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How to Prevent Diesel Fuel from Gelling in Low Temperatures

When the chill of winter arrives in Portland and across Oregon, diesel engines face a unique challenge. Cold temperatures can transform diesel fuel from a fluid state into a gel-like substance, leading to significant engine issues. Understanding and combating these cold-weather challenges is crucial for optimal diesel performance

Understanding Cold-Weather Diesel Challenges

The Science Behind Fuel Gelling and Wax Crystallization

Diesel fuel has a natural reaction to cold weather because it contains paraffin waxes. These waxes are helpful in warm weather because they provide energy to the fuel. But when temperatures get colder, the waxes start to solidify, just like water turns into ice when it freezes. As the temperature drops, the waxes form crystals that grow larger and make the fuel thicker.

This process is called crystallization, and it makes the fuel less fluid, which can cause gelling. When diesel fuel gels, it becomes thick and sludgy, like a semi-solid. This makes it difficult for the fuel to flow through the engine, which can lead to serious problems for diesel engines.

The formation of these wax crystals is a big issue because they can clog fuel lines and filters, stopping the engine from running properly. When fuel can’t move smoothly through the system, engines can stall or fail to start altogether. This is why gelling is such a major concern for diesel engines during cold weather, and it’s important to find solutions to prevent it from happening.

Introduction to Cold Flow Improvers

To address the issue of gelling, additives known as cold flow improvers have been developed. These chemical additives prevent diesel from gelling in cold temperatures by targeting wax crystals in the fuel. They keep these crystals small and dispersed, ensuring diesel remains fluid and pumpable. This functionality is crucial for maintaining smooth engine operation and fuel system efficiency in cold climates, such as those experienced in Portland and other areas of Oregon, without altering the diesel’s inherent properties.

How Cold Flow Improvers Work

Because of this, the fuel stays fluid and can still flow smoothly, even when temperatures drop. Cold flow improvers help ensure that diesel engines run properly in cold weather by keeping the fuel from gelling up. This keeps fuel filters from clogging and helps the engine perform better, so vehicles and equipment can operate reliably, even in the winter

Benefits of Cold Flow Improvers

Cold flow improvers have proven valuable for businesses in Portland, OR, that rely on diesel-powered equipment, especially during the chilly, wet winter months. Here are a few examples of how these additives can benefit equipment performance:

• Problem: Diesel fuel can start to gel when temperatures dip, leading to clogged fuel lines and filters. This is especially problematic for trucks, construction equipment, and other diesel-powered machinery that operates outdoors.
• Solution: Cold flow improvers lower the temperature at which diesel fuel thickens, preventing gelling. This keeps machinery running smoothly during cold snaps, even when temperatures fluctuate widely across Portland’s winter.

• Problem: Delivery trucks and transport services often face delays or downtime due to fuel issues in the winter, as fuel flow can slow or stop altogether.
• Solution: By using cold flow improvers, delivery companies keep fuel flowing reliably in suboptimal weather. This reduces the risk of late deliveries and unplanned maintenance, helping fleets stay on schedule and lowering operational costs.

• Problem: Many commercial and industrial businesses in Portland rely on backup generators to kick in during outages, but generators need reliable fuel flow to work properly in cold temperatures.
• Solution: Adding cold flow improvers to generator fuel storage ensures that fuel remains liquid and usable during winter, helping businesses maintain critical operations in power outages.

• Problem: Heavy equipment used on construction sites, especially in winter months, can suffer from fuel blockages, leading to breakdowns and costly repairs.
• Solution: Cold flow improvers prevent fuel line blockages and improve equipment reliability, reducing maintenance expenses and keeping projects on track, even during Portland’s colder periods.

By adding cold flow improvers, businesses across Portland can minimize disruptions due to cold weather, maintain reliable equipment performance, and reduce winter-related repair costs. This small addition to fuel management can make a significant difference in operational efficiency and reliability during the cold months.

Monitoring Fuel Usage

Using cold flow improvers offers several essential benefits for diesel engines in cold weather:

Star Oilco’s Winterized Diesel Offering

If you’re purchasing fuel in Portland or throughout Oregon, consider sourcing from a fuel supplier that provides winterized diesel, like Star Oilco. Star Oilco’s winterized diesel includes these crucial additives, ensuring you have the right protection against gelling. This can save you time and help maintain optimal performance during the cold months​ in the Pacific Northwest.

