3600 and C280 Diesel Engine Fluids Recommendations Caterpillar

Biodiesel is a fuel that can be made from various renewable resources that include vegetable oils, animal fat, and waste cooking oil. Soybean oil and rapeseed oil are the primary vegetable oil sources. The raw oils or animal fats are chemically processed (esterified) to form a fatty acid methyl ester (referred to as FAME). The esterified product (FAME) is biodiesel fuel that can be used in compression ignition engines. Without the chemical processing referred to as esterification, the oils or fats are not suitable for use as fuel in compression ignition engines. To use any of the oils or fats listed above as fuel, the oil or fat must be esterified and the water and contaminants removed.

Fuel made of 100 percent FAME is referred to as B100 biodiesel or neat biodiesel.

Biodiesel can be blended with distillate diesel fuel. The blends can be used as fuel. The most commonly available biodiesel blends are B5, which is 5 percent biodiesel and 95 percent distillate diesel fuel, and B20, which is 20 percent biodiesel and 80 percent distillate diesel fuel. Note the percentages are volume-based.

U.S. distillate diesel fuel specification "ASTM D975-09a" includes up to B5 (5 percent) biodiesel. Currently, any diesel fuel in the U.S. may contain up to B5 biodiesel fuel.

European distillate diesel fuel specification "EN 590" includes up to B5 (5 percent) and in some regions up to B7 (7 percent) biodiesel. Any diesel fuel in Europe may contain up to B5 or in some regions up to B7 biodiesel fuel.

Note: The user of the engine has the responsibility of using the correct fuel that is recommended by the manufacturer. The fuel must be allowed by the U.S. EPA and other appropriate regulatory agencies.

Cat is not in a position to evaluate the many variations of biodiesel and the long-term effects on performance, durability, or compliance to emissions standards for Cat products.

Note: In order to align Cat recommendations with the latest revision of "ASTM D7467" specification for B6-B20 blends and to ensure that biodiesel fuel meets defined quality standards, Cat recommendations for acceptable biodiesel blend for most engines have been changed to B20. Details on the use of higher blends are given in this “Biodiesel” section of this Special Publication.

Recommendations for the Use of Biodiesel in Cat Nonroad Engines

Refer to table 2 and 3 to the details provided in this section for biodiesel fuel requirements.

In order to be acceptable for blending, the biodiesel constituent must meet the requirements that are listed in “Cat Specification for Biodiesel Fuel” in this Special Publication, the latest edition of "ASTM D6751", and/or the latest edition of "EN14214".

Biodiesel blends of up to B5 must meet the requirements for the distillate diesel fuel that are listed in the “Cat Specification for Distillate Diesel Fuel for On-Highway Engines” in this Special Publication, the latest edition of "ASTM D975", and/or the latest edition of "EN 590".

Biodiesel blends of B6 to B20 must meet the requirements listed in the latest edition of "ASTM D7467" (B6 to B20) and must be of an API gravity of 30-45.

Distillate diesel fuels that meet the requirements of “Cat Specification for Distillate Diesel Fuel for On-Highway Engines” in this Special Publication, the "National Conference on Weights and Measures "(NCWM) Premium Diesel definition, the latest edition of "ASTM D975 S15" designation, and/or the latest edition of "EN 590", sulfur free designation. No. 1-D and No. 2-D are examples of fuels that are acceptable for creating biodiesel blends.

For Tier 4 applications in the U.S., the diesel fuel portion of the final blend must meet the requirements of S15 fuels (15 ppm sulfur) designations in the latest edition of "ASTM D975" specification. For Stage IIIB and later applications in EU, the diesel fuel portion of the final blend must meet the requirements for sulfur free (10 ppm sulfur) designation in the latest edition of "EN 590". The final blend must have 15 ppm sulfur.

