiesel.

Can I use Oregon produced biodiesel?

Yes! In fact, the biodiesel you purchase through Star Oilco is produced right here in Oregon! Sequential Biofuels opened their first plant in Salem, OR in July 2005. This plant will produce 1 million gallons of biodiesel annually from waste vegetable oil. Oil sources include the Salem Kettle Chips plant. Country singer Willie Nelson is an investor in the effort.

Does biodiesel provide similar miles per gallon, torque, and horsepower?

In terms of energy contained in the fuel, a gallon of biodiesel contains slightly less energy than a gallon of petroleum diesel. For example, B20 tends to reduce fuel economy by approximately 1%. B20 users rarely report changes in torque or power. With B100, torque, power and fuel economy can be reduced by approximately 8%. However, the increased lubricity of biodiesel may help to counteract this energy difference. Some drivers report better performance with biodiesel, but most do not notice any difference.

Can I switch back and forth between diesel and biodiesel?

Yes! Biodiesel is the ultimate flexible fuel, so you can switch back and forth between biodiesel and petroleum diesel whenever necessary. Also, you can blend biodiesel with petroleum diesel in any percentage.

Is biodiesel safe to handle?

Yes! Biodiesel is ten times less toxic than table salt and biodegrades faster than sugar. The EPA has tested biodiesel’s health effects extensively and has classified it as a non-toxic substance that poses absolutely no threat to human health. Biodiesel is such a clean fuel that it is used to remediate petroleum spills in water.

Can I use biodiesel in an oil furnace (to heat my home)?

Yes! Biodiesel can be used in any diesel application. Oil #2 is the primary heating oil sold in the U.S. It is essentially the same as the diesel sold at gas stations, but contains much more of the pollutant sulfur. Sulfur contributes to acid rain formation, as well as the creation of nitrous oxides and particulate matter, both of which have serious air quality and human health impacts.

Biodiesel is just as warm as regular heating oil, but will help keep both the furnace and the air cleaner. It reduces the oily smell of the liquid fuel and makes the exhaust coming from the chimney smell better – a little like French fries. Pure biodiesel is biodegradable, and it is far less toxic than diesel. With a higher flash point, it is also less of a fire hazard. Biodiesel reduces emissions of cancer-causing compounds by up to 50%, and emissions of nitrogen oxides, particulate matter and hydrocarbons by approximately 20%.

Do I have to modify my furnace to use biodiesel?

No. B20 requires no modification to your heating system. However, biodiesel is a solvent, and will actually clean heating oil tanks and all fuel-wetted parts of a furnace. Because of this, users may experience clogging of the furnace fuel filter early on. Fuel filters are cheap and easy to replace, and the problem will end once the system is cleaned out.

If your heating oil tank is outside and/or underground,Star Oilco will only deliver B20 home heating oil. If your heating oil tank is located inside and above ground, Star Oilco will deliver B20 or B99.

Can biodiesel replace petroleum diesel?

For most of the 20th century, petroleum diesel has been consumed as though it would last forever. Experts disagree about how much petroleum is left and how long it will last. They do agree, however, that less new oil will be found and that prices will increase. Because biodiesel is “home-grown”, it provides energy security. Biodiesel can be produced on a yearly cycle, instead of a 10-million-year-cycle. While we can not displace all petroleum with renewable fuels, it is one important piece of reducing our dependence on foreign oil.

Star Oilco truck fueling a large generator during winter conditions
Treating And Refilling Your Diesel Backup Tanks 1024 768 Star Oilco

Treating And Refilling Your Diesel Backup Tanks

Here’s good advice if you are relying on diesel as a back up fuel in the Pacific NW.

Now is the time to refill and treat your back up fuel tanks.

Diesel as a back up fuel

Quite a bit of our business at Star Oilco is fueling back-up generators, emergency water pumps, refrigerated trailers and other long term off-road diesel storage requirements. In the Pacific Northwest, biodiesel blending is required by state laws and you need to take an extra duty of care when storing diesel as a back-up fuel.

This means that most off-road diesels and heating oils are ultra low sulfur diesel containing a small quantity of biodiesel.  That means long term storage requires a proactive approach.  You can’t just hope and wait to see what the fuel begins to look after years of storage.

Technical advice from Government Fleet Magazine to help you with storing diesel fuel.

Here is an article from Government Fleet Magazine on the subject which runs through the specifics of long term storage and what causes fuel to degrade when stored.  Government Fleet Magazine – How to Maintain Stored Diesel Fuel.

Star Oilco has also worked up a PDF check list on how to verify if your fuel is in need of freshening or is still in emergency ready shape.  If you are a customer of ours, we will deliver a laminated card version to keep next to your back up generator. If you are not a customer (or outside of our service area) drop us a message below and we will gladly email you the PDF.

For our customers, we recommend that you check the tank bottom fuel quality on an annual basis to make sure the product looks good. If the tank has sat for years and is dark in color (good diesel is bright and transparent – you will notice if it is in bad shape), we recommend pumping the tank out at least partially and replacing with fresh fuel. Often you can also hugely improve the quality of the fuel by polishing the fuel. Polishing is when you circulate fuel from the bottom of the tank through a pump, filter repeatedly in order to remove any sediment or growth from the fuel, and then place this fuel back in the same tank.

Look at your fuel for a bright and clear color.

For stored fuel, you also want to make sure it is stabilized and contains a biocide. Stabilizers prevent the oxidation of the fuel and prevent the effect of metals like lead, copper and zinc, which can react and degrade fuel. For heating oil systems with a return line, for instance, the fuel is flowing through a copper line to the furnace and then back to the tank in a return line.

Use additives designed to prolong the life of your emergency diesel fuel.

Biocides prevent the growth of biological activity in the tank. In scenarios whcontaminated_dieselere micro-organisms like algae, bacteria, yeasts, and other bugs are growing in your fuel, biocides can kill this growth. It is still important to remove the residual grit and other contaminants that are the hallmark of bugs growing in your tank. Usually you remove them by filtration or total turn over of the fuel. If your tank absolutely has to be clean, you can contract a tank professional to enter the tank and physically clean the tank bottom or reline the tank with either fiberglass or an epoxy resin.

Water in diesel destroys fuel quality rapidly. Check your tank for water every fall and spring.

In events where water finds its way into your storage tank, that can also be corrected by pumping the tank bottom. Additionally, you want to put in an absorbent material designed to absorb water and not fuel. If your long term storage tank has water and you are not planning to burn 100% of the fuel in the near future, DO NOT add anything that removes water by distributing into the fuel. Adding a “fuel drier” that actually pushes the water into solution with the diesel will worsen the long term quality of your fuel, not improve it. That water is where bugs find their home to grow in fuel.

Star Oilco will test your fuel at no charge if you have an open account.