Star Oilco is a trusted fuel supplier based in Portland, Oregon, dedicated to delivering high-quality fuels and related services to both commercial and residential customers. With decades of industry experience, the company offers a wide range of solutions, including heating oil delivery, off-road diesel, cardlock fueling systems, and emergency backup fuel options. Committed to sustainability, Star Oilco also provides biodiesel and renewable diesel to reduce environmental impact while supporting the energy needs of the Portland community. From optimizing fleet fuel efficiency to ensuring reliable heating in colder months, Star Oilco prioritizes customer satisfaction with tailored, dependable fuel solutions for businesses and homeowners alike.

Ensuring the Right Dosage

The effectiveness of cold flow improvers depends heavily on using the correct dosage. Over- or under-dosing can lead to suboptimal performance or damage to the fuel system. Consulting with a fuel specialist is recommended to determine the appropriate amount of cold flow improver needed for specific applications, taking into account the fuel properties and temperature forecasts.

Cold flow improvers are essential for diesel engines during winter, especially in Portland and Oregon, ensuring optimal performance in cold climates. They prevent fuel gelling and wax crystallization, maintaining fluidity and engine efficiency. Their role is vital in providing operational reliability and cost-effectiveness for those reliant on diesel fuel during colder months. Embracing these improvers allows you to face winter’s challenges confidently, safeguarding engine performance and longevity.

For more guidance on keeping your diesel running smoothly this winter, or to explore Star Oilco’s winterized diesel options, don’t hesitate to reach out or visit our website today!

How Fleet Managers Can Lower Emissions Using Renewable Fuels

Biodiesel

Biodiesel is a type of fuel made from natural oils like vegetable oils or animal fats. These oils go through a process that turns them into fuel that can be used in diesel engines. The great thing about biodiesel is that it can be mixed with regular diesel fuel, so there’s no need to make major changes to diesel engines. This helps reduce harmful emissions that contribute to air pollution. For example, trucks or buses that run on diesel can use biodiesel blends to be a bit more environmentally friendly.

Renewable Diesel

Renewable diesel is similar to biodiesel, but it’s made using a different process. The result is a fuel that’s chemically the same as regular diesel, which means it works in any engine that runs on diesel. What makes renewable diesel better is that it has a much smaller carbon footprint, which means it produces less pollution. Because of this, it’s considered a “greener” option for companies that rely on diesel engines.

Ethanol

Ethanol is a renewable fuel made from plants like corn, sugarcane, or other crops. It’s often blended with gasoline and used in regular cars. When ethanol is mixed with gasoline, it helps reduce the harmful gases that come from burning fuel. For example, you might see a fuel at the gas station labeled E10 or E15, which means it’s 10% or 15% ethanol mixed with gasoline. Ethanol is a common way to make car fuel a little more eco-friendly without needing to change anything about the cars themselves.

Renewable Natural Gas (RNG)

Renewable Natural Gas, or RNG, is made from organic waste, such as food scraps, animal manure, or the gases that come from landfills. This waste naturally releases methane, which is a powerful greenhouse gas. RNG captures this methane and turns it into a cleaner version of natural gas. This means that RNG can be used to power things like homes, vehicles, or industries that rely on natural gas, but with less environmental harm. It’s a smart way to take waste that would otherwise pollute the air and turn it into useful energy.

But it’s not just about GHGs. Renewable fuels also produce less harmful pollution, like soot and sulfur dioxide, which are common with traditional diesel fuels. These pollutants can lower air quality and cause health problems, especially for people with asthma or other respiratory issues. By using renewable fuels, we can improve the air we breathe and reduce health risks linked to diesel exhaust. In the long run, this could mean fewer cases of lung disease and other health issues caused by pollution.

How Fleet Managers Can Use Renewable Fuels

Check Current Fuel Use and Emissions

The first step is to understand how much fuel your fleet uses and how many emissions it produces. An emissions audit can help you see which vehicles or equipment create the most emissions so you can target them for renewable fuel use.

