Grade 3 Diesel is a refined, low-sulfur middle-distillate petroleum fuel engineered for high-performance diesel engines operating under demanding commercial and industrial conditions. It delivers efficient combustion, enhanced fuel stability, cleaner engine operation, and reduced exhaust emissions compared to lower-grade diesel fuels.
This grade is widely preferred in modern diesel engines equipped with advanced fuel injection and emission-control systems, where consistent fuel quality directly impacts engine efficiency, durability, and regulatory compliance.
Key Characteristics
Low Sulfur Content: Hydroprocessed to minimize SOₓ emissions and protect DOC, DPF, and SCR systems
High Cetane Number: Faster ignition, smoother combustion, reduced knock and vibration
Superior Stability: Resistant to oxidation, sludge, and injector deposits
Enhanced Lubricity: Additive-treated to protect high-pressure pumps and injectors
Physical & Chemical Properties
| Property | Typical Range |
|---|---|
| Density @ 15°C | 820 – 860 kg/m³ |
| Cetane Number | ≥ 50 |
| Flash Point | > 52°C |
| Viscosity @ 40°C | 2.0 – 4.5 cSt |
| Sulfur Content | Low sulfur (regulated limits) |
| Distillation Range | 200°C – 360°C |
| Calorific Value | ~42 – 45 MJ/kg |
Refining & Production Process
Fractional Distillation: Extracted from the middle distillate fraction of crude oil
Hydrodesulfurization (HDS): Removes sulfur, nitrogen, and oxygen compounds
Additive Treatment: Cetane improvers, antioxidants, corrosion inhibitors, deposit control additives
Performance Advantages
Higher engine efficiency and power output
Reduced fuel consumption and maintenance cost
Cleaner injectors and combustion chambers
Lower smoke, particulate matter, and NOₓ emissions
Reliable operation under continuous heavy load
Applications
Commercial transportation (trucks, buses, fleets)
Construction and infrastructure equipment
Diesel generators (prime and backup power)
Industrial machinery and material handling
Mining and agricultural equipment
Marine auxiliary engines (where compliant)
Environmental & Regulatory Compliance
Meets modern low-sulfur diesel standards
Compatible with emission-control technologies (DOC, DPF, SCR)
Supports reduced particulate and acid rain formation
Aligned with sustainability and cleaner combustion initiatives
Storage & Handling
Store in clean, dry tanks to prevent contamination
Stable during long-term storage when properly treated
Use water separators and periodic fuel testing
Compatible with standard diesel storage and logistics infrastructure
Comparison with Lower-Grade Diesel
| Parameter | Grade 3 Diesel | Lower-Grade Diesel |
|---|---|---|
| Sulfur Content | Low | Higher |
| Cetane Rating | Higher | Lower |
| Combustion Quality | Cleaner & smoother | Rougher |
| Engine Wear | Minimal | Higher |
| Emissions | Reduced | Higher |