Feel free to call us with any questions you may have about long term storage of diesel. Star Oil can also deliver treated diesel ready for long term storage complete with Hydrotex PowerKleen Premium Diesel additive to improve the long term storage quality of your fuel. For biocide, we use Valvtect BioGuard fuel microbiocide to kill any possible biological activity and prevent any chance of it starting.

Diesel Testing and Storage in Portland

If you have a long term diesel storage tank and you are in the Portland, Oregon area, we are here to test your fuel.  Make sure your diesel is there for you when disaster strikes.

Tank Testing Form

  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

 

For more reading on diesel fuel quality assurance:

Fight Humbug in your Diesel Tank (using Valvtect Bioguard Plus 6 to stabalize your stored diesel)

Diesel Fuel Technical Review (an easy to read and free text book on diesel fuel)

Emergency Back Up Generator Fuel Quality (designed to provide a checklist to help Facility Managers keep those back up generators ready for emergency action)

Using Desicant Breathers to keep diesel fuel dry and clean (an introductory primer on desicant breathers and how they can be used to keep long term diesel storage drier and cleaner)

Using Diesel Filters to clean up your diesel fuel quality (an introductory primer on using aggressive filtration in line with diesel fuel dispensing for fuel quality assurance)

Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) Quality, Storage, and Future Considerations 1024 1024 Star Oilco

Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) Quality, Storage, and Future Considerations

Have you ever noticed that Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) often lives in the background until suddenly it’s the reason your fleet can’t meet emissions standards or a system clogs up? DEF quality and storage isn’t just technical noise, it’s vital for keeping your SCR system happy and your operations rolling smoothly. We want to share with you what makes DEF high quality, the best ways to store it, and what trends are shaping its role in diesel emissions systems moving forward.

Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) is a crucial component in modern diesel engines equipped with Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) systems. While many fleet operators are familiar with its basic function of reducing nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions, understanding the intricacies of DEF quality, storage, supply chain considerations, and system maintenance can help businesses optimize efficiency and avoid costly repairs. At Star Oilco, we provide fleets with the knowledge and resources needed to navigate these complexities. This guide will explore the advanced aspects of DEF, from maintaining quality and ensuring proper storage to understanding emerging trends in emissions technology. 

Understanding DEF Quality and Purity 

 The quality of DEF plays a significant role in the performance and longevity of an SCR system. DEF must adhere to ISO 22241 standards, which regulate its composition, concentration, and purity. Using non-compliant DEF can lead to injector clogging, crystallization, and system failures. Even small amounts of contaminants such as dirt, fuel, or water can negatively impact DEF performance and damage expensive SCR components. 

To ensure DEF meets the necessary standards, regular testing should be performed. Refractometers can measure the urea concentration to verify the correct 32.5 percent solution. DEF testing strips can detect impurities, while more advanced lab analysis can help diagnose performance issues related to fluid quality. Purchasing DEF from a reliable, ISO-certified supplier is the best way to avoid contamination and maintain compliance. 

DEF Storage Best Practices to Prevent Contamination 

Proper storage is essential for maintaining DEF integrity. Temperature control is a key factor, as DEF should be stored between 12 and 86 degrees Fahrenheit to prevent degradation. Freezing does not damage DEF, but extreme heat can cause evaporation and reduce its effectiveness. To minimize exposure to environmental factors, DEF should be stored in opaque, UV-resistant containers to prevent sunlight from breaking down its chemical properties. 

Choosing the right storage material is also critical. DEF should be kept in plastic or stainless steel containers, as certain metals such as aluminum, copper, and zinc react with DEF, leading to contamination. Additionally, keeping storage containers sealed will prevent air exposure, which can introduce dust or debris. Managing inventory efficiently is another important aspect of storage. DEF typically has a shelf life of 12 months, but in warmer climates, its lifespan may be reduced to six months. Using a first-in, first-out (FIFO) inventory approach ensures that older stock is used before it degrades. 

Regular inspections and cleaning of storage equipment are also recommended to maintain DEF purity. Be sure to check for residue buildup, leaks, or any signs of contamination in tanks, nozzles, and dispensing systems. Training staff on proper handling procedures can further reduce the risk of accidental contamination. By taking these proactive steps, you can ensure your DEF stays clean, effective, and ready to support emissions compliance.

DEF dispensing station pump showing control panel, hose, and DEF push button

How Temperature Affects DEF Performance 

Temperature fluctuations can significantly impact DEF performance. In cold climates, DEF freezes at 12 degrees Fahrenheit, causing operational challenges for fleets. While frozen DEF does not degrade, it must be properly thawed before use. Heated DEF dispensers and insulated storage solutions can help prevent freezing issues in extreme weather conditions. It is important to avoid adding water to thaw frozen DEF, as this disrupts the precise urea concentration and compromises its effectiveness. 

On the other end of the spectrum, high temperatures can cause DEF to degrade. Exposure to prolonged heat above 86 degrees Fahrenheit can lead to evaporation and an increase in urea concentration, which may result in improper dosing and SCR malfunctions. Storing DEF in shaded or climate-controlled areas can help mitigate heat-related degradation. Seasonal changes also impact DEF consumption rates, with colder temperatures often leading to increased DEF usage as SCR systems adjust to lower combustion efficiencies. 

DEF Supply Chain Considerations 

DEF relies on a stable global urea supply, making it susceptible to market fluctuations. Since urea is also used in fertilizer production, shifts in agricultural demand, export restrictions, and production slowdowns can lead to price increases and supply shortages. In times of high demand, fleets may struggle to secure sufficient DEF, leading to increased costs and operational challenges. 

To avoid supply disruptions, fleet operators should consider strategic sourcing options. Establishing relationships with reliable DEF suppliers and securing bulk deliveries can help mitigate the risk of shortages. On-site DEF storage solutions can also provide a buffer against market volatility, allowing businesses to maintain an adequate supply without relying on just-in-time purchasing. Planning ahead for seasonal or industry-wide fluctuations in DEF availability can help fleets remain operational without unexpected expenses. 

The Economics of DEF for Fleet Operations 

DEF consumption is directly tied to diesel fuel usage, with most fleets using approximately two to three percent DEF per gallon of diesel burned. Understanding this ratio allows businesses to budget accordingly and monitor costs. Optimizing fuel efficiency can also lead to lower DEF usage, as well-maintained engines operate more efficiently and require less NOx reduction. 

Using high-quality DEF prevents costly maintenance issues. Non-compliant or contaminated DEF can cause injector clogging, pump failures, and SCR system malfunctions, resulting in expensive repairs and downtime. Some manufacturers void engine warranties if improper DEF is used, making it even more important to source DEF from a certified provider. Preventative maintenance and regular DEF quality testing can help fleets avoid hidden costs associated with poor-quality fluid. 

DEF System Failures: Causes and Prevention 

Common DEF system failures can be traced back to improper handling, storage, and contamination. Crystallization, for example, occurs when DEF is exposed to air and loses moisture, leaving behind solid urea deposits that can clog injectors and sensors. Contaminated DEF can lead to buildup in the SCR system, affecting performance and triggering warning lights that may lead to vehicle derating or shutdown. 