Consider Renewable Diesel and Biodiesel

Renewable diesel and biodiesel are great options for fleet managers. Both types of fuel work with existing diesel engines, so you won’t need to spend money on new vehicles. Start by slowly adding renewable diesel or biodiesel blends to your fueling plan and watch the results.

Work With Renewable Fuel Suppliers

Teaming up with a reliable supplier like Star Oilco is key to getting a steady supply of quality renewable fuels. Star Oilco offers options like biodiesel and renewable diesel that fit various industries. Working with experts helps you find the best fuels for your fleet.

Include Renewable Fuels in Your Sustainability Goals

Set clear goals for reducing emissions using renewable fuels as part of your overall sustainability plan. Fleet managers can track their progress and share these results in corporate sustainability reports. Customers and stakeholders care more about companies with strong environmental practices.

Take Advantage of Incentives

Many states and local governments provide incentives and rebates for using renewable fuels. Fleet managers should look into these programs to help lower the costs of switching to renewable fuels. These programs not only make it cheaper but also help speed up the shift to cleaner transportation.

Why Fleet Managers Should Act Now

The transportation industry is one of the biggest contributors to global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, and that’s why fleet managers have an important role in building a more sustainable future. By switching their fleets to renewable fuels, they can significantly reduce their carbon footprint, comply with strict environmental laws, and improve their company’s image as an eco-friendly business.

As renewable fuel technology continues to improve, it’s becoming easier and more beneficial to make the switch. Using renewable fuels not only helps lower emissions, but it also gives businesses a competitive advantage. More and more customers and clients prefer to support companies that are committed to protecting the environment, and using renewable fuels is a strong way to show that commitment.

Visit Star Oilco to check out our renewable fuel solutions!

Biofuels Industry Surpasses Expectations with a Massive Production Rise

Based on the data, biomass-based diesel production has increased massively in the United States, including biodiesel, renewable diesel, sustainable aviation fuel, and heating oil. Biomass-based diesel was expected to produce 4 billion gallons in 2023. Biofuel production and use increased by one billion gallons from last year to this year, which is a big jump. As a result of this achievement, a breakthrough has been achieved. The industry has surpassed what the EPA once thought was impossible with the development of advanced biofuels derived from sustainable sources.

So the real question is, what if we don’t choose biodiesel or renewable diesel over petroleum diesel for our diesel engines?

Clean Fuel Industry Beats Regulations in Decarbonization Push

While the Clean Fuels Alliance urged the EPA to set even more ambitious goals, like increasing biomass-based diesel production by 500 million gallons a year over the next three years, the EPA has taken a more conservative approach. Regulations aren’t keeping up with the industry, but it’s not waiting for them. Clean fuels are becoming more accessible and heavy-duty transportation fuels used by aviation and maritime are getting decarbonized. The industry has shown its ability to grow quickly and sustainably thanks to this collaborative effort.

There are different grades of diesel fuel or diesel quality just like gasoline, and they can have a big impact on your vehicle’s performance, efficiency, and longevity. Quality diesel offers substantial benefits for your hard-working trucks, even when price is a major factor.

Clean Diesel: A Boost for Your Engine and the Environment

High-quality fuel goes beyond just powering your engine, unlike standard diesel. Like TOP TIER gasoline, premium diesel has enhanced cleaning additives. As a result, you’ll see a range of benefits that directly impact your vehicle’s performance, efficiency, and even your wallet. Let’s take a look at clean diesel’s advantages.

Understanding Diesel Quality

Two key factors determine diesel quality: the cetane number and the sulfur content. The cetane number tells you how easily fuel ignites, like a spark plug’s rating. Higher cetane numbers mean smoother starts, less knocking, and better performance – essential for modern diesel engines that typically need 40 or higher cetane ratings. Sulfur, however, can damage emissions systems and engine components if too much is used as a lubricant. These days, sulfur content is capped at ultra-low levels (Ultra-Low Sulfur Diesel or ULSD), ensuring cleaner engines.

