Bränslelubricity

Bränslelubricity refers to the ability of a fuel to lubricate moving parts within an engine's fuel system. This is particularly important for diesel engines, where high-pressure fuel injection pumps and injectors rely on the fuel itself to reduce wear and friction. Traditional diesel fuel contains natural lubricating components that are largely removed during the refining process to meet modern emission standards.

The reduction in fuel lubricity can lead to increased wear on critical fuel system components, potentially causing premature failure and reduced engine performance. This is especially a concern with ultra-low sulfur diesel (ULSD) fuels, as the sulfur compounds that contributed to lubricity were removed to reduce sulfur emissions. To address this, fuel additives are often blended into diesel fuel to restore or enhance its lubricating properties. These additives are designed to create a protective film between metal surfaces, preventing direct contact and minimizing wear.

Testing for fuel lubricity is typically performed using specialized equipment that measures the wear scar diameter on a metal surface after exposure to the fuel under controlled conditions. Maintaining adequate fuel lubricity is essential for the longevity and reliability of diesel engines and their fuel injection systems.