Preventing DEF system failures requires proactive maintenance. Regularly flushing DEF tanks, inspecting nozzles for blockages, and ensuring proper storage conditions can help prevent these issues. Using ISO-certified DEF from a trusted supplier also reduces the risk of contamination. Scheduled maintenance checks and SCR system inspections allow fleet operators to address minor issues before they escalate into costly repairs. 

The Future of DEF and Emissions Technology 

As emissions regulations continue to evolve, the role of DEF in diesel technology is likely to expand. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) continues to push for stricter NOx reduction targets, which may lead to advancements in SCR systems and increased DEF usage. Some manufacturers are exploring alternative NOx-reduction methods, such as ammonia-based catalysts or hydrogen fuel cell technology, but DEF remains the most effective solution for modern diesel engines. 

While DEF will remain a key component of emissions compliance for the foreseeable future, fleet operators should stay informed about regulatory changes and advancements in emissions technology. Investing in high-quality DEF and optimizing storage and usage practices will help businesses stay ahead of evolving environmental standards. 

DEF Myths and Misconceptions 

Several misconceptions about DEF persist, leading to improper use and maintenance practices. One common myth is that water can be added to DEF in emergencies. This is incorrect, as dilution disrupts the precise 32.5 percent urea concentration, rendering it ineffective and potentially damaging the SCR system. 

Another common belief is that DEF improves fuel efficiency. While DEF itself does not enhance fuel economy, it allows for optimized engine performance by reducing backpressure in the exhaust system. This results in better combustion efficiency, which can lead to slight improvements in fuel usage. 

A final misconception is that DEF does not expire. In reality, DEF has a shelf life and degrades over time, especially when exposed to heat or contaminants. Proper storage and inventory management are essential to maintaining DEF quality. 

How Star Oilco Ensures High-Quality DEF for Customers 

Star Oilco provides high-quality, ISO 22241-certified DEF to ensure fleets remain compliant and operational. Our bulk DEF delivery services allow businesses to secure a reliable supply, reducing the risk of shortages and minimizing costs. We also offer on-site DEF storage solutions to help fleets manage their inventory efficiently. 

In addition to supplying high-quality DEF, we assist customers with DEF system maintenance, testing, and best practices to ensure long-term reliability. With our commitment to quality and service, Star Oilco is the trusted partner for businesses looking to optimize their DEF usage and reduce the risk of SCR system failures. 

We also help customers stay up to date on regulatory changes and evolving DEF standards to ensure full compliance. Whether you’re a small fleet or a large operation, our team is ready to tailor a DEF solution that meets your specific needs.

For more information on our DEF solutions, contact Star Oilco today to learn how we can help keep your fleet running efficiently while meeting emissions compliance standards. 

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Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly does DEF do in my diesel engine?

DEF (Diesel Exhaust Fluid) is injected into the exhaust stream of modern diesel engines equipped with Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) systems. It reacts with exhaust gases to convert harmful nitrogen oxides (NOx) into harmless nitrogen and water vapor. This process dramatically cuts emissions, keeping your fleet compliant with strict EPA standards.

How long does DEF last in storage?

Stored properly, DEF generally has a shelf life of up to 12 months. However, exposure to heat can shorten this to 6 months or less, especially in warmer climates. That’s why using a first-in, first-out (FIFO) system is crucial. It ensures older DEF is used before it degrades, protecting your SCR systems from concentration issues that could cause costly repairs. 

How much DEF does my fleet actually use?

Most fleets use about 2-3% DEF relative to diesel fuel burned. That means for every 100 gallons of diesel, you’ll consume roughly 2 to 3 gallons of DEF. Knowing this ratio helps you forecast DEF needs alongside your fuel budgets.

Does DEF improve my fuel economy?

Not directly. DEF doesn’t boost fuel economy on its own. However, by reducing exhaust backpressure through the SCR process, your engine can operate more efficiently, which may lead to slightly better combustion and fuel performance over time. 

Can DEF expire even if it’s stored properly?

Yes. DEF naturally degrades over time, even under ideal conditions. Keeping it cool, sealed, and protected from UV rays slows this process, but eventually it ages out. That’s why FIFO inventory management and routine checks of DEF age are important to avoid using degraded product.

Why does DEF usage increase in colder weather?

Colder temperatures can make diesel engines burn less efficiently, leading the SCR system to dose more DEF to keep NOx emissions in check. This seasonal variance is normal, but it means winter months may see DEF usage spike slightly higher than your average.

How might future EPA emissions standards impact my DEF usage?

Regulations on NOx emissions are only getting tighter. This means future SCR systems could demand even more precise DEF dosing, or fleets might see an overall increase in DEF consumption. Staying committed to quality DEF, proper storage, and system maintenance now will help keep you ahead of regulatory curves and avoid penalties later.

How does Star Oilco help prevent costly DEF-related issues?

We supply only ISO-certified DEF, deliver it in bulk or packaged form, and provide on-site storage solutions to keep your operations protected. Our team also supports customers with DEF quality testing, maintenance guidance, and proactive system checks to help you avoid breakdowns, warranty headaches, and surprise costs.

comparison chart showing difference between off-road diesel and on-road diesel fuel in Portland OR
The Future of Diesel Fuel 940 788 Star Oilco

The Future of Diesel Fuel
Retail Diesel Dispenser Example
Retail Diesel Pumps with a variety of blends of diesel. Biodiesel, Renewable Diesel, and Fossil Diesel blends shown in Portland, Oregon.

The Future of Diesel is Low CO2 Synthetic Fuels

The stew of molecules your diesel is made of has been changing. A next level technology in chemistry is enabling garbage to be transformed into hydrocarbon fuels like diesel, jet fuel, naphtha, and propane as well as other high value chemicals. These technologies enable petroleum refineries in the United States to retool themselves and move into making biofuels with the very technology used to refine modern gasoline and diesel fuels from crude oil.  Currently oil refineries take crude petroleum and crack the molecules and reform them with a hydrotreater.  This hydrogenation is what makes renewable diesel from fats, oils and greases.

If you have ever worked under your sink at home. Remember the greasy mess inside the pipes below your kitchen sink.  These renewable hydrogenation technologies can turn that trash into a super clean high performance synthetic diesel fuel.  That waste stream along with used deep fryer oil, the animal fats from rendering and other sources is the feedstock for renewable diesel.  It is exciting and this will be the future of our diesel and jet fuels.  These fuels also have a fraction of the CO2 footprint of a fossil fuel equivalent as measured by Oregon, Washington or California’s rules to measure the carbon intensity of fuels.

Diesel Fuel in Oregon and Washington

Star Oilco has been getting questions on the changes of diesel in Portland, Oregon.  If you have not noticed, many diesel pumps at retail gas stations and cardlock have seen changing stickers on the face of the fuel pumps.  As of July 1st, 2024 the City of Portland requires a minimum 15% biofuel content of all diesel sold.  This policy is called the Portland Renewable Fuel Standard.  Portland currently plans to ramp up this requirement to a 50% biofuel blend in May of 2026.  So that every gallon of diesel sold inside the City of Portland must be half biomass based diesel products blended with fossil diesel.