Beyond the Pump: The Long-Term Value of High-Quality Diesel

While price at the pump is important, don’t let it overshadow high-quality diesel’s long-term value. Clean fuel isn’t just about saving money; it’s about keeping your car healthy. Clean diesel unlocks a bunch of benefits: a smoother ride and more power, better fuel economy that lets you go farther on each tank, fewer emissions so you don’t have to worry about air pollution, and a longer engine life, so you don’t have to spend money on repairs. Do you want to feel the difference? The next step is to find a good diesel provider. Thanks to enhanced cleaning additives, many stations prioritize clean diesel. Discover how clean diesel can improve your vehicle’s performance, efficiency, and longevity by researching stations near you.

Imagine a scenario where cleaner diesel offered similar performance and reliability to regular diesel. What other factors might still prevent you from making the switch?

Here are some fuel-saving tips that a fuel delivery company can offer to their construction customers to help them save money on fuel.  

Why Construction Job Sites Need A Fueling Service 

It can be frustrating to waste time and lose productivity on your Portland construction site due to refueling. Eliminate those headaches with an on-site fuel delivery service. This can save your crew valuable time spent waiting in gas station lines or running errands. This leads to increased efficiency and productivity.  

Could you imagine how much more productivity your team will have on the job site by having less trips to refueling their equipment at nearby gas stations?

Reduced Costs

In today’s competitive construction environment, keeping costs down is crucial. An on-site fuel delivery service can be a game-changer for your Portland-based projects. Eliminate wasted time and money traveling to gas stations. Fuel can be delivered directly to your job site, minimizing downtime and keeping your team focused on productivity. As a result, bulk fuel pricing through our service often translates to significant cost savings compared to pump prices at retail stations. Besides saving on fuel, you’ll also save on wear and tear on your vehicles and labor costs. 

Improved Safety

In the fast-paced world of construction, safety is paramount. On-site fuel delivery services solve this problem by eliminating gas station travel. This reduces the risk of road hazards, spills during transport, and fuel transfer dangers on-site. Our trained professionals handle everything, ensuring safe and efficient refueling that keeps your workers focused on what they do best – building your project. 

Convenience and Streamlined Operations 

Your Portland construction site will be more efficient and you’ll spend less time at the gas station. An on-site fuel delivery service eliminates wasted time and keeps your crew focused on what matters most – building. Forget about wasting valuable worker hours on refueling trips. Fuel delivery minimizes downtime and maximizes productivity.  

• Eliminate wasted trips to the gas station and keep your workers focused on construction. 
• On-site fuel delivery ensures minimal disruption to your schedule, maximizing project efficiency. 
• Forget refueling – fuel delivery frees up valuable worker hours for what truly matters – building. 

Business owners typically consider these factors when deciding between a fuel card and a credit card for their fleet. 

Control Over Spending 

Fuel cards offer additional control as they restrict purchases to fuel and specific stations. Credit cards allow for multiple purchases, making expense tracking more challenging. This level of detail makes it possible for better budgeting and financial planning. Cardlock programs allow spending limits on individual cards. This provides an extra layer of control over fuel expenses, preventing employees from exceeding the designated budget. 

Imagine having full control over card spending with automatic limits so you can continue to focus on your business operations without managing your fuel expenses.

Fuel discounts 

Fuel cards often come with discounts at participating stations, reducing fuel costs. Credit cards may offer reward points, but these could have less value than fuel discounts. With a fuel card, you get a discount right away, which can be several cents or even more per gallon. That can add up quickly depending on how much you drive. With a credit card, reward points may have a waiting period or expire after a certain amount of time. Additionally, fuel cards are typically easier to use than credit cards, as they are accepted at more gas stations. 

Fuel cards: 

• Offer immediate discounts at participating fuel stations. 
• Discounts can be significant (several cents or more per gallon), leading to substantial savings with high fleet fuel consumption. 
• Wide network of participating stations ensures easy access to discounts. 

Credit cards: 

• Reward points may offer less value than fuel card discounts. Earning points often translates to minimal gas discounts. 
• Points typically come with restrictions like redemption minimums, blackout dates, and limitations on usable items. 
• Using points often requires extra effort compared to automatic fuel card discounts. 

Data and tracking 

Fuel cards provide detailed data on fuel purchases, driver behavior, and fuel efficiency. Credit cards offer less data, making it more difficult to identify trends and optimize fleet operations. With a fuel card, companies can track individual driver behavior, such as what fuel stations they use, how much they purchase, and how often they make stops. They can also compare this data with other fleets to identify trends and areas for improvement. With a credit card, companies must rely on self-reported data, which can be unreliable and make it difficult to make informed decisions about fleet operations. 

