The ground-breaking innovation of HVO fuel has paved the way for businesses to reduce carbon emissions and become more environmentally friendly. This type of diesel is cleaner compared to traditional fuels and oils. Plus, HVO is synthesised from oils extracted from plants and animals, which is proven to be more sustainable.
To answer more questions about HVO fuels, read further below.
Will I have to change my boiler for HVO?
HVO is a great substitution for Diesel, as well as Kerosene, and depending on the type of boiler you have, you may not need to make any changes at all to use HVO. The more modern your boiler is, the more likely it is that it will be compatible with HVO fuel with a couple of simple modifications. Those newer boiler models can even use HVO while not requiring any changes to the mechanism.
What is HVO fuel?
Known as Hydroprocessed Esters and Fatty Acids (HEFA) or basically, sustainable diesel, HVO (Hydrotreated Vegetable Oils) are much better for the climate and motors than mineral diesel. HVO price is also cheaper and an ideal alternative for various applications, especially those that will heavily affect the environment.
What does it contain?
HEFA and HVO fuels indicate higher cetane degrees, therefore they are classified as chain paraffinic hydrocarbons. These segments are sulfur, aromatics and oxygen free and have some huge benefits over Fatty Acid Methyl Esters (FAME) which empower them to be utilised in aviation, agriculture, transport, marine and a range of other applications.
What is HVO fuel used for?
HVO suppliers state that this fuel can be used in various industries, like construction, rail systems, and public transports, in place of gasoline and other regular fuels.
It’s commonly used in:
- Portable generators
- Commercial boilers
- Agricultural tractors and machinery
- Boats and vessels operating within inland waterways
- Construction equipment and machinery
- Industrial trucks and tankers
A handful of events and UK festivals, including Glastonbury, have already made the move to HVO fuel to power their portable generators and transportation. Additionally, HVO is produced in several ways as well.
What manufacturer approvals does HVO fuel have?
HVO fuel has OEM approvals from a wide range of manufacturers for a wide range of diesel engines. Vehicles and machinery with an OEM approval indicate that alternate fuels are safe to use without voiding the warranty.
What additional infrastructure is needed for HVO fuel?
HVO fuel can be used as a direct drop-in alternative for regular diesel without needing to amend existing infrastructure. Another thing that makes HVO fuel cost effective is it is a type of paraffinic fuel, which can be blended with the remaining fuels loaded in a tank. This makes switching to HVO fuel simpler and less expensive.
Can fossil free HVO fuel cause engine problems?
Crown HVO fuel can be used in most diesel engines, but you should always check with the engine manufacturer’s recommendations for each use. To reiterate, HVO fuel is approved by several OEMs.
What can HVO be used as an alternative for?
HVO fuel is a direct drop-in diesel alternative. It meets the EN15940 standard, ASTM D975 and conforms to the Fuel Quality Directive 2009/30/EC Annex II and has been approved by a large number of automotive manufacturers. With a large number of OEM approvals, it can be used in a wide range of modern diesel engines, off-road machinery and generators without voiding warranties. Ease of use is a primary concern when considering any new fuel and to make the switch to HVO fuel. HVO suppliers ensure that industries don’t need to do too much modification to their engines, machinery, and other aspects ran by fuels. HVO fuel can be mixed with the existing fuel load in a tank.
What is the production process for HVO?
HVO fuel is produced through a highly controlled hydrotreatment process of renewable materials to form a high-quality paraffinic product that’s almost chemically identical to fossil diesel, but with several added benefits. This type of production process eliminates any impurities and toxic chemicals that may reduce the quality of the fuel. This process also extends its shelf life for up to 10 years. Just make sure to keep in a secure storage area and regularly maintain the tank. The modern hydrotreating process results in a more efficient burn than regular diesel and biodiesel, cleaner combustion, reduced soot in engines and exhaust systems, aromatic, sulphur and metal-free and up to a 90% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions.
Employing the HVO fuel for commercial use yields a lot of benefits and may attract more potential customers in the long run. Knowing that a company resorts to the use of more eco-friendly products and resources is good PR – who would not want to patronise such, right? But aside from its revenue factor, as mentioned above, it can help any business entity in many ways. If you are planning to do the shift, you can always research more and ask fellow business owners about its pros and cons!