This has caused quite a few changes in what fuel pumps have as their fuel for sale.  Usually people notice this change with teh color of the diesel coming out of the retail nozzle.  Diesel fuel buyers are noticing the bright yellow color of B20 biodiesel, the fully clear color of Renewable Diesel or a mix of several fuels tinting the color of their diesel.  This trend is bigger than just Portland.

Today on the west coast there are a variety of product label stickers you will see on diesel pumps.  These show the variety of diesel fuel specifications that are being sold to diesel vehicles today. Blends of petroleum ultra low sulfur diesel, R99 (99%) renewable diesel, and B99 (99%) Biodiesel are combined to meet the market needs of the diesel we all buy.

This change is because of a combination of pure market forces, government rules and local decisions by fuel haulers.  Today’s diesel not only has a commodity market for the fuel it also has a market for CO2 credit value and a cap of total petroleum diesel fuel that can be sold into a west coast state with a “Cap and Invest” program requiring blends of low CO2 biofuels, the liquid fuels sold for vehicles.

Add on top of these market forces, advances in technology used to make the liquid diesel fuel.  The diesel arriving at truck stops, gas stations, cardlock or out of a hose from a bulk truck has been changing and it’s often in good ways.  Knowing how can be helpful in navigating why diesel may cost one price or another and may have a need or maintenance that another fuel does not.

THE RISE OF RENEWABLE DIESEL

Renewable diesel, also called R99 as in 99% renewable diesel, is a synthetic diesel fuel made from the same feedstock as biodiesel. The big difference though is that renewable diesel’s finished product is hydrocarbon diesel.  Biodiesel chemically is not a hydrocarbon or made up of diesel molecules.  Renewable diesel is a biofuel, but it is also chemically diesel on a molecular level. For fuel regulation they refer to it (as well as biodiesel) as “Biomass Based Diesel” for labeling at the fuel pump.

There have been billions of plant capacity brought online in the United States for renewable diesel.  During the COVID market drop in fuel prices a number of petroleum refineries shut down, then upgraded their technology to make hydrocarbon diesel fuels out of the very biobased fats, oils, and greases biodiesel is made from.  These refineries use hydrotreating technology just like they do with a crude petroleum to make an actual hydrocarbon diesel molecule.   With this technology adoption to make diesel and jet fuels from vegetable oils and animal fats billions of gallons of low CO2 diesel fuels are coming on the market and governments are requiring it’s use, such as Portland’s Renewable Fuel Standard.

Renewable Diesel Consumption it the US Source: Alternative Fuels Data Center

THE AVAILABILITY OF BIODIESEL

The US makes billions of gallons of biodiesel.  A fuel that’s quality and performance continues to improve.  If you are not a fan of biodiesel in your fuel thinking strategically about the fuel will likely benefit your fleet operation.  The big concern with diesel fuel in a ultra low sulfur world is water and dirt suspended in the fuel affecting the performance of diesel emission systems.  With clean and drier quality specifications of B99 blend stocks today versus a decade ago the use of this fuel has grown substantially especially in the truck stop market.

When crude petroleum prices are high and therefore refined diesel prices are equally as high biodiesel is often an extremely competitive fuel.  Recently changes in Federal subsidies on biodiesel have changed this market dynamic a bit but you can presume that biodiesel will often be sold at a discount against fossil fuel diesel.  If a large seller of diesel (including petroleum refiners) can pick up pennies per gallons on millions of gallons sold they will do so.  Therefore Biodiesel is often seen in diesel in small blends even if you do not see a label on retail pump.  For blends above 5% a label is required for retail fuel sales.

R99 Renewable Diesel label indicating 99% biomass-based diesel content
Ultra Low Sulfur Retail Diesel Label
Biodiesel Blend Percentage label for retail diesel dispenser

Above are a variety of labels used to denote what fuel blend is coming out of a retail diesel dispenser. Feel free to call Star Oilco at 503-283-1256 if this confuses you and you want it explained.  We would be glad to do so.

These labels can be found together often at one pump.  All state and Federal standards require ultra low sulfur diesel for any on-road diesel sale.  The Federal standards also adopted by the states require a disclosure at the fuel pump if a blend is above 5% biodiesel.  The max allowable blend of biodiesel for diesel truck manufactures is a 20% blend.  If a truck dealership says that you cannot blend biodiesel up to 20% they need to take that up with the Federal Government because they need to support it.  This is why the label shows a blend may contain between 5% and 20% biodiesel content.

Renewable diesel is a hydrocarbon diesel. 

 

It is diesel meeting the ASTM D975 specification for diesel. 

Retailers selling blends of R99 in their fuel do not need to label it given this.  They still do label it given the benefits of the fuel’s performance and that customers are seeking that fuel.

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Many retail places will have stacked labels showing they may be blending 5% to 20% biodiesel as well as may be adding R99 Renewable Diesel to the fuel as market conditions dictate it is the more cost competitive fuel.  When seeing a label like this it can usually be assumed they are blending a R80 (80% Renewable Diesel) and a B20 (20% Biodiesel) blend of fuel.  This blend is actually believed by some to be a higher performing fuel seeing better performance that a R99 or B20 fossil fuel blend.

Fossil fuel diesels are being replaced or blended with biomass based diesels.  Be it Renewable Diesel or Biodiesel.  These blends are driven by more than one industry requirements, government rules, or other market forces. One of these being Portland’s banned on petroleum diesel through the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS). This is resulting in an increase of low-carbon biofuel blends that will ultimately move to a mix of 99% renewable fuel requirement by 2030.

Renewable Diesel and Biodiesel Blend fuel dispenser label.

The big drivers are industry specification for fuels (both labeling as well as chemical characteristics), state rules on selling these fuels, their quality assurance as well as CO2 content, and of course the market forces.  Market forces being the supply and demand availability of fuel needed to meet customers.  Less fuel available to sell means higher prices for customers.

A decade ago the market for diesel was far simpler. Though you had biofuels and some blend mandates basically you had a diesel specification accepted and the daily price as tracked by a lighted retailers sign, a wholesale market average or spot buying by some customers.   Today this market is far more complicated by government regulation on the west coast.  There are three big programs at state levels impacting this.

State Fuel Rules cause a unique need for one state or another. Whereas twenty years ago if Oregon or Washington fuel was selling for more than the Gulf Coast you might see brokers bring fuel into the region then driving down high prices.  With the creation of various complex and unique rules on diesel, imports of fuel to these low CO2 fuel states has dropped.  The amount of people moving product into west coast states has dropped.  The big rules causing this are the Cap and Invest programs of the West Coast states, the Low CO2 Fuel Standards of the states, and the fuel blend mandates of various jurisdictions of these states. For instance California now requires all off-road diesels but 99% renewable diesel.  Portland, Oregon also has a CO2 requirement and minimum 15% blend of biomass based diesel on all fuel sold in the state.

