StarOilCo

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Why should my fleet use Pacific Pride fuel cards? 1024 683 Star Oilco

Why should my fleet use Pacific Pride fuel cards?
Star Oilco Pacific Pride corporate fuel card

Pacific Pride Fleet Fuel card by Star Oilco

 

                      A prospective customer asked recently:

          “Why should I use a Pacific Pride fleet card over a gas station credit card?”

Here’s our answer:

There are many reasons to use a commercial cardlock solution for your fleet. The biggest reason why you should use Star Oilco for your cardlock needs is that we are a locally owned and operated business that will take the time to tailor a card program to your specific fleet’s needs by asking questions like:

  • What is the greatest risk of theft that we can secure against?
  • Where is the greatest opportunity for savings in how you fuel?

Fleet card sellers and the larger cardlock companies are often focused on making your needs fit their product. Star Oilco focuses on YOU.  That’s a big difference.

          With Star Oilco, you don’t have to choose between price or convenience

PRICE: Cardlock locations do not use a credit card satellite to run transactions. This means you’re saving 2% to 4% right off the bat by using Pacific Pride or CFN, because cardlock operators taking are not charging you to run your bill through a Visa or other network. Plus, by pulling into a gas station to buy fuel, you’re often forced to pay $.10 a gallon more to use a Comdata, WEX, Voyager, Mastercard or Visa backed fleet card.

With Pacific Pride, you won’t face this charge because it’s on Fleetcor’s network. And by working with a local Pacific Pride franchisee who owns the location, you’ll benefit from their ability to offer additional savings at their location that are not available to anyone else. They own the fuel and therefore have ultimate control on saving you money.

CONVENIENCE: With convenience, comes risk. With Star Oilco’s modern cardlock offering, we can secure your risk and still enable several levels of convenience and access, dependent on your customized fleet need.

                                                     We keep things simple

                                             

24-7 Convenience with Easy to Access Fueling Facilities

Clean, well-lit and large truck friendly cardlock facilities. Cardlock is made for business and if you are operating doubles and triples, we can work with your staff to map out the easy in-and-out high-flow diesel fueling options for your drivers.

Industry-Leading Card Security

We offer a wide range of solutions that allow you, as a fleet manager, to lock down and protect your fleet from theft. If you only operate in specific areas, we can turn off whatever cards you want to not operate outside of where you want your trucks. If you don’t operate after a certain time of day we can turn non-management cards off to guard against after-hours sales fuel theft.

Email Notification for Total Control

See fuel transactions in real time. When your drivers make a fuel purchase at Pacific Pride or other affiliate fueling locations, an email will notify you or your dispatch. If your drivers are following your processes and procedures for fuel procurement, it will be easy for you to immediately reinforce the rules instead of waiting for a bill. Better yet, if something is wrong with the fuel purchase (out of area/time/product), you will know immediately a problem has occurred and can respond accordingly.

Flexibility or Structured Control.  We offer both!

Whether you want your drivers to be able to get fuel and get on the road as fast as possible or stay locked into a specific zip code of only the lowest-cost commercial cardlock locations, we can make that happen. And not only do we make it easy, we can shift gears quickly to stay ahead of your evolving business needs.

Total Accountability for Fuel Usage

Total accountability means added convenience for your controller, CPA and HR manager. Beyond designing simple security features, we can:

  • Align fuel usage with your vehicle license plates by providing a private PIN to your employees.
  • Track miles per gallon in the vehicles to confirm if the fuel actually went into that vehicle or not.
  • Customize billing to link employee names to card usage.

Bottom line: You will know which vehicle took what fuel and who the person was who fueled it. And when an unlikely fueling occurs, you will have evidence of the person who did it and that the vehicle’s mileage is off, providing proof if needed. Combine Pacific Pride’s total control with a “No Tolerance Fuel Theft Policy” for additional authority to fire fuel thieves under any state’s employment laws.

