Biozola Oil

EN590

EN590 is a European standard that specifies the requirements and test methods for diesel fuel used in automotive vehicles. It is part of the broader EN 590:2013+A1:2017 standard, which outlines the characteristics of diesel fuel to ensure optimal performance, environmental compliance, and compatibility with modern diesel engines, particularly those equipped with advanced emission control systems like Diesel Particulate Filters (DPFs) and Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) systems.

Key Features

  1. Sulfur Content :

    • The sulfur content in EN590 diesel is limited to 10 mg/kg (ppm) or less. This ultra-low sulfur diesel (ULSD) is essential for reducing harmful emissions and ensuring the proper functioning of emission control devices such as catalytic converters and particulate filters.

  2. Cetane Number :

    • The cetane number, which measures the ignition quality of diesel fuel, must be at least 51 . A higher cetane number improves combustion efficiency, reduces engine noise, and enhances cold-start performance.

  3. Density :

    • The density of EN590 diesel is specified to be between 820 kg/m³ and 845 kg/m³ at 15°C. This ensures consistent fuel flow and injection performance.

  4. Cold Weather Performance :

    • EN590 includes specifications for cold weather performance, measured by the Cloud Point and Cold Filter Plugging Point (CFPP) . These parameters ensure that the fuel remains fluid and can be pumped at low temperatures, preventing issues like fuel gelling in winter conditions.
      • Cloud Point : The temperature at which wax crystals begin to form in the fuel.
      • CFPP : The lowest temperature at which the fuel can still pass through a filter.

  5. Lubricity :

    • Diesel fuel must have adequate lubricity to prevent excessive wear on fuel injection components. EN590 specifies a maximum wear scar diameter of 460 microns in the High-Frequency Reciprocating Rig (HFRR) test.

  6. FAME (Biodiesel) Content :

    • EN590 allows for the inclusion of up to 7% Fatty Acid Methyl Esters (FAME) , which are bio-components derived from renewable sources. This helps reduce the carbon footprint of diesel fuel while maintaining compatibility with existing engines.

  7. Viscosity :

    • The kinematic viscosity of EN590 diesel is specified to be between 2.0 mm²/s and 4.5 mm²/s at 40°C. Proper viscosity ensures efficient fuel atomization and combustion.

  8. Flash Point :

    • The minimum flash point for EN590 diesel is 55°C , ensuring safe handling and storage.

  9. Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs) :

    • The content of PAHs is limited to 8% by mass . PAHs are harmful compounds that can contribute to particulate emissions, so limiting them helps reduce environmental impact.
 

Environmental Benefits:

  • Reduced Emissions : The low sulfur content and high cetane number help reduce harmful emissions, including nitrogen oxides (NOx), particulate matter (PM), and carbon monoxide (CO).
  • Compatibility with Emission Control Systems : Modern diesel engines are equipped with advanced emission control technologies like DPFs and SCR systems, which require ultra-low sulfur diesel to function effectively.
 

Regional Variations:

While EN590 is primarily used in Europe, similar standards exist in other regions:

  • ASTM D975 in the United States
  • JIS K2204 in Japan
 

These standards may have slightly different specifications, but they all aim to ensure clean, efficient, and reliable diesel fuel for modern engines.

primary uses

1. Automotive Industry

  • Primary Use : EN590 diesel is the standard fuel for passenger cars , trucks , buses , and light commercial vehicles with diesel engines.
  • Why It’s Used :
    • Low Sulfur Content : The sulfur content in EN590 diesel is limited to 10 mg/kg (ppm) or less, making it compatible with modern emission control systems like DPFs and SCR systems, which reduce harmful emissions.
    • High Cetane Number : EN590 diesel has a minimum cetane number of 51 , ensuring efficient combustion, reduced engine noise, and better cold-start performance.
    • Environmental Compliance : EN590 diesel helps vehicles meet stringent Euro 6 emission standards, which limit nitrogen oxides (NOₓ), particulate matter (PM), and carbon monoxide (CO) emissions.
 