WHAT ARE THE DIESEL FUELS AND THEIR SPECIFICATIONS

Petroleum Diesel:
ASTM D975 Specification.

The ASTM D975 is a series of tests used to maintain consistent industry standard product performance for diesel fuel.  It includes among several tests cloud point, cold filter plug point (CFPP), several masurements of diesel fuel operability performance, intrained water content, sediment, carbon residue, ash, distillation, viscosity, sulfur, copper corrosion, cetane number, cetane index, aromaticity, and conductivity.

Renewable Diesel:
ASTM D975 Specification.

Renewable Diesel is following the same series of tests as petroleum refined diesel fuels.  It is the same ASTM D975 specification. Though Renewable Diesel has some different properties that exceed the ASTM specification of diesel.  Renewable Diesel is highly prized as a fuel because it typically is a cleaner and drier diesel fuel than petroleum diesel. This being seen by the tests on sediment and water content in a parts per million level.  Renewable Diesel content in diesel fuel can also be tested for looking for a C14 molecule (the chain typically created in a Hydrotreated Diesel process from fats, oils and greases.

Biodiesel (Methyl Esther):
ASTM D6751 Specification.

The ASTM for Biodiesel tests a mono-alkyl esters of long chain fatty acids derived from vegetable oils and animal fats. The testing for quality assurance covers an analysis for flash point, methanol, water and sediment, kinematic viscosity, sulfated ash, oxidation stability, sulfur, copper strip corrosion, cetane number, cloud point, acid number, carbon residue, total and free glycerin, phosphorus, reduce pressure distillation temperature, atmospheric equivalent temperature, combined calcium and magnesium, and combined sodium and magnesium.

For more on Biodiesel Use and Handling the National Renewable Energy Laboratory has a great book on the subject.

THE HISTORY OF DIESEL FUEL SPECIFICATIONS IN THE UNITED STATES

In the 1990’s the US EPA passed rules that demanded a phase out of sulfur in diesel fuel.  The presence of sulfur was very good for the fuel’s storage stability as well as fuel lubricity, but was horrible for air quality.   Additionally the big smog contributor was NOx (nitrous oxide) which was one of the EPA’s reason’s for pulling sulfur out of diesel.  For the EPA to get engine manufacturers to treat the NOx emissions at the tailpipe they needed all the sulfur gone (ultra low sulfur diesel) for modern diesel emission systems to be able to eliminate NOx as well as a host of other pollutants including particulates.

The story of changing diesel fuel standards in the US under the EPA is one of removing sulfur from our diesel fuel.  In 1996 the fuel refiners and sellers of diesel had to move the sulfur content of the fuel sold for on-road purposes to below a 500 parts per million standard. Commonly referred to as Low Sulfur Diesel fuel.   In 2006 the standard moved to a maximum of 15 parts per million of sulfur for all on road fuels.

In 2006 while the sulfur content of fuel was dropping the City of Portland released the first mandated blend of biodiesel content.  This being a 5% biodiesel blend.  The next year, the State of Oregon followed with its own Renewable Fuel Standard requiring this throughout the state.  This began the expectation of biodiesel in most diesel fuel in the Portland, Oregon area.  Washington also passed a similar policy for blending biodiesel but the enforcement and need for the fuel is less specific at Washington fuel pumps.

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Star Oilco truck refueling off-road diesel at a job site in Portland OR
Every Question We Have Been Asked About Renewable Diesel 1024 768 Star Oilco

Every Question We Have Been Asked About Renewable Diesel

Renewable Diesel Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Every Question we have been asked about Renewable Diesel

What is renewable diesel?

Renewable diesel is a synthetic diesel fuel, known for it’s lower CO2 characteristics, typically seeing purity and real world performance response superior to petroleum diesel fuel.  Renewable diesel is a next generation hydrocarbon diesel biofuel made by either the Fischer-Tropsch or Hydrogenation processes.

Hydrogenated renewable diesel is made by taking fats, oils, and greases by use of a hydro-treater.  The biomass based oil or fat is cracked and reformed in the presence of hydrogen and  catalyst forming a hydrocarbon diesel molecule.

Fischer-Tropsch renewable diesel is used by converting any btu dense feedstock (wood waste, woody biomass, municipal garbage, coal, and an endless list of low value waste products into syngas, then converting this into a wax that is reformed into hydrocarbon diesel.

Is it true that Renewable Diesel reduces CO2 emissions by more than half?

It depends on the feedstock and processes that determine the fuel pathway.  But for the most part it is safe to presume that if you use a R99 Renewable Diesel product in Oregon that it will have a lower than 50CI which would cut the CO2 emissions in half versus an equivalent gallon of gasoline used.  Sometimes Renewable Diesel can be blended with fossil fuel diesel as well as biodiesel.  Star Oilco currently presumes 99% renewable diesel is the fuel being used when describing Renewable Diesel and “cutting emissions in half” as a claim, backed up by the scientific data associated with the Oregon Clean Fuels Program and its pathways.

According to the Oregon Clean Fuels Program list of pathways for Renewable Diesel approved to be sold in Oregon shows the lowest CO2 value to be 16.36 CI and the highest to be 65CI.  Most, nearly all, of the Renewable Diesel pathways in Oregon are below 50% reduction in CO2 emissions associated with the fuel.  You can see these by reviewing the downloadable spreadsheet of “Fuel Pathways – Carbon Intensity Values” available on the left hand side of the Oregon Clean Fuels Program website under the heading “Participating Facilities” as an easy sharable link is not available.

To learn more about this please see the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality’s Clean Fuels Program page where CO2 emission pathways are disclosed for renewable fuels distributed in Oregon.  The system used to measure CO2 emissions and reduction is a modified Oregon “GREET” model.  GREET stands for Greenhouse gas, Regulated Emissions, and Energy Use in Technology. The GREET scientific system to review CO2 emissions was developed by the US Department of Energy and similar systems are used by California and Washington in their Low Carbon Fuel Standards as well.

Is HVO or Hydrogenated Vegetable Oil the same as Renewable Diesel?

Yes.  HVO is either R100 or R99 renewable diesel. The reason you will hear the phrase HVO or Hydrogenated Vegetable Oil instaed of renewable diesel is that the regulations and various incentives for renewable diesel have restrictions.  If renewable diesel is used in stationary power generation it is treated differently for the various subsidies and incentives.  The regulations on fuels for vehicles and equipment differ compared to utility scale power generation.  For this reason the power generation industry will refer to renewable diesel as “HVO” to denote it’s end use.

Is Sustainable Aviation Fuel or “SAF” the same as Renewable Diesel?

