Aggregates Manager Digital Magazine
Issue link: https://read.dmtmag.com/i/91809
EQUIPMENT MANAGEMENT Lab and field tests reveal that the superior anti-wear additives in quality engine oils can significantly reduce engine wear, increasing the productive life of the engine. (ULSD) — diesel fuel with a sulfur con- tent of less than 15 ppm. Using diesel fuels with sulfur content greater than 15 ppm can damage the exhaust filter, lead- ing to early replacement. Some Interim Tier 4 engines also op- erate efficiently with biodiesel blends, providing fuel-choice flexibility. If you opt to run biodiesel, a 5-percent blend (B5) is preferred, but a biodiesel concen- tration of up to 20 percent (B20) may be used. Regardless of biodiesel blend level, verify with your fuel provider that the biodiesel blend meets ASTM D6751 (U.S.) standards. Use only fuel additives that are ap- proved by the engine manufacturer. Re- gardless of what fuel or additive you use, frequent fuel sampling and analysis is a good fleet management practice. Fuel quality is essential to Interim Tier 4 engine performance and reliability. In addition, an unrestricted and uncontami- nated fuel flow is, obviously, very impor- tant in ensuring the proper operation and long life of your diesel engine. Therefore, when performing fuel sys- tem maintenance, remember the follow- ing best practices. Inspect dry-element type filters and replace if clogged with dust or dirt or if they have damaged seams and pleats. supply or return. other foreign matter. nated with water. Water in the fuel system is the greatest cause of fuel injection system failure. Daily inspection of the fuel filter and draining the water from the fuel required will ensure that the fuel sys- tem is protected. separating filter to further protect engines by filtering out dirt, rust, and filter. The filter element should be changed annually or more often if fuel flow becomes restricted. Lubrication system Well-designed machinery lasts a long time if cared for properly. This care is especially crucial where lubricants protect critical components. Following engine manufacturer recommendations for high-quality lubricants and periodic maintenance can prevent machinery from wearing out prematurely. With the introduction of exhaust fil- ters in many Interim Tier 4 engines, the type of engine oil used can have a sig- nificant impact on the proper function- ing and ash service life of these devices. refined with a lower trace metal content, which reduces ash accumulation and in- creases exhaust filter service life. Lab and field tests reveal that the supe- rior anti-wear additives in quality engine oils can significantly reduce engine wear, increasing the productive life of the en- gine. They also extend drain intervals and reduce piston deposits, which lead to a cleaner engine that will last longer and provide consistent power. Unfortunately, all lubricants gradually lose effectiveness during operation due to chemical and physical changes in the lubricant. The deterioration process is accelerated by contaminants from ex- ternal and internal sources. That's why following manufacturer-recommended lubricant change intervals for normal op- erating conditions is so important. More frequent changes are recommended when operating in extreme environ- ments, such as in very hot or dusty con- ditions, or at high altitudes. Oil analysis can be performed to ensure that the rec- ommended service interval is adequate for your application. lubricants cannot function properly if they are dirty. Be sure to do the following: in an area protected from dirt and the container and service points be- fore performing lubrication service. AGGREGATES MANAGER November 2012 31