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Fuel is the single largest operating expense for a diesel truck fleet. This paper presents data on the many factors which affect consumption, and on the ways in which fuels and additives can contribute to minimizing it. Fuel density is the key fuel parameter affecting consumption, since higher density fuels deliver more energy per litre than those of lower density. Diesel cold flow improver additives can play an important role in the economic production of diesel fuel. In addition, they allow the production of higher density fuels while maintaining good low temperature performance. Dynamometer test data are presented to show the effects of ambient temperature, vehicle speed and fuel density on consumption. The performance of flow improver additives in improving low temperature operability while maximizing density is demonstrated.

Wax formed in cold diesel fuels can settle, causing fuel storage and distribution problems and unexpected vehicle failures. The extent of these wax settling problems depends upon fuel, storage conditions, and the design of vehicle fuel systems. New Wax Anti-settling Flow improvers, WAFI, reduce crystal sizes and keep wax dispersed in the fuel. Improved performance of cold fuels treated with WAFI has been demonstrated in storage tests, a diesel fuel rig, and in diesel trucks on a cold climate chassis dynamometer. Most improvements are found in diesel vehicles with fuel systems that are sensitive to wax related failures. Benefits from the application of WAFI are: reliable cold fuel performance for consumers, improved refinery economics and the ability to increase diesel fuel production to meet growing demand.