Simple and Accurate Fuel Management and Reporting

Star Oilco’s system enables easy reports anytime you want them. If you require a CSV file or other report for your operation, tax reports, budgeting or other business needs we are there for you to make this easy.

Commercial Diesel Pricing with Volume Discounts

Pacific Pride commercial cardlocks are priced from the wholesale market rate. Our price is straightforward and based a daily OPIS Wholesale Rack report from your local market.  Instead of retail posted price signs where the corner gas station is trying to get as much as they can, our diesel fuel is priced on a cost plus basis. This is far more transparent and will save you money compared to retail on diesel fuel. When prices are high, our prices are far more fair. When prices fall, we fall with the wholesale market from the OPIS Average the day the market starts moving down. Pacific Pride locations are also designed with high speed diesel pumps that save large trucks time.

Try Pacific Pride to see for yourself!

To sign up for Star Oilco’s Pacific Pride fleet card or ask questions:

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Star Oilco is an independent franchisee of Pacific Pride

Star Oilco black fuel truck parked on rural road with trees in background
How to save money while fueling your fleet. 1024 768 Star Oilco

How to save money while fueling your fleet.

With recent high diesel and gas prices, saving money on fuel is a priority for many fleets.  Star Oilco is here to help you contain the hidden costs of fuel with our fleet card solutions. 

If you are a fleet manager or in charge of corporate fueling and you use retail gas stations, this article is designed to talk you out of it.

Every year, Star Oilco helps small businesses save labor and protect themselves from theft. It’s the little costs we don’t watch that can add up and really cost a business. We help businesses keep a complicated fuel bill easy to manage.  Be it moving to mobile-onsite fueling, a totally secure fleet card solution, or a combination of the two consolidated onto one bill Star Oilco is here to make things easy.

With wages and fuel costs rising together containing those costs is a priority for every fleet.  Both the labor cost sunk in fueling your own fleet as well as the actual cost of the fuel bought, many of our conversations are around how to structure a clear view of this.  We have solutions and can provide a clear view of your fuel costs via Star Oilco’s Keep it Simple Fuel Audit.

Usually the only time a fuel bill is really examined is after a record setting month for overtime, a huge jump up in the commodity cost of fuel, or a giant volume of fuel theft was discovered.  Essentially, when costs have ballooned out of what they should be that is when businesses dig in and pay attention.

If that describes your need, Star Oilco has a proven system to bring your fuel cards under control and return honest employees to the straight and narrow or document the thieves so you have red-handed proof.  If you are local to Oregon and Washington we can also combine this with the labor savings of wet-hose fueling of your fleet.

Whether it’s with a secured cardlock program or on-site fleet fueling at your business location we can make fuel secure, simple, and at a lower cost than retail. We do this by tailoring your fuel cards to your actual business needs.

If you don’t operate on weekends and after 9pm at night, we make sure the fuel cards that serve that part of the business are not usable during those times. We also attach the name of the person fueling to the bill so you don’t have to research or wonder–you always know who it is. Additionally, we can send an e-receipt to your dispatch the moment anyone buys fuel. This ensures you are managing fuel buying habits in real time, not at the end of the month after the bill arrives.  Also every transaction on your bill can show the name of the human being who got fuel to really shine a light on who is doing what.

At the end of every month most businesses are looking at their bottom line and considering how to control the expense side of the equation. With retail gas station fuel, it can be tricky trying to control cost. If you focus solely on the cost of fuel itself, savings can be allusive in the long run. In fact the greatest tragedies in business usually are the things you don’t see in any statistic, especially the price you pay up front versus over all. The two largest controllable fuel expenses we consistently see are labor and avoiding theft.

If you are curious after reading this, the first step with Star Oilco is a Keep it Simple Fuel Audit performed by our team. Call us if you want to audit your fuel process.

What’s in the price of a gallon of gas or diesel? At Star Oilco we Keep it Simple.

