Are you ready for winter? There’s no doubt that for winter in Western Canada, maintenance on your equipment is a crucial part of getting ready for the busy season ahead.
An important part of your plan should include your winter fuel needs. To ensure your equipment performs as optimally as possible when you need it to, Co-op Premium Diesel and Co-op High Performance Diesel are seasonally adjusted with the cooler weather in mind.
The Co-op Refinery Complex (CRC), located in Regina, Sask., makes adjustments to fuel blends regularly. However, the primary switch of diesel blends happens twice per year in preparation for summer and winter weather. With the harsh winter temperatures experienced in Canada, diesel can gel up, which leads to long-term wear on equipment and reduced fuel efficiency. The lighter components in winter diesel blends keep viscosity problems at bay.
Winter Diesel Blends: What’s Different?
- Cloud Point is adapted to increase flow capability. This specification measures the temperature at which crystal formation starts in diesel fuel, an indication of the operability in low temperatures.
- Pour Point, another important diesel specification, is altered to reduce fuel viscosity, which often occurs when the temperature changes, increasing overall fuel performance.
- De-icers protect system integrity and offer improved performance at sub-zero temperatures.
- Enhanced lubricity additives reduce engine and fuel system wear.
When to Switch to Winter Diesel
While winter diesel can be used through the early stages of spring, it’s crucial to use up your summer diesel before cold weather hits. Because the seasonal blends are designed to optimize performance in specific seasonal conditions, it is recommended to empty your tank of summer diesel as much as possible prior to receiving a winter blend. This will ensure the largest volume of incoming winter diesel, minimize the amount of off-season diesel in your tank, and maximize your performance by using the correct seasonal blend.
Winter diesel blends are typically available from late fall to early spring, dependent on geographical needs. Contact your local Co-op Fuel Team member to learn more about the shift to winter diesel, fuel properties and how to manage your fuel supply.