Note: For Tier 4 certified/ Stage IIIB and newer engine models that are equipped with aftertreatment devices, use only the biodiesel blend levels that are recommended in “Recommendations for biodiesel fuel application in Cat Nonroad Engines” in this Special Publication, table 1. Use of biodiesel blend levels higher than the recommendations provided in table 1 can adversely affect engine and aftertreatment components due to contaminants. The repair of any engine or aftertreatment components due to such contamination or due to other biodiesel impacts would not be covered under the Cat warranty. Refer to “Additional Maintenance Requirements” topic in this Special Publication, "Biodiesel" article.

Note: For 2006 and older engine models, for use of blends of biodiesel above B20 (20 percent), refer to “Guidelines and potential impacts associated with the use of biodiesel and biodiesel blends” table 3 in this Special Publication for the guidelines and impacts of using high biodiesel blends. Consult your Cat dealer for guidance. Use the Cat S·O·S Services oil analysis program when biodiesel or blends of biodiesel that are B20 (20 percent) or above are used.

Either "ASTM D7371" - “Test Method for Determination of Biodiesel (Fatty Acid Methyl Esters) Content in Diesel Fuel Oil Using Mid Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR-ATR-PLS Method)” or "EN 14078" “- Liquid Petroleum Products - Determination of fatty acid methyl esters (FAME) in middle distillates -Infrared spectroscopy method” can be used for determining the volume percent biodiesel in a biodiesel blend.

For applications running biodiesel or biodiesel blends, the recommendation is to use either Cat Diesel Fuel System Cleaner (Part number 343-6210) or Cat Diesel Fuel Conditioner (Part number 256-4968). Cat Diesel Fuel System Cleaner, used as needed or on an on-going basis, is most effective at cleaning and preventing the formation of fuel-related deposits. Cat Diesel Fuel Conditioner can be used to improve fuel stability and can help prevent the formation of fuel-related deposits.

Additional maintenance requirements

When biodiesel fuel is used, crank case oil and aftertreatment systems may be influenced. This influence is due to the chemical composition and characteristics of biodiesel fuel such as density and volatility. Chemical contaminants can be present in this fuel, such as phosphorous, alkali, and alkaline metals (sodium, potassium, calcium, and magnesium).

• Crankcase oil fuel dilution can be higher when biodiesel and/or biodiesel blends are used. This increased level of fuel dilution when using biodiesel and/or biodiesel blends is related to the typically lower volatility of biodiesel. In-cylinder emissions control strategies utilized in many of the latest engine designs may lead to a higher level of biodiesel concentration in the sump. The long-term effect of biodiesel concentration in crankcase oil is currently unknown. The use of Cat S·O·S Services oil analysis is recommended when up to B20 (20 percent) and lower biodiesel blends are used. Analysis is required when using biodiesel/biodiesel blends that are B20 or above. When requesting oil analysis, be sure to note the level of biodiesel being used (B5, B20, and so on).

• Biodiesel fuel contains metal contaminants (phosphorous, sodium, potassium, calcium, and/or magnesium) that form ash products upon combustion in the diesel engine. The ash can affect the life and performance of aftertreatment emissions control devices and can accumulate in Diesel Particulate Filters (DPF). The ash accumulation may cause the need for more frequent ash service intervals and/or cause loss of performance.

Fuel System Deposits

Biodiesel and biodiesel blends are known to cause an increase in fuel system deposits, most significant of which are deposits within the fuel injector. These deposits can cause a loss in power due to restricted or modified fuel injection or cause other functional issues associated with these deposits. Cat Diesel Fuel System Cleaner (part number 343-6210) is most effective in cleaning and preventing the formation of deposits. Cat Diesel Fuel Conditioner (part number 256-4968) helps to limit deposit issues by improving the stability of biodiesel and biodiesel blends. The production of new deposits is also inhibited. Therefore, the use of Cat Diesel Fuel System Cleaner and/or Cat Diesel Fuel Conditioner is recommended when running any biodiesel or biodiesel blends. Refer to this Special Publication, "Distillate Diesel Fuel", article, “Cat Diesel Fuel Conditioner” and “Cat Diesel Fuel System Cleaner” topics in this Special Publication, "Distillate Diesel Fuel" for additional information.

