Petrochemicals producer Shell Commercial Fuels launched a new formulation of its FuelSave diesel additive-based fuel in South Africa on October 28.

The company says the fuel incorporates injector cleaning properties, along with other efficiency benefits.

Aimed at commercial clients in the road transport, construction, mining, agriculture and manufacturing sectors, FuelSave is said to clean fuel injectors, as well as clear exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) systems, thereby improving the efficiency of a diesel engine and helping vehicle/engine operators improve efficiency and maintenance of their machinery.

Shell says that, throughout the life of an average heavy-duty diesel engine used for commercial purposes, the time will arise when an entire injector set requires replacement; but by using Shell’s FuelSave diesel, injectors are constantly cleaned and kept clean, thereby mitigating or postponing the requirement to replace such components.

Shell claims that FuelSave is able to improve fuel efficiency by as much as 3.75% and achieve an 83% recovery in power (based on a Shell propriety test on a heavy-duty vehicle). This fuel saving translates into 7 ℓ saved per 195 ℓ fuel tank.

Shell also claims that FuelSave can protect against fuel system corrosion, prevent loss of load-pulling power and reduce the risk of fuel degradation.

Shell Commercial Fuels technology adviser Kong Hua Ong says that, with advancements in engine technology, increased workloads and operating costs, new ways of working and tightening environmental targets, diesel engine operators' choice of fuels are becoming increasingly important.

“Our new formulation FuelSave diesel is designed to ease these stressors by ensuring equipment is less likely to fall foul of engine deposits.

“[FuelSave] combines key ingredients, including a deposit control additive to target and remove injector deposits with a combustion improver which helps keep the EGR system clean. This helps to promote better engine performance, reduce downtime and drive down maintenance costs, allowing businesses to maintain a competitive edge,” he adds.

FuelSave diesel also incorporates formulas to reduce foaming while dispensing, thereby making it quicker to decant or refuel diesel into equipment and plant.