Fuel Polishing

[Solittle]

I read a real interesting thread on fuel polishing for diesel fuel for engines on trawlers (http://www.passagemaker.com/discus/messages/3/971.html?1167582241). Many owners even have on-board systems that polish the fuel while underway.

Is this process used for gas (both regular gasoline and pre-mix)? Would this extend the "shelf life" of gasoline by removing the crud & water?

 

[Solittle]

Re: Fuel Polishing

^^^

 

[bjcsc]

Re: Fuel Polishing

Gasoline degradation is largely due to the loss of aromatic compounds through the vents. Diesel fuel, as you know, does not evaporate like gasoline. Specific algaes and other microbials can grow surprisingly well in diesel tanks as well, esp. when they have a decent supply of water either from condensation or lousy supply tanks. I run Biocide in my diesels, and pay attention to the fuel/water sep.. That is normally sufficient. Also, an average recreational diesel trawler may use a few tanks of fuel a season whereas as an average recreational gasoline boat may use a few tanks per month.

 

[Mischief Managed]

Re: Fuel Polishing

There's nothing to be gained by polishing gasoline. It does not generate asphaltine, can absorb quite a bit of water without damaging the engine, and gas engines do not require extremely fine filtering. Fuel polishing equipment is absurdly expensive too.