Dive summary:
- The ultra low-sulfur diesel (ULSD) fuel mandated by the Environmental Protection Agency to reduce air pollution is less able to dissipate static electricity than high-sulfur fuel could, so proper grounding at fueling facilities is essential.
- ULSD has about 15 parts per million of sulfur, compared with about 5,000 ppm in prior fuel, and sulfur helped carry away built-up static.
- About 90% of off-road vehicles use diesel, making the change important for the construction industry, and the Association of Equipment Manufacturers prepared a bulletin explaining the changes.
From the release:
The bulletin urges industry workers to consult with their fuel or fuel system supplier to ensure the delivery system is in compliance with fueling standards for proper grounding and bonding practices. ...