Keep it simple when looking at your bill. There are only a few things in the cost of a gallon of gas or diesel: the commodity cost of fuel, the taxes on fuel, and the margin of the person selling fuel to you. Regardless of where you buy or how high or low the cost, that is what influences your fuel cost. If they call it something else, it’s really marginal and you should negotiate as such. The commodity cost is about the same no matter what. Even the largest buyers in a market are only saving a few pennies and your price per gallon will not be influenced more than a few pennies by this. Taxes should be the same and are easy to verify on Google. Margin is all that’s left. So if you ask your vendor to provide you a cost plus basis it should be very doable. All businesses have cost including oil companies, but they should be able to clearly describe what it costs for them to deliver or supply a gallon of fuel to you.

The cheaper the retail price the longer the wait.

The cheaper the retail price the longer the wait.

Focus on your business’s labor, not on the price per gallon.

If you analyze it, usually your cost of labor to fill up your own vehicles costs more than what the local gas station makes selling you fuel. Add up your cost of labor and the vehicle and know that you are losing probably twenty minutes to a half hour to pull out of route, pull over, and fill up. If you are routing your drivers to save money on a retail street price, you are paying far more for your driver’s to chase savings than you will ever see in savings. The bigger the posted retail savings the longer the line your drivers will wait in as well, making it even more costly to your bottom line.

Remember that if a convenient excuse exists, some will use it. If the answer to why it took so long is consistently because they had to stop and get diesel. Fix that permanently with a fleet fueling company that provides on-site   refueling.

Pride Advantage Sample Card

Prevent theft and keep honest people honest.  

As fuel prices jump from time to time, fuel theft takes off as well. For some people, stealing fuel for their personal vehicles can be almost irresistible. Make it very clear that you do not tolerate theft and that you can verify it clearly. With a “Zero Tolerance Fuel Theft Policy” you can get ahead of this eventuality and stop it long before it starts. There are thousands of stories of thousands of dollars in fuel stolen by seemingly good people. It always starts with one person doing it and influencing other employees to think it’s okay. Make sure it is clear that it is not only not-okay, but will be seen and punished. A few years ago a $2.4 Million theft occurred by an unsecured fleet card policy. Though the size of this theft is unbelievable, know if you aren’t tracking fuel purchases with a secret PIN that attaches the name of who did it to the fuel bill, you might be positioning yourself for the same exposure.

As you look at your month end P&L Statement, think about the bigger picture, the bigger costs in your business and that you can engineer systems that give you more control over these costs. Though Star Oilco accepts Voyager, WEX and Comdata cards, we are passionate and feel the Pacific Pride’s solutions are the best for a small business seeking to control their fuel purchase and knocking out theft. If you have questions about how to save on labor and stop theft before it starts, call Star Oilco for a tailored examination of how you buy fuel and how you can save money. We provide Pacific Pride and Fuel Management solutions nation wide in the United States. We can help you get your fuel under control.

Contact Star Oilco to save money on gas and diesel.

Star Oilco is a proud independent Franchisee of Pacific Pride

Pacific Pride Cardlock Fuel Security

 

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Stop fuel theft- Pacific Pride fleet cards 512 440 Star Oilco

Stop fuel theft- Pacific Pride fleet cards

Fuel Cards that stop fuel theft with easy to use security controls.

Fuel theft is a very real expense fleets should be thinking about how to avoid.  Every fleet is experience more turn over in their driver pool than they want.  This can cost your business in more than just training expense and overtime.  Add in rising gas prices impacting your entry level employees and an unlocked fuel card is a huge temptation.  Remove the temptation of fuel theft and keep honest drivers honest with Star Oilco’s secure fleet card solution.

Get real time e-receipts when your employees buy fuel with your fleet card.

