FILTER ELEMENT-OIL 1377249 - Caterpillar

Characteristics of Diesel Fuel
Lubricity and Low Sulfur Fuel
The fuel lubricity is important. You should consider the fuel's lubricity whenever you operate the equipment in arctic weather. Also, you should consider the fuel's lubricity whenever you use fuels that are lower in viscosity. There are many aftermarket additives that are available to treat fuel. If the fuel's lubricity is an issue, consult your fuel supplier for proper recommendations regarding fuel additives.Viscosity
The viscosity of the fuel is significant because the fuel serves as a lubricant for fuel system components. Arctic fuels need to have sufficient viscosity. The fuel must lubricate the fuel system at a temperature of 0°C (32°F) or below freezing. If the kinematic viscosity of the fuel is lower than 1.4 cSt as supplied to the fuel injection pump or to the unit injectors, excessive scuffing and seizure can occur.Cetane Number
The cetane number of the fuel has an effect on the ability of the engine to start. Also, the cetane number has an effect on the interval of time before the engine runs smoothly. Generally, an increase of ten in the cetane number will allow the engine to be started at a lower temperature. The starting temperature can be improved approximately 7 to 8°C (12 to 15°F) for every increase of ten in the cetane number. After the engine reaches the normal operating temperature, a change in the cetane from 40 to 50 will have a minimal effect on engine performance.During average starting conditions, direct injection engines require a minimum cetane number of 40. A higher cetane value may be required for operation in high altitudes or for cold weather operation. The minimum fuel cetane number that is required for the precombustion engine is 35.Modifying the Cetane Number
The cetane number of a fuel can be changed if the fuel is mixed with a fuel that has a different cetane number. Generally, the cetane number of the mixture will be in direct relation to the ratio of the fuels that were mixed. Your fuel supplier can provide the information about the cetane number of a particular fuel.Additives can also be used to improve the cetane number of a fuel. Additives are evaluated through testing in special engines. However, the fuel characteristics of additives are not identical to a natural product. While both fuels may be rated as having the same cetane number, starting may be different.Cloud Point
It is important to understand that the cloud point of a fuel is different from the pour point. There is no relationship between cloud point and the pour point. The cloud point is the temperature that allows some of the heavier components in the wax to solidify in the fuel. This wax is not a contaminant in the fuel. The wax is an important element of No. 2 diesel fuel. The wax has a high fuel energy content and the wax has a very high cetane value. Removal of the heavier wax lowers the cloud point of the fuel. Removal of the wax