Agricultural fuel is the lifeblood of farming operations across the United Kingdom. From powering tractors to running generators and heating greenhouses, fuel plays a vital role in ensuring agricultural productivity. However, the quality and performance of this fuel are not constant—external factors, especially the weather, can significantly affect it. Understanding how weather influences fuel quality is essential for UK farmers who rely on uninterrupted and efficient machinery performance.
In this article, we’ll explore how various weather conditions, including temperature fluctuations, humidity, and seasonal changes, impact agricultural fuel. We’ll also offer practical tips to help farmers safeguard their fuel and maintain consistent performance year-round.
1. The Impact of Cold Weather on Agricultural Fuel
Cold temperatures are a major concern for agricultural fuel users, especially in rural parts of the UK where winters can be harsh.
Waxing and Gelling
Diesel fuel contains paraffin wax, which begins to solidify when temperatures drop. This phenomenon, known as "waxing" or "gelling," causes the fuel to thicken, leading to clogged filters, restricted fuel lines, and engine start-up issues. Red diesel, commonly used in agriculture, is particularly susceptible.
Tip: To combat waxing, consider using winter-grade fuel or anti-wax additives. Storing fuel tanks indoors or underground can also help maintain more stable temperatures.
Cold Starts and Efficiency Loss
Engines require more energy to start in low temperatures. Cold fuel burns less efficiently, resulting in higher fuel consumption and increased emissions. For machinery that needs to start reliably in winter, ensuring your fuel system is winter-ready is critical.
2. Hot Weather and Fuel Degradation
While the UK might not experience extreme summer temperatures like other regions, warm spells and direct sun exposure can still impact fuel quality.
Oxidation and Fuel Breakdown
Heat accelerates the oxidation process in diesel fuel, especially when exposed to air. This results in the formation of gums, sediments, and varnish-like substances, which can block filters and damage injectors.
Tip: Use fuel stabilisers during summer to slow down degradation. Keep tanks sealed tightly and shaded from direct sunlight.
Microbial Growth
Warm temperatures combined with water contamination in fuel tanks create ideal conditions for microbial growth—also known as “diesel bug.” This microbial activity forms sludge at the tank’s base, which can block fuel lines and harm engine components.
Tip: Regularly inspect and clean tanks. Biocides can be used to prevent or treat microbial contamination.
3. The Role of Humidity and Moisture
Humidity is a persistent issue in many parts of the UK and can significantly affect fuel integrity.
Water Contamination
Moist air can cause condensation inside storage tanks, particularly during temperature fluctuations between day and night. Water sinks to the bottom of the tank, creating a layer that can promote microbial growth or get drawn into machinery, leading to engine corrosion and poor combustion.
Tip: Invest in water separators and regularly drain tanks to remove accumulated water. Choose tanks with sloped bottoms for better drainage.
4. Seasonal Fuel Blends in the UK
To combat seasonal issues, fuel suppliers in the UK often provide different blends of diesel for summer and winter.
Winter Diesel
Winter-grade diesel has a lower cold filter plugging point (CFPP), meaning it remains fluid at lower temperatures. Using summer-grade diesel in winter can cause performance issues.
Summer Diesel
Summer-grade diesel is more stable in warmer temperatures but less resistant to cold weather issues. Using it in winter can lead to gelling.
Tip: Always check with your supplier to ensure you’re using the correct seasonal blend. Order fuel in smaller quantities during seasonal transitions to avoid storing the wrong grade.
5. Best Practices for Fuel Storage in Changing Weather
Regardless of the weather, proper fuel storage is crucial to maintaining quality. Here are some key practices UK farmers should follow:
Use bunded fuel tanks to prevent leaks and environmental damage.
Position tanks in shaded areas or under cover to reduce heat exposure.
Regularly test fuel quality, especially during seasonal changes.
Use fuel conditioners that improve storage life and prevent microbial growth.
Label and rotate stock, using older fuel first to avoid degradation.
Summary
Agricultural fuel is highly sensitive to environmental factors, especially in a country like the UK with its unpredictable and often damp climate. Cold weather can cause diesel to gel, warm temperatures can accelerate degradation, and moisture can lead to contamination and microbial growth. Seasonal fuel blends and proper storage are essential tools in the farmer’s arsenal.
By understanding how weather affects fuel quality and adopting a few simple maintenance practices, UK farmers can ensure their machinery runs smoothly all year round. This not only protects equipment and saves money but also contributes to more efficient and sustainable farming practices.
