Quality Standards Required for EN590 Diesel Export
Explore the international quality requirements for exporting EN590 ULSD 10 ppm diesel, ensuring compliance, engine safety, and market acceptance.
Introduction — Why Quality Standards Matter
EN590 ULSD 10 ppm diesel is the European benchmark for road and industrial diesel, meeting strict sulfur, cetane, and emission standards. Exporting diesel requires compliance with both the producing country’s specifications and the destination market’s regulations. Adherence to quality standards ensures engine compatibility, environmental compliance, and commercial trust in global markets.
1. EN590 Diesel Key Specifications
Exported EN590 ULSD must meet the following standards:
- Sulfur Content: Maximum 10 ppm
- Cetane Number: ≥51 for optimal ignition
- Density: 820–845 kg/m³ at 15 °C
- Flash Point: Minimum 55 °C for safety
- Viscosity: 2.0–4.5 mm²/s at 40 °C
- Water Content: ≤200 ppm, free water must be absent
- Cloud Point & Cold Filter Plugging Point (CFPP): Market-dependent for cold climate operations
- Acid Number: ≤0.5 mg KOH/g
- Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAH): ≤11% by mass for environmental compliance
2. Additive and Lubricity Requirements
ULSD can have reduced natural lubricity; additives must be approved and documented for export:
- HFRR wear scar ≤460 µm (ASTM D6079)
- Cold flow improvers must comply with CFPP requirements
- Oxidation inhibitors, corrosion inhibitors, and biocides must not alter sulfur or cetane compliance
3. International Standards and Testing Methods
- EN590 / EN ISO 8217: Defines chemical and physical limits for ULSD
- ASTM Methods: ASTM D975, D4737, D4629, D5453 for sulfur, cetane, and water
- ISO Standards: ISO 8217, ISO 12156-1 for lubricity, ISO 12937 for water content
- Regular Laboratory Testing: Certified labs provide quality certificates for export
4. Documentation Required for Export
Exported diesel must be accompanied by accurate and verified documentation:
- Certificate of Analysis (COA) verifying sulfur content, cetane, density, water, and CFPP
- Batch numbers and refinery origin
- Compliance with destination country standards
- Shipping and safety documentation (MSDS, IMDG if transported by sea)
- Additive declaration and compatibility with engine OEM requirements
5. Storage and Handling Requirements for Export
- Clean, corrosion-free storage tanks with secondary containment
- Proper filtration and water separation to maintain quality during loading and transit
- Temperature control to prevent oxidation and wax formation
- Monitoring and documentation of tank conditions
6. Regulatory Compliance by Region
Different export markets may impose additional requirements:
- European Union: Must comply with EN590 ULSD ≤10 ppm, CFPP, and DPF compatibility
- North America: Must meet ASTM D975 ULSD standards, cetane requirements, and environmental regulations
- Asia: Countries like Japan, South Korea, and China have local specifications for sulfur, cetane, and cold flow properties
- Middle East & Africa: Some countries accept EN590 compliance but may require CFPP adjustments for local temperatures
7. Quality Control and Laboratory Testing
- Sampling according to ISO 3170 and ISO 4259 for representative results
- Testing for sulfur, cetane, density, viscosity, water, and particulate content
- Verification of additive compatibility and lubricity standards
- Regular audits by independent laboratories for international buyers
8. Risks of Non-Compliance
- Rejection of shipment at destination port
- Fines or penalties for exceeding sulfur or other specifications
- Damage to reputation and trade relationships
- Potential engine warranty issues for end-users
9. FAQ — EN590 Diesel Export Quality
- Is EN590 ULSD 10 ppm mandatory for all exports?
Not globally, but many countries require ULSD compliance for road vehicles and modern engines. - How is sulfur content verified?
By ASTM D5453, EN ISO 20884, or equivalent certified laboratory methods. - Do cold climate regions require special CFPP adjustments?
Yes, exporters must adjust cloud point/CFPP to ensure fuel remains pumpable in destination temperatures. - Can additives be included for export diesel?
Yes, as long as they comply with EN590 and do not affect sulfur or cetane compliance. - What documentation is required for international shipment?
COA, MSDS, batch number, additive declaration, and shipping documentation.
Conclusion — Ensuring Market Acceptance
Exporting EN590 ULSD 10 ppm diesel requires strict adherence to chemical, physical, and regulatory quality standards. Ensuring compliance through laboratory testing, proper storage, filtration, documentation, and additive management guarantees smooth market acceptance, engine compatibility, and long-term trade relationships.
📩 Contact EN590 Diesel Export Experts
For guidance on export compliance, laboratory testing, and documentation:
- Fuel quality verification and COA preparation
- Additive compatibility and engine OEM compliance
- Storage, handling, and shipment best practices
📩 info@nnrvtradepartners.com
Ensure your EN590 diesel exports meet international standards for quality, safety, and compliance.
