As temperatures drop, choosing the right fuel for your equipment becomes critical. This month, we break down the differences between Number 1 and Number 2 diesel, helping you make informed decisions for winter operations.
Chemistry Behind Diesel Refining
Diesel is produced by refining crude oil through processes like distillation, cracking, hydrotreating, and blending. Canadian high-quality bitumen and light crude require different refining approaches due to their unique molecular compositions.
Number 1 vs. Number 2 Diesel: Key Differences
Number 1 Diesel
- Composition: Lighter, shorter hydrocarbon chains (10–16 carbon atoms).
- Refining: More heavily refined, lower boiling point, more volatile.
- Properties: Lower cetane number, lower energy density, excellent cold-weather performance (resists gelling).
- Uses: Ideal for cold climates and applications needing cleaner-burning fuel (e.g., jet fuel).
Number 2 Diesel
- Composition: Heavier, longer hydrocarbon chains (16–20 carbon atoms).
- Refining: Less processing, higher energy output per gallon.
- Properties: Higher cetane number, higher energy density, better for heavy-duty engines, but more prone to gelling in cold weather.
- Uses: Widely used in transportation, agriculture, and construction.
Why Number 2 Diesel Is Preferred for Most Applications
Higher Energy Content
- ~138,000 BTUs per gallon vs. ~130,000 BTUs for Number 1.
- Better fuel economy and more power for heavy-duty equipment.
Better Lubrication
- Natural lubricating properties reduce engine wear.
- Thicker consistency protects moving parts.
Lower Cost
- Less refined, cheaper to produce.
- More widely available, keeping prices stable.
Best for Warm Weather
- Prone to gelling in cold, but performs well in moderate climates.
- Can be blended with Number 1 diesel for winter use.
Heavy-Duty Performance
- Higher energy density means better performance under load.
- Thicker fuel resists wear in high-stress engines.
When to Choose Number 1 Diesel
- Cold Weather: Resists gelling, stays fluid at low temperatures.
- Cleaner Combustion: Fewer impurities, ideal for sensitive engines or extreme cold.
Conclusion
For most general and heavy-duty applications, Number 2 diesel offers higher energy content, better lubrication, and cost-effectiveness. However, in cold climates or for ultra-clean burning, Number 1 diesel may be the better choice.
Stay warm, stay efficient, and keep your engines running strong this winter! Our team at Kings Energy Group is here to tailor your fuel needs - contact us here.
Currently, the Lloydminster upgrader produces Number 1 diesel. Winnipeg typically supplies product from Lloydminster, while Regina offers clients a choice between Number 1 and Number 2 diesel.
Local Fuel Experts, National Network. GOKINGS.COM