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The importance of clean diesel

Clean diesel protects fuel systems from wear and contamination, which is critical for modern diesel engines with advanced injection systems such as HPCR. Ditech AS offers filtration solutions that meet strict cleanliness requirements, extend equipment service life, and ensure optimal performance under demanding conditions.

Protect your fuel system with proper filtration

Diesel engine manufacturers are adopting new technologies to meet increasingly strict emissions regulations. One of the most widely implemented measures is the use of High Pressure Common Rail (HPCR) fuel injection systems, which are now standard across both light and heavy diesel engines. These systems operate at pressures ranging from approximately 1,860 to 3,100 BAR.

Fuel systems operating at such high pressures cannot tolerate contaminants, moisture, or contaminated fuel. In fact, even particles as small as bacteria can cause wear and material loss. This can impair the injectors’ ability to seal properly, and contamination often leads to premature failure of fuel pumps.

See our filtration solutions

Did you know?

It is not the filter’s fault when it becomes clogged. The filter is doing the job it is designed to do. If you use a coarser filter than recommended, you risk allowing more contamination to pass through the system.

Why is cleanliness critical?

To protect fuel systems, many engine manufacturers now require fuel to be supplied at a specified cleanliness level. Excessive contamination in the tank can affect warranty conditions.

Common ISO cleanliness standards in the industry:

ISO 22/21/18: Typical cleanliness level for fluids
ISO 18/16/13: Target for heavy gear and engine oils
ISO 16/14/11: Target for hydraulic and transmission oils
ISO 14/13/11: Target for diesel fuel

Although fuel typically leaves refineries in a clean state, contamination levels can increase during transport and distribution. The most common sources of contamination are poor handling practices or ageing infrastructure.

Challenges with new fuel types

Newer fuels such as Ultra Low Sulfur Diesel (ULSD) and biofuels have introduced challenges related to corrosion and complex contamination issues. Additives that were previously stable may now react, leading to the formation of gels and sludge.

Are your filters clogging faster than normal? This may be due to chemical changes in the fuel or oil. In many cases, bacteria or chemical reactions are the root cause of filter issues, rather than solid particles in the fuel.

Did you know?

Biodiesel can act as a solvent and may clean existing infrastructure when first introduced, increasing the load on filtration systems. Biodiesel also has a higher gelling temperature and contains glycerin, which can cause rapid filter clogging. The best approach is to remove any solidified glycerin before it reaches your equipment.