We have developed this simple jar test to compare the ability of fuel additives to inhibit sludge formation and protect steel surfaces against fouling and corrosion in the presence of free water (condensation) and biological contamination. This test was first presented at a Brookhaven National Laboratory Oil Heat Technology Conference in 1996 and is designed to mimic real-world conditions. We have tested most of the additives currently on the market but if you don't see one on the list, we'll be happy to test it against Fuel Right®.

How It Works

Glass jars are filled with fuel oil or diesel fuel, a small amount of water, a steel panel or "coupon", and a small amount of sludge. One jar serves as the "control" and receives no additive. Each of the other jars is treated with an additive at the manufacturer's recommended dose. The jars are then loosely capped and placed in a dark box or closet.

Once a month the jars are opened, most of the fuel is removed and replaced with fresh fuel, and the jars are re-treated with their respective additives. This process is repeated until, after 12 to 18 months, the "control" coupon has become well fouled. At that point all jars are compared and scored based on:

    1. Fouling of the coupon surfaces
    2. Corrosion of the coupon (by weight loss)
    3. General growth of sludge (determined by pouring contents through a strainer)

Each jar is scored on a scale of 0-10, with the "control" scoring a "2" in each category. In any category, a score of less than "2" indicates the additive was actually worse than no treatment at all and a score of "10" indicates that additive was perfect in that regard. Below is an example of a typical result: