The RTFO requires oil refineries and importers of fossil-based road transport fuels and non-road mobile machinery (NRMM) fuels in the UK to add a percentage of fuel from renewable and sustainable sources. Bioethanol is added to petrol and biodiesel (also known as fatty acid methyl ester or FAME) to diesel and gas oil.
You may have seen reports in the press and on social media of incidents where agricultural machinery has suffered due to issues relating to fuel quality. Examples include:
We are here to help and offer advice on what to do to prevent these issues arising and how to treat such issues if they occur.
The Renewable Transport Fuel Obligation (RTFO), introduced in 2008, forms part of the government’s drive to:
In broad terms, the RTFO requires oil refineries and importers of fossil-based road transport fuels and non-road mobile machinery (NRMM) fuels in the UK to add a percentage of fuel from renewable and sustainable sources. Bioethanol is added to petrol and biodiesel (also known as fatty acid methyl ester or FAME) to diesel and gas oil.
Initially, the requirement was to supply up to 3.5% renewable fuel in road fuels. This percentage has increased significantly in the last couple of years, and the scope widened to include NRMM fuel. This year the obligation increased to 9.18% and will rise to 10.637% next year, although the UK fuel specification currently limits the amount of FAME in diesel and gas oil to 7%.
While the increase in the FAME content of diesel has been gradual over the last few years, we believe that the rise in the FAME content of gas oil has been much more dramatic, rising from between 0-2% to 5-7%, this year.
Fatty acid methyl ester (FAME) has solvent properties that have a cleaning effect on fuel tanks. This causes the removal of particles and accumulated dirt from the tank and the pipeline. However, these solvent properties can also contribute to corrosion in the tank components, degrading rubber and plastic surfaces. Small particles (lower than 10 microns) of tank debris are held in suspension within the fuel. They can lead to fuel filter problems, resulting in increased fuel consumption and trouble starting the vehicle or machinery. Unless a tank is new or has been cleaned, it is likely that a sudden increase in FAME can cause this cleaning effect to occur. This effect is unlikely to continue once the contents of the tank have been washed through, although new deliveries can stir up debris settled at the bottom of the tank.
The methyl esters found in biodiesel can absorb considerable amounts of moisture and hold this water solution in the fuel. Moisture in fuel can affect performance and create suitable conditions for microbial growth, leading to fuel tank contamination. This, in turn, can lead to diesel bugs (slime substance), yeasts, and bacteria (algae) appearing within the fuel. This contamination can also lead to fuel filter problems and injector fouling, resulting in reduced fuel flow and unexpected loss of power.
In cold weather, FAME, like fossil fuels, can lead to waxing and separation, resulting in fuel filter problems, even when the temperature increases.
The fuel meets British Standards. Not everybody has been affected. In fact, it is a small number of customers overall who have experienced problems. The initial cleaning effect of FAME is likely the most common cause of the issues. We do not fully understand all the factors that might be involved, but they include:
Some samples sent from customers’ tanks have shown instances of the presence of microbial activity (BUGS). This is a microorganism that can live, feed, and reproduce in a fuel environment where there is water present. These instances have, so far, been relatively few and far between but are more likely to occur over time, especially in older tanks with more dirt and debris and in warmer weather.
As the percentage of FAME in fuels goes up, there is an increased risk of microbial growth and fuel tank contamination. Our advice to customers is that proper maintenance of equipment and fuel storage tanks is now essential, and the use of fuel additives is recommended. Keeping tanks as free as possible of condensation, regularly drained of water, and free from dirt are the minimum requirements.
Once the fuel has been delivered, allow time for it to settle. Avoid storing fuel for excessive periods or storing summer-grade fuel during cold weather. You should also consider replacing storage tanks if they are old or in poor condition. We also recommend using fuel treatment, such as GasOil+ for enhanced protection.
Check tanks regularly for signs of disrepair, damage, corrosion or contamination. It’s also advisable to inspect pipework, seals, pumps and other components for signs of leakage. If you find a leak, replace parts to prevent further damage. You can find out more about replacing fuel tanks here.
Close all filling points, repair any holes and close all hatches/access lids but ensure the tank can breathe. Use water paste to check for water.
Ensure any water is removed from your tank before cleaning the tank and removing all sludge of foreign debris build-up. If you are interested in cleaning your tank using a specialist cleaner, please get in touch. Clean or change filters regularly to avoid fuel filter issues. Different types of filters offer different levels of protection. For advice, please contact us.
If you find bacterial growth or you want to prevent it, please get in contact to discuss how our specially designed additives can be used to enhance and maintain fuel quality.