2. Commercial Transport

  • Primary Use : EN590 diesel is widely used in heavy-duty trucks , delivery vehicles , and fleet operations .
  • Why It’s Used :
    • Fuel Efficiency : Diesel engines powered by EN590 offer high thermal efficiency, reducing fuel consumption and operational costs for long-haul transport.
    • Emission Control : The low sulfur content ensures compatibility with advanced emission reduction technologies, helping fleets comply with environmental regulations.
    • Cold Weather Performance : EN590 diesel includes specifications for cold filter plugging point (CFPP) , ensuring reliable performance in cold climates.
 

3. Public Transportation

  • Primary Use : EN590 diesel powers city buses , intercity coaches , and other public transport vehicles.
  • Why It’s Used :
    • Durability : Diesel engines running on EN590 are robust and durable, making them ideal for the demanding schedules of public transportation.
    • Lower Emissions : Public transport operators use EN590 diesel to meet urban air quality standards and reduce pollution in densely populated areas.
    • Cost-Effectiveness : Diesel engines provide better fuel economy compared to gasoline engines, reducing operating costs for large fleets.
 

4. Agricultural Machinery

  • Primary Use : EN590 diesel is used in tractors , harvesters , and other agricultural equipment.
  • Why It’s Used :
    • High Torque : Diesel engines deliver high torque at low speeds, which is essential for heavy-duty tasks like plowing and harvesting.
    • Reliability : EN590 diesel ensures reliable performance in harsh conditions, including remote rural areas.
    • Compatibility : Modern agricultural machinery often includes emission control systems that require ultra-low sulfur diesel (ULSD) like EN590.
 

5. Construction and Heavy Equipment

  • Primary Use : EN590 diesel fuels excavators , bulldozers , cranes , and other construction machinery.
  • Why It’s Used :
    • Power and Efficiency : Diesel engines provide the power and efficiency needed for heavy lifting and earthmoving operations.
    • Emission Standards : Construction companies must comply with environmental regulations, and EN590 diesel helps reduce emissions from on-site equipment.
    • Lubricity : EN590 diesel has good lubricating properties, which protect fuel injection systems in high-pressure diesel engines.
 

6. Marine Applications (Small Vessels)

  • Primary Use : EN590 diesel can be used in small marine vessels , such as fishing boats, pleasure craft, and inland waterway vessels.
  • Why It’s Used :
    • Cleaner Fuel : EN590 diesel is cleaner than traditional marine fuels like heavy fuel oil (HFO), making it suitable for small vessels operating in environmentally sensitive areas.
    • Compatibility : Many small marine engines are designed to run on automotive-grade diesel, making EN590 a viable option.
 

7. Backup Generators

  • Primary Use : EN590 diesel is used in backup generators for homes, businesses, hospitals, and critical infrastructure.
  • Why It’s Used :
    • Reliability : Diesel generators powered by EN590 are known for their durability and ability to provide consistent power during outages.
    • Efficiency : Diesel engines are more fuel-efficient than gasoline engines, making them cost-effective for long-term operation.
    • Low Maintenance : The clean-burning nature of EN590 diesel reduces wear and tear on generator components.
 

8. Rail Transport

  • Primary Use : EN590 diesel is used in diesel locomotives for freight and passenger rail transport.
  • Why It’s Used :
    • High Energy Density : Diesel engines powered by EN590 provide the energy density needed for long-distance rail travel.
    • Emission Reduction : Rail operators use EN590 diesel to comply with environmental regulations and reduce the carbon footprint of rail transport.
    • Cost Savings : Diesel-powered trains are more economical than electric trains in regions without electrified rail networks.
 

9. Military Vehicles

  • Primary Use : EN590 diesel is used in military vehicles , including tanks, armored personnel carriers, and logistics vehicles.
  • Why It’s Used :
    • Performance : Diesel engines provide the torque and durability required for military operations.
    • Standardization : Many NATO countries use fuels similar to EN590 for interoperability between allied forces.
    • Emission Control : Military vehicles increasingly use emission control technologies, which require ultra-low sulfur diesel.
 

10. Specialized Applications

  • Mining Equipment : EN590 diesel powers mining vehicles and machinery, providing the power and reliability needed for underground and surface mining operations.
  • Remote Power Generation : In remote or off-grid locations, EN590 diesel is used in generators to provide electricity for industrial operations, research stations, and communities.