The effect of bacteria contaminated diesel on an engine and its performance is dramatic and devastating. 

 

 

Bacteria

• form thick mats rapidly
• feed on the fuel’s potential energy and reduce calorific value and lubricating properties 
• excrete acids and gums as waste products throughout the system 
• reduce sulphates to sulphides, creating acidic environments

Engine firing and performance are affected and this results in:

• Fuel starvation: lines and filters clog, with costly, often dangerous, breakdowns.                                                                                                                                   Cause: Bacteria matting and/or excreted gum deposits in fuel lines.
• Flow restrictions affect injectors and fuel lines. Gum builds up and Injectors and injection pumps fail.
  Cause: bacteria, particularly SRB’s, produce sulphides and gums, shortening their life
• Loss of power and uneven firing of cylinders resulting in varying power outputs.
  Cause: reduced calorific value
• Uneven wear in the rings and cylinder bores
  Cause: incomplete combustion leading to uneven firing due to loss of the fuel’s calorific value and potential energy.
• Damage to camshaft, cylinder linings, rings and bearings.
  Cause: uneven firing due to uneven atomisation and mixing affect Camshaft torque.
•  Engine head pitting and corrosion of the crank components escalates rectification costs. 
  Cause: Acid action of Sulphate Reducing Bacteria (SRB's) and gums leaching into the lubricating oil. 
• Corrosion: in the fuel tanks, lines, pump and injectors causing an incomplete burn leading to increased fuel consumption and eventual breakdown.
  Cause: SRB action, acids and gums
• Faulty gauges or incorrect readings
  Cause:  Biomass interference with sensors 
• Black smoke:     
  Cause:   Un-burnt fuel and incomplete combustion, faulty injectors and firing       

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