Consult your Cat dealer for availability of Cat Diesel Fuel System Cleaner and Cat Diesel Fuel Conditioner.

Guidelines

Biodiesel that meets the requirements that are listed in the “Cat Specification for Biodiesel Fuel”, the latest edition of "ASTM D6751", or the latest edition of "EN 14214" is not expected to pose major problems when blended with an acceptable distillate diesel fuel at the maximum stated percentages. However, the following recommendations should be followed:

Note: For these recommendations, the cautions, guidelines, and recommendations applicable to biodiesel (B100) are also applicable to biodiesel blends (B2, B5, B20, and so on). The impacts of biodiesel blends higher than B20 are, in general, more severe than the impacts of biodiesel blends of B20 or lower. Refer to Table 3 of this Biodiesel section for more details.

Note: Fuel storage tanks need to be cleaned thoroughly before converting to biodiesel/biodiesel blends. Conversion to biodiesel/biodiesel blends can loosen fuel system and fuel storage tank deposits. All tank filters and engine filters must shorten the change intervals for an extended time in order to allow for this cleaning effect.

In North America, the use of biodiesel from "BQ-9000" accredited producers and marketers is required. Look for the "BQ-9000" biodiesel quality accreditation program certification logo that is available to distributors that meet the requirements of "BQ-9000". For more information on the "BQ-9000" program, go to “www.BQ-9000.org”.

In other areas of the world, the use of biodiesel that is "BQ-9000" accredited and certified, or that is accredited and certified by a comparable biodiesel quality body to meet similar biodiesel quality control standards, is required.

Information provided in this table refers to biodiesel and biodiesel blends that fully comply with the appropriate specifications as described in the “Biodiesel” section of this Special Publication and to handling and maintenance procedures that follow recommended guidelines.

The following are the paragraph reference numbers:

1. The oil change interval can be negatively affected by the use of biodiesel. Use S·O·S Services oil analysis in order to monitor the condition of the engine oil. S·O·S Services oil analysis will also help determine the oil change interval that is optimum.

2. Confirm with the filter manufacturer that the fuel filter/filters to be used are compatible with biodiesel. Fuel water separators are preferred when biodiesel is used.

   Note: Cat fuel filters and Cat fuel water separators are compatible with biodiesel fuel.

3. Conversion to biodiesel can loosen fuel system deposits. Fuel filter change intervals must be shortened for an extended time in order to allow for this cleaning effect. Filter change interval of 50 hours or less is recommended following the initial conversion to B20 biodiesel blend.

4. Filter biodiesel and biodiesel blends through a fuel filter with a rating of four microns(c) absolute or less. Filters should be located on the device that dispenses the fuel to the fuel tank for the engine. Filters should be located on the device that dispenses fuel from the bulk storage tank. Series filtration is recommended.

5. In a comparison of distillate fuels to biodiesel, neat biodiesel (B100) typically provides less energy per gallon by 5 percent to 8 percent. Do NOT attempt to change the engine rating in order to compensate for the power loss. Engine problems may occur when the engine is converted back to 100 percent distillate diesel fuel. Any adjustments to the engine to compensate for the power loss may result in violation of emissions regulations such as the U.S. EPA anti-tampering provisions.

6. Compatibility of the elastomers with biodiesel is currently being monitored. The condition of seals and hoses should be monitored regularly. Biodiesel may soften, degrade, or leak from some types of elastomers used in seals and hoses. The higher biodiesel blend has a greater the risk of elastomer-related issues.

   1. In general, Cat engines built early to mid 90s use Viton seals and Viton O-rings in the fuel system. Viton is compatible with biodiesel.

