What is ultra-low sulphur diesel (ULSD)?

A type of diesel fuel, ultra-low sulphur diesel or ULSD refers to a fuel that contains a maximum sulphur content of 10 parts per million (ppm), hence given its lower sulphur context name in comparison to other diesel fuels. A common choice for vehicles in the UK, It’s dedicated for use in medium-speed and high-speed diesel engines and exceeds British and European Specification BS EN 590 requirements. Manufactured from selected crude oils, it is a distillate fuel that is blended carefully to deliver high-performance features such as smoke control, quick starting and reduced particulate, whilst providing protection from pump and injector wear and offering very low-temperature functionality. Therefore helps to reduce air pollution and boost environmental benefits in line with the Clean Air Act and EPA regulations.

What are the benefits of using ULSD?

There are many advantages to purchasing ULSD with the first being that it is widely accessible from fuel stations across the country as it is a standard diesel fuel used for the majority of vehicles we see on the road day to day. Sold alongside standard diesel and premium diesel, it can be a little more expensive than standard fuel due to the refining process in lowering sulphur oxides, but this outweighs the environmental benefits and therefore air quality and health impacts thanks to its cleaner exhaust emission for domestic and business users. It can also assist in reducing pollutants even further with its use of advanced emissions control technologies such as selective catalytic reduction (SCR systems) and diesel particular filters (DPF).

Our ULSD Products and Services

At Kinch Fuels our delivery services enable us to carry out ULSD supply with our easy-to-use online form which allows you to select the quantity you’d like to purchase, the preferred delivery vehicle and your location, and then you can leave the rest to us. As a trusted supplier offering excellent prices and high product quality, we can even offer multiple delivery services and emergency delivery when you need fuel at a moment’s notice. Our customer support is on hand to provide any advice and guidance you need.

ULSD FAQs

What is the ULSD Refining Process?

The process of refining ultra-low sulphur diesel involves several steps to ensure that it meets the required levels to reduce the sulphur content and therefore sulphur oxide emissions. Starting with distillation as part of the refining process, crude oil is heated in a distillation tower which enables it to serrate into a number of components based on its boiling points. Next, hydrodesulfurization removes sulphur and other impurities as the sulphur compounds react with hydrogen to form hydrogen sulphide which is removed from the fuel. Desulfurization is a vital step as it brings down the sulphur levels, followed by hydrogenation as part of the hydroprocessing steps to further eliminate compounds. Finally, further treatments such as filtration and solvent extraction ensure the fuel quality is of a high level before it’s blended to improve stability and lubricity.

What’s the best way to handle and store ULSD?

The handling and storage of ULSD are essential to maintaining the quality of the fuel and enforcing contamination prevention. To ensure that the fuel integrity is of a good level we always use clean containers and equipment which is specially designed for storing the fuel whilst also preventing water contamination. We also control temperature and ventilation as well as minimise exposure to air and light to avoid any unwanted elements from getting into the fuel. Complying with the latest regulations we monitor the fuel quality and rotate fuel stocks so that our customers are getting the freshest batch possible.

What are the current challenges in ULSD usage?

Whilst ULSD is a standard diesel fuel in the UK there are some challenges in using it such as compatibility issues, especially in older vehicles, cold weather performance as it has a lower cloud point and wax content affecting its lubricity, and can also require more fuel system maintenance on items such as seals, gaskets and hoses to improve engine wear. The fuel treatment itself, however, means that it meets global diesel standards with its environmental benefits.

Contact Information and Support

When you require high-quality fuel from a reputable, local supplier Kinch Fuels is known for our outstanding customer support where we can take your service inquiries and assist with your delivery. Contact us for more details and to place an order on 01666 862 100.