Growmark provides biodiesel-blended Top Tier Diesel Fuel
Illinois-based agricultural cooperative Growmark Inc. is now providing biodiesel-blended Top Tier Diesel Fuel. The Top Tier Diesel Performance Standard was developed by a consortium of OEMs to benefit owners of diesel-powered vehicles and equipment. Newer diesel engines utilize high pressure common rail technology with smaller tolerances and higher fuel pressures. Retailers like Growmark whose fuel meets the requirements can license use of the Top Tier branding and logos on their dispensers and at their stations. The program just launched in October.
Relative to the ASTM D975 and D7467 specifications for diesel and biodiesel blends, the Top Tier Diesel Performance Standard requires detergents to reduce deposits on the fuel injectors, improve lubricity and fuel stability, and provide more protection against water and particulates that may be in the fuel before dispensing it into vehicles and equipment, according to the National Biodiesel Board.
“Since 1952, the FS System of member cooperatives has been supplying additized diesel fuel that outperforms conventional fuels,” said Curt Dunafin, manager of energy services with Growmark. “Reformulated in 2012 in response to the industry-wide onslaught of internal diesel injector deposits, Dieselex Gold ULS easily meets and exceeds the Top Tier Diesel Fuel requirements. From storage tank to fuel system and ultimately exhaust, our Dieselex Gold keeps systems clean, free of moisture and operating at peak efficiency.”
Growmark is one of the few licensed brands providing Top Tier Diesel Fuel. As a member of the NBB, Growmark has been an active participant in alternate fuel research, marketing and distribution for years.
“By blending biodiesel into Top Tier Diesel Fuel, Growmark is providing customers with even more benefits,” said Scott Fenwick, NBB’s technical director. “Biodiesel is cleaner burning than petroleum diesel, has higher cetane, provides better lubricity and is safer to handle and store. Blending biodiesel with any high-quality diesel fuel will help create a cleaner, safer and more efficient fuel overall.”