   2. Nitrile hoses typically used in some fuel transfer lines are not compatible with biodiesel. Monitor the condition of the hoses and confirm with the hose manufacturer that the hoses are compatible with the biodiesel blend used. If necessary, replace with hoses of compatible materials.

7. Biodiesel may pose low ambient temperature problems for both storage and operation. At low ambient temperatures, biodiesel fuel may need to be stored in a heated building or a heated storage tank. The fuel system may require heated fuel lines, filters, and tanks. Filters may plug and fuel in the tank may solidify at low ambient temperatures if precautions are not taken. Consult your biodiesel supplier for assistance in the blending and attaining of the proper cloud point for the fuel.

   Note: The performance of cold flow improvers can be reduced in the presence of biodiesel fuel. Consult the fuel supplier for appropriate cold flow improvers if needed.

8. Biodiesel can be produced using various renewable sources. The source used can affect product performance. Two of the fuel characteristics affected are cold flow and oxidation stability. Cold flow affects filter plugging and oxidation stability affects deposit formation and biodiesel fuel storage duration and life. Consult your fuel supplier for guidance.

9. Biodiesel has poor oxidation stability, which may accelerate fuel oxidation in the fuel system. Engines with an electronic fuel system operate at higher temperatures, which may accelerate fuel oxidation. Oxidized fuel can form deposits in fuel injection systems and in fuel systems in general. Refer to this Special Publication, "Distillate Diesel Fuel" article, “Aftermarket Fuel Additives”, “Cat Diesel Fuel Conditioner”, and “Cat Diesel Fuel System Cleaner” topics for information concerning oxidation stability and other fuel additives.

10. Poor oxidation stability of biodiesel can result in long-term storage problems. Biodiesel should be used within a limited time from production. In order to ensure appropriate storage duration, testing of the stored biodiesel is recommended. Tests should include oxidation, acid number, viscosity, and sediments. Tests should be conducted periodically to ensure that biodiesel is per specification. Antioxidants are recommended to improve stability of biodiesel. Cat Diesel Fuel Conditioner, part number 256-4968, or appropriate commercial additives are recommended. Consult your fuel supplier for more information.

    1. B20 biodiesel blend can generally be stored up to 8 months. Testing of B20 blends is recommended at 4 months of storage and on a monthly basis thereafter to ensure that the fuel has not degraded.

    2. B100 biodiesel can generally be stored up to 4 months. Testing of B100 is recommended at 2 months of storage and every two weeks thereafter to ensure that the fuel has not degraded. The use of appropriate additives is required if B100 is stored more than 4 months. Consult your fuel supplier for more information.

    3. B100 should be stored at temperatures of 3 degrees C to 6 degrees C (5 degrees F to 10 degrees F) above the cloud point.

11. Due to poor oxidation stability and other potential issues, Cat recommends that engines with limited operational time (such as seasonal use or standby power generation) either not use biodiesel/biodiesel blends or, while accepting some risk, limit biodiesel to a maximum of B5. Examples of applications that should limit the use of biodiesel are the following: Standby Generator sets and certain emergency vehicles. For more information, refer to the “Seaconal Operation” section.

    1. Addition of Cat Diesel Fuel Conditioner, part number 256-4968, or an appropriate commercial additive containing antioxidants/oxidation stability improvers, is recommended for standby generator sets and emergency vehicles using biodiesel/biodiesel blends. The conditioner should be added when the engine is fueled or as early as possible when the fuel is delivered and stored. Preferably, the conditioner or additive should be added as soon as possible after the fuel is produced.

    2. For standby generator sets and emergency vehicles that use biodiesel, sample the fuel in the engine tank monthly. Test the fuel for acid number and oxidation stability. If the test results show that the fuel is degraded and that the fuel is not per the appropriate specifications (provided in Table 4 in this “Biodiesel” section), drain the tank, flush the engine by running using high-quality fuel. Repeat the process until the system is clean. Refill with high-quality fuel following the recommendations provided in this “Fuel” section

    3. For standby generator sets and emergency vehicles that use biodiesel, Cat recommends that the fuel oxidation stability is 10 hours or more per "EN 14112" test method.

