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Questions:

GTL Fuel FAQ: Learn more about the Gas to Liquid fuel

Q: What is GTL?  

A: Shell GTL Fuel is a cleaner-burning direct diesel & gas oil replacement made from natural gas.

As an end product it is chemically very similar to diesel & gas oil, however it provides an

enhanced and cleaner performance compared to standard diesel.

Q: What are paraffinic fuels?

A: Paraffinic fuels are clean, high quality diesel fuels made from a wide variety of feedstocks, and include GTL (Gas to liquid), as well as HVO (Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil). Paraffinic fuels are fungible and can be used at any blending rates up to 100% in current and future diesel engines.

Q: Is GTL better than standard white diesel?

A: The MCPD has a NOx limit of 190mg/Nm3@15%O2 for all combustion plant/generators in the 1-50MWth range. It’s essential that engines comply.

Broadly speaking, it has the emissions advantages of gas and the convenience of diesel. Depending on the engine type, it can reduce NOx emissions by up to 25% and particulate emissions by up to 38%.

Q: How is GTL made?

A: GTL is made by the Fischer-Tropsch process which converts natural gasses into oil.

Q: What is FAME diesel?

A: Diesel is a type of fuel most commonly used to power on-road vehicles and other forms of transport such as cars, lorries, trains, and boats. Diesel is refined from crude oil at petroleum refineries. In the US, these refineries produce 12 gallons of diesel from each 42 gallon barrel of crude oil.

Q: What is the difference between standard diesel and GTL?

A: GTL is able to mimic all of the essential properties of biodiesel whilst reducing NOx emissions by up to 25% and particulate emissions by up to 38%.

Q: What is the cetane number of diesel?

A: FAME biodiesel has a cetane number between 50 and 65 – whereas GTL has a cetane number between 70 and 90 which provides better starting performance, clean combustion, and less chance of waxing in extremely cold weather.

Q: What can GTL be used for?

A: GTL is suitable for use in all diesel-powered vehicles and industrial powered generators.

Q: Can my vehicle run on pure GTL?

A: Yes, absolutely! The similarities between diesel and GTL mean that it can be used as a drop-in alternative in most cases. But we always advise to check with your engine manufacturer first.

Q: Is GTL approved by OEMs?

A: Yes, there is a growing list of manufacturers who have approved Shell GTL Fuel for use including DAF, Scania, Caterpillar, Cummins, John Deere and MAN. The publication of the EN-15940 specification for paraffinic fuels does not automatically mean they are approved by OEMs. OEMs need to conduct additional testing to meet EU requirements and then grant an additional approval.

However, there has so far been a 100% acceptance rate for Shell GTL Fuel by OEMs.

Q: Can GTL be mixed with diesel?

A: GTL is a drop-in fuel meaning that it can be mixed with standard diesel. However, in order to see the full benefits GTL offers, we would recommend a full tank clean prior to the swich from diesel to GTL.

Q: Can GTL cause any engine problems?

A: GTL fuel can be used in most diesel engines, but you should always check with the engine manufacturer’s recommendations for each use.

Q: How long is the delivery window for GTL?

A: GTL is just as accessible to Ukay energy as conventional diesel so you do not need to allow for any prolonged delivery times and can place orders as normal.

Q: How can I buy GTL?

A: Don’t hesitate to give us a call on 01376 574 650 and we will be happy to place an order for you.

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