Diesel Bugs for beginners
The diesel bug or jet fuel fungus could be multiplying in your diesel fuel system right now, or maybe you're here because you've already found them.
"So what!" you might say, "Why should I care about the diesel bug or jet fuel fungus?"
Diesel bug or jet fuel fungus microbes could be getting ready to overwhelm your fuel system, blocking your filters and stopping your engines.
Once stripped down, worst case scenario, if you've had the problem for some time, you could find your fuel lines and tanks are damaged beyond repair, pitted by the action of the carpet of bacteria, moulds and yeasts. A silent but potentially very expensive invasion!
Your next reasonable question is likely to be:
"Why now?" "I've never had a diesel bug or jet fuel fungus problem before!".
The EU has been steadily reducing, (and will continue to reduce), the sulphur content of diesel, in a quest to reduce emissions. Guess what: sulphur can act as a biocide. Also there is a growing trend to include a percentage of biofuel in the mixture, in a bid to extend the life of dwindling oil stocks. The inclusion of bio fuels, along with the reduction in sulphur content, seems to accelerate diesel bug and jet fuel fungus growth. This is due in part to the fact that biofuel attracts water, creating even more attractive conditions for diesel bug and jet fuel fungus microbes to multiply.
The next logical question is:
What should I do about the diesel bug or jet fuel fungus problem?
The first thing to do is to test your fuel, to see if you have the diesel bug or jet fuel fungus problem and if so, how bad it is. Then the next stage is to kill any diesel bug or jet fuel fungus microbes detected by treating with an appropriate biocide. From then on, best practice is to introduce a fuel hygiene regime, including testing as a regular part of planned maintenance. A yearly test is usually sufficient unless you refuel frequently in hot humid areas, or from diesel fuel sources of dubious quality. Testing the fuel before purchase may be advisable in these circumstances. The other key factor in keeping the diesel bug or jet fuel fungus at bay is regular draining of all water from the fuel tank. This means getting rid of both the pure water and the hazy fuel layers. Sadly, there is no single silver bullet.
Which test should I use?
Conidia Bioscience has a patented jet fuel fungus test, proven in the aviation industry, where it is currently in use by 300+ international airlines. The test gives results in 10 minutes without needing special skills, tools or lab conditions. The next generation diesel version of this fast, accurate, on-site diesel bug test was introduced to the marine community at Seawork 2010. The community was appreciative of the benefits of a test which requires no capital investment, special skills or equipment, and gives accurate results in just 10minutes.