Having control and real time awareness of what is happening in your small business is a critical piece for growing a successful business. With Star Oilco’s Fleet Cards you can control your fuel cards by only turning them on in the zip codes or states you want to operate in. You can also shut the cards off for weekends and evenings so that when your business isn’t open either is the ability for a dishonest employee to steal fuel.  Our cards also offer real time e-receipts emailing you who is buying fuel where and when enabling your team to reinforce you fuel policies at the moment someone violates it.

Control where, when, and what product can be purchased with your business fleet card.

In Pamona, California two men altered a van to steal thousands of gallons of gas with a stolen credit card.  Credit cards are not designed to secure a business or an individual from fuel theft. Pacific Pride fleet cards are. Especially for corporate or small business fueling.

Similarly in St. Petersberg, Florida an employee used a company fuel card without security controls to steal over $3,000 in gasoline.  Pacific Pride’s controls make this type of theft extremely transparent and easy to get ahead of.

Star Oilco’s Pacific Pride fuel cards can secure your small business from this kind of threat. Be it a special van altered with a giant tank or an employee fueling up his wife’s car while fueling his own company vehicle we can prevent the risk of huge theft.

Pacific Pride Fueling Network Provider

Use a fleet card that sets controls on the gallons that can be bought, time of day, and area of town a card can be used in.

How we do this is with the designed Pacific Pride system which limits your fleet cards to total gallons per transaction, number of transactions a day, time of day, and locations you would actually need fuel. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. A gallon of restriction literally might be worth tens of thousands of dollars of possible theft. Call us for more information. 503-283-1256

Star Oilco is an Independent Franchisee of Pacific Pride. We are there to make commercial fueling simple for you.  For more information on preventing fuel theft, saving money on fuel, or simplifying your fuel management all you have to do is ask. We want to help.

For Star Oilco’s Whitepaper on stopping fuel theft please go to www.NoMoreFuelTheft.com page to download it.

Fuel bill audit best practices

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Pacific Pride commercial fueling station with text highlighting cost-saving benefits of using cardlock fuel cards.

Using a Pacific Pride cardlock fuel card helps businesses save through wholesale pricing, detailed fuel usage reports, enhanced security, and real-time e-receipts.

Blue diesel-powered emergency generator outdoors
Backup Generator Fuel – Keep Full 1024 1024 Star Oilco

Backup Generator Fuel – Keep Full

Star Oilco Generator Refueling Service in the Portland area.

Set 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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Bio-diesel and Feed-stock samples at REG
What Types of Feedstock Can Be Used To Make Biodiesel? 700 525 Star Oilco

What Types of Feedstock Can Be Used To Make Biodiesel?

               What Types Of Feedstock Can Be Used To Make Biodiesel?

        To answer what feedstocks can be used to make biodiesel we need to first answer:  What is Biodiesel?

Biodiesel is created through a process called transesterification.  Transecterification is when an alcohol such as methanol or ethanol is added to an oil or fat.  This creates methyl esters and glycerin.  Methyl esters is the scientific name of Biodiesel.  Because biodiesel needs a fat or an oil to start with, this fuel can can be created with any number of feedstocks.  If you would like to learn more about Biodiesel check out this for more questions about biodiesel.

According to the U.S. Office of Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy:

“A feedstock is defined as any renewable, biological material that can be used directly as a fuel, or converted to another form of fuel or energy product. Biomass feedstocks are the plant and algal materials used to derive fuels like ethanol, butanol, biodiesel, and other hydrocarbon fuels. Examples of biomass feedstocks include corn starch, sugarcane juice, crop residues  such as corn stover and sugarcane bagasse, purpose-grown grass crops, and woody plants. “

Renewable Energy Group (REG) performed a study in 2009 with the support of the Iowa Power Fund Board and the Iowa Office of Energy Independence that tested 36 individual feed-stocks.  Star Oilco will be spotlighting these feedstocks through our blog and our social media. The full report can be found on their site if you would like to read ahead or explore the results in more depth. We hope you find these as interesting as we did!