No.  Sustainable Aviation Fuel or “SAF” is a Jet A specification or a Number 1 diesel fuel. A Number 1 diesel fuel can be mixed with Number 2 without impacting it’s specification requirements.  Number 1 though cannot be mixed with Number 2 diesel weights and stay in specification.  It is a lighter end than Number 2 diesel meaning it has a different specific gravity weight of the fuel.   So in short SAF can be used as Renewable Diesel but has a much higher standard to meet than is required for Renewable Diesel. Therefore the products are very different based on this need for quality assurance to meet the aviation jet fuel specification.

There is a huge demand for Sustainable Aviation Fuel and many of the current Renewable Diesel plants in operation are upgrading their technology to make SAF.  It is expected that in the hydrotreating processes to make renewable diesel and SAF, the Jet A fuel specification is a harder one to produce.  So as the refining of SAF increases we will expect to see subgrade SAF (product made to be SAF that does not meet the standard) be moved to the Renewable Diesel market.  We will not see Renewable Diesel being used in jets though.

Can Renewable Diesel be used as Heating Oil?

Yes.  Renewable Diesel is a synthetic hydrocarbon diesel fuel.  It can be used interchangeably with petroleum diesel products of similar grade. Heating Oil is typically number 2 diesel which is the same specification as Dyed R99 Renewable Diesel (or blends of Renewable Diesel with petroleum diesel).   Star Oilco now offers R99 Heating Oil delivered in the Portland metro region area of Oregon.

Most modern oil heat appliances use a Becket Burner.  For more on heating fuel compatibility with oil furnaces and oil burning appliance please see “Alternative Fuels and Becket Burners” for more information.

Why do people use renewable diesel over petroleum diesel?

Fleet managers operating R99 Renewable Diesel report a lower mechanical cost of operation using the fuel.  Beyond the immediate benefit of R99 cutting CO2 emissions by half or more, fleets experience performance benefits from the fuel.  The big savings are seen the the performance of Tier 4 Emission systems on modern diesel seeing far less wear of the Diesel Particulate Filter system as well as far fewer regenerations of the system.  Additionally Renewable Diesel is a very clean and dry diesel fuel improving the storage stability, field operation, and general predictability of the fuel’s performance.

How do I know Renewable Diesel is being sold at a retail location?

Renewable Diesel is a hydrocarbon diesel that meets the specification for petroleum diesel known as ASTM D975 specification.  This means currently R99 can be readily blended and sold with petroleum diesel without a disclosure.  The US Federal Trade Commission and local state Weights and Measures have rules for retail pump labeling.  Blend percentages of biomass based diesel must be labeled especially if being advertised.  As R99 Renewable Diesel has a higher value and is sought out by many consumers though usually it is disclosed.  The pump labeling for R99 Renewable Diesel typically looks like the below.

R99 Renewable Diesel fuel dispenser label

What is renewable diesel made of?

Renewable diesel can be made from a host of things, usually a low value waste product. The most common feedstock used currently is waste vegetable oil, wastes from animal rendering, and other biologically derived oils. Processes using bio-oils are following a Hydrogenation process to turn low value waste oils into high value diesel and jet fuel.

Chevron Renewable Energy Group and Diamond Green Diesel (Diamond Green is in a joint venture with Valero) are the largest producer of renewable diesel with their REG Ultra Clean Diesel product in the United States. Neste is the largest producer of renewable diesel internationally, with its “Neste My” product.  being the two largest producers of low CO2 bio-oil derived renewable diesel fuels.

Major petroleum refiners have also turned around existing petroleum refineries into Renewable Diesel Refineries to produce this in demand low CO2 fuel. HF Sinclair , Marathon, Phillips 66, and Montana Renewables. There are quite a few newer Renewable Diesel projects planned and in progress around the United States as well as in the Pacific Northwest.

Other refiners of renewable diesel (on a much smaller scale of production) are using a Fischer-Tropsch process with wood waste, sorted higher grade municipal garbage, and other high btu value carbon based waste products.  Many expect this to technology to be the future of all diesel and jet fuel refining turning refuse into fungible low carbon fuel.

What is renewable hydrocarbon diesel?

Renewable hydrocarbon diesel is a synthetic diesel fuel made from non-petroleum feedstocks like vegetable oil, animal fats, municipal waste, agricultural biomass, and woody biomass. It is characterized by having a low CO2 and renewable resource for its feedstock and is made without crude petroleum, coal, or natural gas as a direct feedstock input in the refining process.

How do they make renewable diesel?

Renewable diesel is made by several processes. If you are buying renewable diesel, it is probably from a Hydrogenation process used by Renewable Energy Group and Neste for their products. Other smaller volume producers are using a Fischer-Tropsch process or Fast Pyrolysis. Both processes involve taking energy dense molecules, cracking those molecules under heat and pressure, then reforming them in the presence of a catalyst and added hydrogen, which forms a renewable diesel molecule.

Is renewable diesel a lower carbon fuel compared to petroleum diesel?

Yes, to this point all renewable diesel made from renewable feedstocks have appeared to be a lower CO2 fuel compared to petroleum diesels. The California Air Research Board in particular has done research on this in depth.

The low CO2 lifecycle emissions of Renewable Diesel also is tracked closely and supervised by California’s Low Carbon Fuel Standard, Washington’s Low Carbon Fuel Standard, and Oregon’s Clean Fuels Program. The highest value markets for low CO2 fuels in the United States are California and Oregon, which both have mechanisms that track and price the CO2 intensity of diesel fuels as well as the sustainable lower CO2 substitutes and blend-stocks that can go in those diesels. They track, rate, and determine the carbon intensity of the fuels providing a neutral and scientifically defensible number for CO2 reduction.

Is renewable diesel available in Oregon?

Renewable diesel is readily available for delivery from Star Oilco throughout the Pacific Northwest via 10,000 gallon volumes of bulk delivery.   Star Oilco is also offering bulk delivery of any size and mobile onsite fueling service within 100 miles of the Portland, Oregon market.

Star Oilco has R99 Renewable Diesel available with a Star Oilco CFN Cardlock card in Portland, Oregon.

What is the difference between biodiesel and renewable diesel?

Biodiesel and renewable diesel are very different fuels made with very different processes. In a nutshell, biodiesel is made with a simple chemical reaction that turns vegetable and animal fats into fuel. Renewable diesel is made from far more complicated process where vegetable and animal fats (as well as other feedstocks) are cracked on a molecular level and built back into synthetic diesel fuel.

What is the difference between renewable diesel and Sustainable Aviation Fuel?

The difference between the fuels is the specific gravity and general specification for what the fuel is used for. Jet fuel, or Sustainable Aviation Fuel, and on-road diesel fuel are different fuels and therefore have different specifications. Renewable diesel is typically referring to a #2 diesel specification for on road diesel use.

Sustainable Aviation Fuel or “SAF” is typically referring to “Jet A” or “JP8” jet fuel specification for fuel. This is a #1 diesel range fuel with use and handling requirements that are far more stringent than for on-road or off-road diesel fuels. Renewable jet fuel can be used as a kerosene or #1 diesel fuel but renewable diesel cannot be used as a jet fuel.