Fuel cards: 

• Track fuel purchases (date, time, location, amount, gallons). 
• Reveal driver behavior patterns (frequent stops, refueling times, locations). 
• Enable monitoring of fuel efficiency (by tracking fuel use vs. mileage). 

Credit cards: 

• Limited data (total amount spent, merchant name). 
• Hindering identification of fuel usage trends. 
• Make it difficult to optimize fleet operations (due to lack of driver and efficiency data). 

How could a fuel card help you better manage your fuel tracking and expenses automatically to save time and money for your business operations and your bottom line?

Security 

Fuel cards typically have PIN verification and spending limits, minimizing fraud risk. Credit cards can be misused for unauthorized purchases. Additionally, fuel cards are more secure than credit cards because they are not linked to a bank account, limiting the amount of money that can be withdrawn. On top of that, fuel cards are easier to track and monitor than credit cards, making it easier to identify any suspicious activity.  

Here are some fuel-saving tips that a fuel delivery company can offer to their construction customers to help them save money on fuel.  

Optimize Routes and Schedules 

Plan deliveries to minimize travel distances and combine multiple stops whenever possible. This will reduce fuel and time costs and emissions from vehicles. Additionally, it will increase efficiency by reducing wait times and allowing for more deliveries to be made.

Reduced Costs & Environmental Impact: 

• Minimize travel distances and combine deliveries to save on fuel and related expenses. 
• This strategy also reduces emissions from our delivery vehicles, contributing to a greener future. 
• Enhance your efficiency. By combining stops, we streamline delivery routes, reducing wait times and allowing for more deliveries in a shorter amount of time. 

Promote Proper Equipment Maintenance 

Every minute counts on a construction site, but even short breaks can lead to unnecessary engine idling. Idling not only wastes fuel and increases costs, but also contributes to air pollution. With Portland’s new fossil-based diesel fuel restrictions within city limits, with the larger effort to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, this is a great time to consider how your business operations can reduce its fuel consumption and overall work to achieve net-zero carbon emissions. To promote a more environmentally friendly work environment and keep fuel costs down, employees should work together to discourage idling. A simple yet powerful solution is to remind workers to completely shut down engines during breaks, no matter how short. This small step can significantly reduce our overall fuel consumption and create a cleaner, healthier site for everyone. 

Idle Reduction: 

• Even short breaks can lead to unnecessary engine idling, wasting fuel and increasing costs. 
• Idling also contributes to air pollution, impacting the environment and worker health. 

Simple Solution, Big Impact: 

• To promote a cleaner, more cost-effective worksite, all employees should work together to discourage idling. 
• Remind workers to completely shut down engines during breaks, no matter how short. 
• This small step can significantly reduce fuel consumption and create a healthier environment for everyone. 

Invest in Fuel-Efficient Equipment 

Consider upgrading to newer equipment models known for better fuel economy. By investing in fuel-efficient equipment, businesses can reduce their fuel costs and reduce their carbon footprint, as newer machines tend to be more fuel-efficient. Plus, newer models tend to have fewer parts and are more reliable, so businesses can expect to spend less on maintenance and repairs. 

Upgrading to fuel-efficient equipment: 

• Reduces fuel costs for construction projects. 
• Lowers a company’s carbon footprint by minimizing emissions. 

Newer equipment: 

• Has fewer parts, simplifying maintenance needs. 
• They also tend to be more reliable, leading to less downtime and repair expenses. 

Train Operators on Fuel-Saving Techniques

Operators should be trained on fuel-efficient driving habits, like avoiding excessive acceleration and maintaining steady speeds. Regular maintenance is crucial for fuel-efficient equipment as it ensures optimal performance and fuel efficiency. Maintenance services include regular engine tune-ups, oil changes, and air filter replacements, all of which contribute to better fuel economy. Additionally, regular maintenance helps to detect and fix any potential issues that may impact fuel efficiency, such as clogged or dirty fuel systems or faulty sensors, ultimately prolonging the life of the equipment and maximizing its fuel savings potential. 