12. Biodiesel is an excellent medium for microbial contamination and growth. Microbial contamination and growth can cause corrosion in the fuel system and premature plugging of the fuel filter. Consult your supplier of fuel and additive for assistance in selecting appropriate anti-microbial additives.

13. Care must be taken in order to remove water from fuel tanks. Water accelerates microbial contamination and growth. When biodiesel is compared to distillate fuels, water is naturally more likely to exist in the biodiesel.

14. Biodiesel dilution of engine oil may result in oil side leaks due to incompatibility of the seals that are typically used on the oil side. Liner seals and oil cooler seals may be affected by biodiesel dilution. Monitor the condition of the oil side seals and consult your Cat dealer for appropriate replacement if needed.

15. Biodiesel is not compatible with some metals. Biodiesel of blends higher than B20 will oxidize and form sediments upon long-term contact with lead, zinc, tin, copper, and copper alloys such as brass and bronze. Consult your dealer for more information.

Note: The use of biodiesel at a B2 level improves the lubricity of the final blend by an estimated 66 percent. Increasing the blend level higher than B2 does not improve the lubricity any further.

Seasonal Operation

Cat recommends that seasonally operated engines have the fuel systems, including fuel tanks, flushed with conventional diesel fuel before prolonged shutdown periods. Applications that should seasonally flush the fuel system include school buses (U.S.) and farm machinery.

Perform the following process before shutting down the engine for prolonged periods:

1. Operate the engine until the fuel level in the tank is low.

2. Refill the fuel tank with high quality conventional distillate diesel fuel.

3. Repeat steps 1 and 2 a minimum of two times before the engine is shut down for prolonged periods.

If distillate fuel is not available to operate the engine as described above, while accepting some risk, limit biodiesel to a maximum of B5. Follow the recommendations provided in this section and the guidelines given below to reduce the risk:

• Addition of Cat Diesel Fuel Conditioner, part number 256-4968, or an appropriate commercial additive containing antioxidants/oxidation stability improvers, is recommended prior to engine shutdown for prolonged periods. The conditioner should be added when the engine is fueled. Preferably, the conditioner is added to the fuel as soon as possible after the fuel production.

• Addition of Cat Diesel Fuel System Cleaner, part number 343-6210, or an appropriate commercial cleaner is recommended when the engine is first operated after the prolonged shutdown period and preferably for a total of two tanks of fuel. Follow the recommendations provided in the Cat Diesel Fuel System Cleaner section in the “Fuel” article in this Special Publication.

Consult your Cat dealer for the availability of Cat Diesel Fuel Conditioner and Cat Diesel Fuel System Cleaner.

Biodiesel Specification

Biodiesel fuel used that is used for blending must meet the requirements in the following table.

The final blend of biodiesel as used in the engine must meet the requirements that are stated in table 2 this “Biodiesel” article.

B100 intended for blending into diesel fuel that is expected to give satisfactory vehicle performance at fuel temperatures at or below −12° C (10.4° F) shall comply with a cold soak filterability limit of 200 seconds maximum. Passing the "ASTM D6751" 200 seconds Cold Soak Filterability test limit does not guarantee cold performance for all biodiesel blends at all possible fuel temperatures, but biodiesel that fails this Cold Soak Filterability test requirement will produce biodiesel blends that will likely plug fuel filters when fuel temperatures are below −12° C (10.4° F).

Note: Fuels that meet the most current revision level of "ASTM D6751" or "EN 14214" may be used for blending with an acceptable distillate fuel. The conditions, recommendations, and limits that are noted in this Biodiesel section apply.

Referenced Documents

Refer to the “Reference Material - Fuel” section of this Special Publication for the reference material for the information in this section.