Where do I buy renewable diesel in Oregon or Washington?

Renewable Diesel is currently available for bulk delivery and mobile onsite fueling. It will soon be offered at commercial cardlock in the Portland area. It is being sold as R99 and as Ultra Clean Diesel, which is a mixture of biodiesel, renewable diesel, and petroleum diesel.

What is R99?

R99 stands for 99% renewable diesel and 1% petroleum diesel.  Federal rules over alternative diesel fuels made fuels requires that manufacturers of non-petroleum derived diesel fuels must blend a minimum 1% petroleum with the fuel to generate a Renewable Industry Number or “RIN” under the US Federal Renewable Fuel Standard. Additionally there are other incentives that require a “blender of record” to receive these tax credits.

Is renewable diesel being made in Oregon?

As of Spring 2022, renewable diesel is not being manufactured in Oregon. There is a major projects underway, Next Renewable Fuels in Port Westward, Oregon.

What is renewable diesel made from?

Renewable diesel can be made from many energy dense carbon based material.  By volume of produced product sold in the United States, vegetable oils and animal fat-based wastes are the most common feedstock. Woody biomass, agricultural wastes, and sorted municipal wastes are also sources for renewable diesel production.

Is renewable diesel made from palm oil?

Palm oil can be used as a feedstock for renewable diesel. There are producers who use palm oil as a feedstock. In the United States, feedstocks and carbon intensity are tracked closely under both Oregon and California’s fuel programs.  You can determine if a supplier is using palm oil as a feedstock through these regulated pathways.

How much does renewable diesel cost?

This is a tough question to answer given there are several markets intersecting.  From the feedstocks to the market demand for the finished product as well as both California and Oregon’s Clean Fuel Standards which place a price on the CO2 intensity of the fuel which reduces the cost of the fuel if consumed in Oregon and California.

It has consistently been trending between the same cost and over $1 a gallon higher than petroleum diesel depending on the state, you buy renewable diesel in. In California, renewable diesel is very close to petroleum diesel depending on the value of CO2 credits for lower-carbon fuels. In Oregon, it has consistently been between $.05 to $.80 a gallon higher than diesel also depending on the value of CO2 abatement associated with the fuel and what these carbon credits are trading for.

When petroleum diesel costs are high Renewable Diesel tends to be more competitive with petroleum diesel.  When petroleum diesel is below $3 a gallon the cost of Renewable Diesel by comparison is usually higher unless CO2 credits are in higher than normal demand for Clean Fuels Program demands.

Can you mix petroleum diesel and renewable diesel?

Yes. Renewable diesel and petroleum diesel can be blended in any mixture without worry. They are drop-in substitutes for each other in your fleet’s use.  Renewable Diesel is a drop-in fuel. It is a hydrocarbon diesel that will work mixed with diesel or biodiesel blends of petroleum diesel.

Green fuel nozzle representing renewable diesel with Star Oilco logo - serving Oregon and Washington fleets.

Learn more about renewable diesel and how it can benefit your operations. Contact us today.

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Clear Premium Non-Ethanol Gasoline. 683 1024 Star Oilco

Clear Premium Non-Ethanol Gasoline.

Do you need Non-Ethanol Gasoline delivered in the Portland, Oregon area?

If you are looking for Non-Ethanol Premium Gasoline delivered to your bulk tank or available at a Commercial Cardlock, Star Oilco has your needs covered in the Pacific Northwest.

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Premium Unleaded without Ethanol in the Gasoline

Nonoxy Premium is the fuel you want in a gasoline tank if you are storing equipment with a full tank of fuel.

Premium gasoline without any ethanol blended into it goes by several names.  Clear premium unleaded, Non-Oxy (non-oxygenated) premium, nonethanol gasoline, or Clear 91 Octane are a few of the terms used.  Regardless of what it is called, getting gasoline without ethanol in the Portland, Oregon area requires buying a premium rated gasoline.

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Clear Gasoline Premium bulk tank delivery

Why is the only ethanol free gasoline in Oregon and Washington premium grade of 92 octane?

This is because of several laws in Oregon as well as Washington that require the blending of 10% ethanol with all gasoline with the exception of premium grades for small engines, classic cars, aviation uses, and other type specification needs.

With the blend requirements for 10% ethanol this changed the way gasoline was supplied in the Pacific Northwest.  This was caused by the octane ratings of gasoline.  Regular gasoline is a 87 octane rating.  E98 ethanol has a 107 octane rating. With this blend requirement, the gasoline changed to account for the high octane of ethanol.  So refiners and sellers of gasoline began to use what the industry calls a “sub-octane” gasoline at 85 octane because the guaranteed blend of 10% ethanol would boost the octane rating back up to 87 octane.

This is usually where people ask: “Why does this effect premium unleaded as well, and why the heck is clear premium so expensive?”

There are three reasons nonoxygenated gas costs more:

1- Ethanol is a lower cost fuel than gasoline, so less ethanol means a slight higher price of the fuel.

2- Fewer terminals carry a non-ethanol option for Premium unleaded reducing options for customers demanding the fuel and therefore higher prices.

3- CO2 regulations have raised the cost of fuels without biofuel blends in them as well.

REASON 1

The reason why is for several decades before the 10% ethanol blend mandate, the industry has been upgrading retail gas stations, cardlocks, and truckstops to blend regular gasoline and premium gasoline to the midgrade gasoline at the island. With a 10% ethanol blend mandate for regular unleaded and midgrade this required any and all retailers with blending pumps to use E10 (10% ethanol) premium to be legal with their midgrade product sold.  This also means that a non-ethanol premium pump requires a stand alone pump, line set up, and infrastructure need.

REASON 2

The blend mandates for gasoline caused all of the major branded gas station chains to move to a defacto 10% blend at the terminal level reducing availability of non-ethanol or “Clear” premium gasolines. With far fewer petroleum terminals, brokers, refiners, and other upstream wholesale dealers of gasoline exiting the non-ethanol gasoline market due to far lower volumes of it, the price went up.  This also means that there is far less volume of ethanol free premium unleaded being sold at the wholesale level. Reducing the volume of sales of a single fuel grade raises the cost risk in a volatile commodity market like gasoline.

REASON 3

Recently the entire western coastal states (Oregon, Washington, and California) passed laws around CO2 emissions and liquid fuels like gasoline.  This means that there is a cost for fossil fuels over biofuels which prices into the gallon of fuel.  The less biofuel the higher the CO2 cost for those buying it. Add to that the western states have Cap and Invest rules which put a total limit on volumes of fossil fuels.  These “Cap at the Rack” charges for fossil fuel have been as high as a full $1 for a gallon of fossil fuel in past years.  Cap at the Rack charges on fossil fuel gasoline is usually in the $.40 a gallon added cost range of the price you pay.

If Clear Premium Gas is so expensive why do people still use it?

