Full Technical Specifications of EN590 ULSD 10 ppm Diesel
Explore the detailed chemical, physical, and performance specifications of EN590 Ultra-Low Sulfur Diesel (ULSD) 10 ppm, the European standard for modern diesel engines.
Introduction — What is EN590 ULSD 10 ppm?
EN590 is the European standard defining diesel fuel for road vehicles. Ultra-Low Sulfur Diesel (ULSD) compliant with EN590 must have a sulfur content of ≤10 parts per million (ppm). This standard ensures compatibility with modern emission control systems such as Diesel Particulate Filters (DPF) and Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR), reducing sulfur oxide (SOx) and particulate matter emissions while maintaining engine performance.
1. Sulfur Content
The maximum sulfur content for EN590 ULSD is:
- Maximum: 10 ppm (0.001% by weight)
- Measured using ASTM D5453 or ISO 20846/20884 sulfur analysis methods
Low sulfur content reduces SOx emissions, protects exhaust after-treatment systems, and enables compliance with Euro 5/6 emissions standards.
2. Cetane Number
Cetane number (CN) measures ignition quality of diesel:
- Minimum CN: 51 (varies slightly by national standard)
- Higher cetane numbers ensure smoother combustion, reduced engine noise, and lower NOx emissions
3. Density
Diesel density affects combustion and energy content:
- Range: 820–845 kg/m³ at 15 °C
- Measured according to ASTM D4052 or ISO 3675/12185
4. Distillation Characteristics
EN590 specifies distillation limits to ensure consistent volatility and combustion:
- Initial boiling point: 180–250 °C (approx.)
- 50% recovered: 250–350 °C
- 95% recovered: ≤360–370 °C
- Final boiling point: ≤360–370 °C
These parameters ensure efficient ignition, proper cold-start behavior, and minimal engine deposits.
5. Flash Point
Flash point is critical for safety in storage and transport:
- Minimum: 55 °C (closed cup method)
- Prevents accidental ignition during handling and refueling
6. Cold Flow Properties
Diesel must perform in cold climates:
- Cloud Point: Maximum -6 °C (Europe standard; varies by season and region)
- Cold Filter Plugging Point (CFPP): -10 °C to -20 °C depending on region
- Ensures fuel remains fluid and filterable at low temperatures
7. Lubricity
Lubricity protects fuel pumps and injectors:
- Wear scar diameter: ≤460 µm (measured by HFRR method ASTM D6079)
- ULSD naturally has lower lubricity; additives may be required to meet this specification
8. Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs)
PAHs contribute to particulate emissions:
- Maximum content: 11% by mass (varies slightly by region)
- Lower PAHs reduce particulate matter (PM) formation
9. Oxidation Stability
Oxidation stability prevents gum formation and fuel degradation:
- Minimum induction period: 20 hours (EN 16091 or ASTM D2274)
- Ensures long-term storage stability
10. Aromatic Content
Limits on aromatics improve combustion and reduce emissions:
- Maximum aromatic content: 35% by volume
- Supports lower particulate and NOx emissions
11. Total Contamination and Water
- Maximum total contamination: 24 mg/kg (EN 12662)
- Maximum water content: 200 mg/kg
- Minimizes injector blockage and microbial growth
12. Cetane Index
Provides a calculated measure of diesel ignition quality:
- Minimum cetane index: 46
- Calculated from density and distillation characteristics
13. Additional Requirements
- Color: Typically clear or slightly yellow; free of sediment and haze
- Acid number: ≤0.3 mg KOH/g
- Conductivity: ≥150 pS/m to prevent static discharge
- Compatibility: Must not adversely affect seals, gaskets, or engine components
14. Summary Table of EN590 ULSD 10 ppm Specifications
| Property | Specification |
|---|---|
| Sulfur Content | ≤10 ppm |
| Cetane Number | ≥51 |
| Density (15 °C) | 820–845 kg/m³ |
| Flash Point | ≥55 °C |
| Cloud Point | Varies by region (typically -6 °C max) |
| Cold Filter Plugging Point | -10 to -20 °C |
| Lubricity (HFRR) | ≤460 µm |
| Aromatic Content | ≤35% vol. |
| PAHs | ≤11% mass |
| Oxidation Stability | ≥20 h |
| Total Contamination | ≤24 mg/kg |
| Water Content | ≤200 mg/kg |
| Cetane Index | ≥46 |
| Acid Number | ≤0.3 mg KOH/g |
Conclusion — Compliance and Performance
EN590 ULSD 10 ppm diesel specifications ensure that the fuel is compatible with modern diesel engines and emission control systems, while minimizing environmental impact. Adhering to these standards guarantees consistent engine performance, reduced emissions, and long-term reliability for transport and industrial applications.
📩 Contact EN590 Diesel Technical Experts
For technical support, certification, and quality verification of ULSD 10 ppm:
- Detailed specification guidance
- Quality control and testing
- Compliance and certification advice
📩 info@nnrvtradepartners.com
Ensure full compliance and optimal performance with certified EN590 ULSD 10 ppm diesel.
