SYMPOSIA PAPER Published: 01 January 1967
STP46061S

Weather Patterns and Diesel Fuel Performance

Source

From a review of weather data available in the literature, maps of the United States have been developed to indicate the lowest temperature encountered in various parts of the country over a 50-year period. Similar maps showing the mean of the lowest temperature and the average annual minimum temperature have also been included. These maps were used as a basis for defining temperature quality zones for optimum low-temperature diesel operation. Based on field test data, a relationship has been developed to determine the diesel fuel fluidity temperature requirements for any given ambient temperature. These data have been used as the basis for monitoring the quality of diesel fuel shipments to various areas. Field test data for four areas during the past two years comparing the fluidity values with actual weather data as well as the lowest temperature and mean of lowest temperature have been presented. A comparison of the quality zones with recommended areas for satisfactory diesel engine operation based on the lowest one-day mean temperatures has also been included. Diesel fuels meeting the low-temperature requirements of the four quality zones should be satisfactory according to a recent publication. The importance of monitoring the low-temperature flow characteristics of diesel fuels to conform with accepted weather patterns has been demonstrated in this study. A method for controlling the quality of the diesel fuel in the field has been outlined as one possible approach.

Author Information

Rescorla, A., R.
Cities Service Oil Co., Tulsa, Okla.
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Details
Developed by Committee: D02
Pages: 99–114
DOI: 10.1520/STP46061S
ISBN-EB: 978-0-8031-6758-2
ISBN-13: 978-0-8031-6632-5