It is the optimal fuel for small engines that have a habit of being stored for long periods of time without use.  Nonethanol fuel stores stable for a longer time and has a better cold start performance than an E10 gasoline fuel that has sat for over a year.  Add to that it also does not absorb water or impact plastic/rubber/elastomer seals in equipment.  That is why people prefer it.  Sure, the limited availability of terminals carrying this product makes it a specialty in Oregon and Washington.  But the added cost is worth it for sensitive low tolerance engines or for vehicles with long periods of storage between uses.

Choose Star Oilco as your fuel provider for your clear premium non-ethanol gasoline

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Star Oilco fuel tanker truck delivering diesel to refrigeration unit during icy winter conditions
Do you need Refrigerated Trailer fuel? We fuel reefers automatically. 1024 768 Star Oilco

Do you need Refrigerated Trailer fuel? We fuel reefers automatically.

Refrigerated Trailer Fueling Service.

Dyed Diesel delivered to your trailer.

Need to keep your refrigerated trailer running during the summer heat in the Pacific Northwest? When temperatures rise, having a reliable reefer trailer is more important than ever to protect your inventory. That’s where Star Oilco comes in. Our team provides fast, dependable refrigerated trailer fuel delivery in Portland, Salem, Vancouver, and nearby areas. We’ll keep your cold storage trailers fueled and your goods safe, so you can focus on your business, not the weather.

Keep your refrigerated trailer running with our automatic keep full program.

Reefer trailer fuel service

Refrigerated trailers, often also called “reefers” in trucking.  These are popular in grocers, food processors, and many other industries. Reefers expand refrigerated inventory for grocers during the food rush of the holidays, and Star Oilco is ready to keep your inventory cold.

Star Oilco is the Portland area’s leading refueler of refrigerated trailers. We’re ready to help you expand your on hand inventory by supplying dyed diesel for your refrigerated trucks. We have the industry’s lowest price for service, a flat fee of $65 for service on an automatic keep full schedule. We’ll keep your inventory the right temperature this holiday season! Our trucks are ready and on the road driving past your location. This program is designed specifically in response to grocers and food processors needing a partner to simplify their refrigeration needs during their busiest time of year.

We make it one less thing to worry about.

How often should you fuel your refrigeration trailer?

Reefer Trailers typically can run for two days without a refuel if opened only once or twice a day.  Three days if you go a weekend without opening the trailer if fueled on Friday.  If you have staff leaving the door open regularly expect to need fuel daily.

Refrigerated trailer fueling. Keep full program.

Call for service. The first step is to open an account or run the service on a credit card, fleet card, or other payment method used by your business. 

Star Oilco can provide either Ultra Low Sulfer B5 Diesel, or low CO2 R99 Renewable Diesel to your reefer. All fuels are dyed and for off-road use to avoid the expensive taxes associated with using clear diesel from a gas station pump. All of our dyed diesel is treated with Hydrotex PowerKleen Premium Diesel. This additive guarantees long-term storage stability and improves performance at time of combustion.

A refrigerated trailer typically burns between 10 and 15 gallons a day in the Portland area during the winter. In our experience, fuel burns faster if the door is continually opened. Some customers are able to get by with service twice a week. Given this experience, we usually recommend a refill schedule of three days a week. This ensures you have no downtime or worry with the refrigerated trailer.

Customers on automatic keep full schedule receive emergency response services for fuel theft at no additional charge. We will be there for you to make running your business that much easier.

Also remember if you are storing a trailer onsite for back up or overflow purposes you will want to prepare the fuel in the tank for long term storage. Star Oilco’s fuel additives ensure the storage and make sure your refrigerated trailer fires when you need it to.

To set up Refrigerated Trailer Refueling Service call or email our office.

We are ready to keep you full.

Construction equipment fuel delivery service

Message us below if you want to get a call back from our Dispatch about setting up service or call 503-283-1256 for immediate service.

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Backup Generator Fuel 1024 1024 Star Oilco

Backup Generator Fuel

Star Oilco Generator Refueling Service in the Portland area.

Line up a Generator Diesel Keep Full account with Star Oilco before the bad weather.

Need fuel for your backup generator? Star Oilco delivers emergency diesel fuel right to your location before the power goes out and while you’re relying on it. We offer fast, reliable backup generator fuel delivery in Portland, Oregon, Vancouver, Washington, and surrounding areas. Whether you’re powering a business, hospital, data center, or another business that uses a backup generator, you can count on us to keep your generator fuel tank full, your lights on, your business running and your customers served.

 

Commercial Fleet Fueling in Portland

 

Remember that ordering diesel for your generator is a specialized service.

You want to stabilize and treat your diesel for generators and other back up equipment.

Order fuel treated for long term storage!

We often receive questions about backup generators, backup water pumps, and other emergency equipment. Fueling these critical pieces of equipment is a special kind of fueling service but we’re here to answer all your questions. We also encourage you to call with questions about generator fuel.  If you have questions about your building’s back up diesel generator’s fuel quality in the Portland, Oregon area we will sample and test your fuel at not cost with if you have an account with Star Oilco.

Generator Fuel is a specially treated oxidative stabalized off-road fuel designed to store for years.

Fuel for a backup generator is a specialized product. Besides the fuel, the service itself takes a vendor who understands your needs and can keep you up and running in an emergency.

Generators take off-road diesel, of course, but you want an ultra low sulfur diesel to ensure it works with modern emission systems. Some companies may deliver a higher sulfur heating oil product that looks the same but can foul the emission systems of your equipment.

Backup Generator Fuel in Portland

Beyond just the service provided by a truck and driver, you also want a vendor who offers a fuel stabilizer and biocide for the special long term storage needs of your backup generator. Star Oilco recommends you add a biocide and long term storage stabilizer to your fuel to ensure it is good whenever you need it. We use Valvtect Bioguard Plus 6 for generators, emergency water pumps, backup boiler fuel, and other long term storage purposes. This product kills any existing biological growth and stabilizes your fresh diesel fuel for long term storage. Make sure your diesel is ready the next time you need backup power.

As a complimentary service to our customers, Star Oilco will also test fuel for its quality. If you want to confirm fuel quality at the time of a top off, let us know and we will ensure the driver has a sample kit to get your backup fuel tested for peace of mind.

Feel free to message us if you need a backup tank filled. If you are in charge of Corporate Fueling, please call with any questions you may have.

Read more about stabilizing your generator fuel for long term storage.

Keep it simple with Star Oilco. We make it easy for you to be prepared. Don’t wait for a power outage to find out your generator is low on fuel. Trust Star Oilco for fast, dependable diesel fuel delivery for backup generators in Portland, Salem, Vancouver, and throughout Oregon and SW Washington. Whether you need on-site generator fueling, dyed diesel, or emergency fuel service, we’re ready to help. Call (503) 283-1256 today to schedule your standby generator fuel delivery and ensure your power stays on when it matters most.

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