Bio-diesel and Feed-stock samples at REG

Above photo taken at REG headquarters in Ames, Iowa.

This first blog highlights the following 2 types of feed-stock:

                                                            Babussa Oil & Beef Tallow

Babassu Oil

Attalea speciosa

Babassu oil is extracted from the seeds of the babassu palm tree, Attalea speciosa, an evergreen tree growing to 30 m (98ft) by 20 m (65ft) at a slow rate. It is hardy to zone (UK) 10 and is not frost tender. The flowers are pollinated by bees and other insects. The tree is common in Brazil, Mexico, and Honduras; it grows well in areas typically cultivated for coconut or palm. The kernels contain 60-70% oil, appear transparent, and smell like walnuts. In its natural form the oil is liquid at 20-30°C (68 – 86°F). The seeds are edible and the oil is used in margarine, soaps, detergents, lamp oil and skin products. Oil extraction results in a cake containing 15-25% protein (depending on the shell content), which is a valuable feedstuff.

In February 2008, Babassu palm oil and coconut oil were blended with jet fuel to power a Virgin Atlantic Boeing 747 during a test flight from London’s Heathrow to Amsterdam.

Babassu oil is extracted from the seeds of the babassu palm treeBabassu Oil Chart

Beef Tallow

Tallow is a rendered form of the waste fats and greases from processing beef. Rendering is a process by which lipid material is separated from meat tissue and water under heat and pressure. Beef tallow is primarily made up of triglycerides and it is solid at room temperature. The B100 that is created from this source has a very high cloud point. “Cloud point is the temperature at which wax (paraffin) begins to separate when oil chilled to a low temperature, and it serves as an important indicator of practical performance in automotive applications in low temperatures.”  (Source)  The other uses for tallow include animal feed, soap, cooking and in the past, candles.

Beef Tallow Animal tissue is converted to tallow using rendering; a process by which lipid material is separated from meat tissue and water under heat and pressure.Beef Tallow Chart

 

Article 2 Feedstock : Borage Oil & Camelina Oil

Article 3 Feedstock : Algae Oil & Canola Oil.

Article 4 Feedstock : Castor Oil and Choice White Grease

Article 5 Feedstock : Coconut Oil and Coffee Oil

Article 6 Feedstock : Evening Primrose Oil and Fish Oil

Article 7 Feedstocks : Hemp Oil & High IV and Low IV Hepar

Article 8 Feedstocks : Jatropha Oil, Jojoba Oil, & Karania Oil

Article 9 Feedstocks : Lesquerella Oil & Linseed Oil

Article 10 Feedstocks – Moringa Oil & Neem Oil

Article 11 Feedstocks – Palm Oil & Perilla Seed Oil

Article 12 Feedstocks – Poultry Fat & Rice Bran Oil

Article 13 Feedstocks – Soybean Oil & Stillingia Oil

Article 14 Feedstocks – Sunflower Oil & Tung Oil

Close-up of golden liquid waves symbolizing fuel energy in motion
Oil Vs. Gas Heating – Which Is The Safest? 1024 585 Star Oilco

Oil Vs. Gas Heating – Which Is The Safest?

Heating

Automatic Keep Full Delivery
· On Approved Credit
· Budget Plan Available
· Optional Tank Contracts
· Optional Service Contracts
· Senior Citizen Discount Available
· Prompt Pay Discount Available

Will Call Delivery
· Cash/Check discounts available
· Payment Plan (on approved credit)
· Senior Citizen Discount Available
· Prompt Pay Discount Available

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.

 

Star Oilco black fuel truck parked on rural road with trees in background
Diesel Soaps: Identification And The Negative Impact. 1024 768 Star Oilco

Diesel Soaps: Identification And The 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
Diesel Backup Tanks – Treating and Refilling 1024 768 Star Oilco

Diesel Backup Tanks – Treating and Refilling

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.