Approved Additives for EN590 ULSD 10 ppm Diesel
Discover the types of additives approved for EN590 Ultra-Low Sulfur Diesel (ULSD) 10 ppm, their purposes, and best practices for use to ensure optimal engine performance and compliance.
Introduction — Why Additives Are Needed
EN590 ULSD 10 ppm diesel is formulated to meet strict sulfur, cetane, and emission standards. However, ultra-low sulfur content reduces natural lubricity and can increase susceptibility to microbial growth, oxidation, and cold flow issues. Additives are used to enhance fuel performance, protect engines, and extend storage life without compromising compliance.
1. Lubricity Additives
ULSD has lower natural lubricity than high-sulfur diesel, which can affect high-pressure fuel pumps and injectors.
- Purpose: Protects fuel system components from wear
- Typical Chemicals: Fatty acid methyl esters (FAME), esters, or proprietary lubricity improvers
- Standards Compliance: Must ensure HFRR wear scar ≤460 µm (ASTM D6079)
2. Cold Flow Improvers
ULSD can gel or form wax crystals in cold temperatures, affecting pumpability.
- Purpose: Improve cloud point, pour point, and cold filter plugging point (CFPP)
- Typical Additives: Polymethacrylates, ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymers
- Usage: Seasonal application or in colder climates
3. Oxidation Inhibitors / Stabilizers
Diesel can oxidize over time, producing gums, varnish, and sludge.
- Purpose: Extend storage life and maintain stability
- Typical Additives: Phenolic antioxidants, aminic stabilizers
- Benefit: Prevents fuel degradation and deposit formation in injectors and tanks
4. Corrosion Inhibitors
Water in storage or trace acids can corrode metal surfaces in fuel systems.
- Purpose: Protect tanks, pumps, and injectors from corrosion
- Typical Additives: Nitrogen-based or amine-based corrosion inhibitors
- Application: Especially important for long-term storage or older equipment
5. Anti-Microbial Additives / Biocides
Microbial growth occurs at the water-fuel interface, causing sludge, filter blockages, and tank corrosion.
- Purpose: Prevent bacterial and fungal growth in storage tanks
- Common Chemicals: Isothiazolinones, triazoles, or other approved biocides
- Guidance: Periodic dosing based on water presence and tank inspection
6. Cetane Improvers
Cetane number influences ignition quality and combustion efficiency.
- Purpose: Increase cetane number for smoother combustion, reduced noise, and lower NOx
- Typical Chemicals: Alkyl nitrates (e.g., 2-ethylhexyl nitrate)
- Effect: Faster ignition and more complete combustion in modern diesel engines
7. Anti-Foaming / De-Ion Additives
- Purpose: Reduce foam during filling, transfer, and tank storage
- Effect: Prevents air entrainment in pumps and ensures accurate metering
8. Regulatory Compliance for Additives
Additives used in EN590 ULSD 10 ppm diesel must comply with European fuel quality standards and engine manufacturer recommendations:
- Maintain sulfur ≤10 ppm and meet EN590 chemical limits
- Do not interfere with emission control devices (DPF, SCR)
- Approved by national and EU fuel quality authorities
- Certified by engine OEMs for compatibility
9. Best Practices for Using Additives
- Follow manufacturer dosing instructions precisely
- Monitor fuel after additive treatment to ensure specifications are maintained
- Combine additives carefully — do not exceed chemical compatibility limits
- Use additives when necessary: cold climates, long storage, or observed lubricity issues
10. FAQ — Diesel Additives
- Are additives required for ULSD 10 ppm?
Not always. Lubricity and cold flow additives are often used in older engines or harsh climates, while oxidation inhibitors are recommended for long-term storage. - Can additives harm engines?
If used according to manufacturer guidelines, approved additives are safe and compatible with modern engines. - How are additives certified?
Through EN590 compliance, engine OEM approvals, and EU fuel regulations. - Can multiple additives be used together?
Yes, but compatibility should be verified to avoid chemical interactions. - Do additives affect emissions?
Properly used additives do not negatively affect DPF or SCR performance and can improve combustion efficiency.
Conclusion — Optimizing Diesel Performance with Additives
Using approved additives with EN590 ULSD 10 ppm diesel ensures optimal engine performance, extended storage life, improved cold flow, and protection of fuel systems. Adhering to regulatory requirements and manufacturer guidelines guarantees that diesel remains compliant, efficient, and reliable over time.
📩 Contact Diesel Additive Experts
For guidance on additive selection, dosing, and compatibility with EN590 ULSD 10 ppm:
- Fuel performance optimization
- Storage and stability solutions
- Engine compatibility and emissions compliance support
📩 info@nnrvtradepartners.com
Enhance fuel quality and engine reliability with approved additives for EN590 ULSD 10 ppm diesel.