Fuel-Efficient Operation: 

• Avoid rapid acceleration and maintain steady speeds for optimal fuel economy. 

Regular Maintenance for Efficiency: 

• Schedule routine engine tune-ups, oil changes, and air filter replacements. 

Identify & Fix Issues Early:  

• Regularly check for clogged fuel systems, faulty sensors, and other potential issues. 
• Early detection saves fuel and extends the equipment’s lifespan. 

Save Money with a Cardlock Fuel Card

Take control of your fueling operations and put money back in your pocket with a convenient cardlock fuel card program. Cardlock fuel cards are an easy way to track and manage fuel purchases. You save money and time by eliminating manual recordkeeping and billing. Plus, you can monitor fuel usage and get real-time reports. 

1. Reduced Fuel Costs:
   Cardlock accounts often provide businesses with access to discounted fuel prices, which can lead to significant savings over time. Additionally, cardlock accounts can help businesses track fuel usage and identify areas where they can reduce fuel consumption.
   
2.  Improved Fuel Management:
   Cardlock accounts provide businesses with detailed fuel usage data, which can be used to track individual driver behavior, identify unauthorized fuel usage, and optimize fuel routing. This data can also be used to negotiate better fuel rates with suppliers.
3. Reduced Fraud Risk:
   Cardlock accounts offer multiple security features, such as PIN numbers, purchase limits, and real-time transaction monitoring, which can help prevent unauthorized fuel usage and fraud.
4. Convenience and Efficiency:
   Cardlock accounts allow businesses to refuel their vehicles quickly and efficiently, without the need for cash or credit card transactions. This can help reduce downtime and improve productivity.
5. Enhanced Tax Compliance:
   Cardlock accounts provide businesses with detailed fuel usage records, which can be helpful for tax reporting and compliance purposes. 

Why businesses choose cardlock accounts for their operations. 

Fuel Cost Savings

• Discounted fuel prices: Cardlock account holders often receive discounted fuel prices from participating fuel stations. These discounts can be based on factors such as fuel volume, account history, and payment terms.
   
• Fuel usage tracking: Cardlock accounts provide detailed fuel usage data, which can help businesses identify areas where they can reduce fuel consumption. This data can be used to develop fuel-efficient driving practices and optimize fuel routing. 

Improved Fuel Management 

• Individual driver tracking: Cardlock accounts allow businesses to track fuel usage by individual driver, which can help identify drivers who are using excessive amounts of fuel. This data can be used to provide targeted driver training and coaching.
• Unauthorized fuel usage prevention: Cardlock accounts offer multiple security features, such as PIN numbers, purchase limits, and real-time transaction monitoring, which can help prevent unauthorized fuel usage.
• Fuel routing optimization: Cardlock accounts can be used to identify the most cost-effective fuel stations for each vehicle, based on factors such as fuel price, location, and fuel quality. 

Reduced Fraud Risk 

• PIN numbers: Cardlock accounts require drivers to enter a PIN number before fueling, which helps prevent unauthorized access to cards.
• Purchase limits: Cardlock accounts can be set up with purchase limits, which can help prevent drivers from making excessive purchases.
• Real-time transaction monitoring: Cardlock accounts provide real-time transaction monitoring, which allows businesses to identify suspicious activity immediately. 

Convenience and Efficiency 

• 24/7 access: Cardlock stations are typically open 24/7, which allows businesses to refuel their vehicles at any time of day or night.
• Automated payment: Cardlock accounts allow businesses to pay for fuel automatically, which eliminates the need for cash or credit card transactions.
• Reduced downtime: Cardlock accounts can help reduce downtime by allowing businesses to refuel their vehicles quickly and efficiently. 

Enhanced Tax Compliance 

• Detailed fuel usage records: Cardlock accounts provide detailed fuel usage records, which can be helpful for tax reporting and compliance purposes.
• Automated tax reporting: Some cardlock account providers offer automated tax reporting services, which can help businesses save time and money. 

Contact Star Oilco to discuss opening a cardlock account to benefit your business operations and impact your bottom line in savings, security and efficiency. Already have an account? You can shop your fuel bill by allowing us to do a cost comparison to identify cost savings by switching today.