FCC was developed over twenty years ago to overcome three major problems that were being experienced in hydrocarbon fuels. Specifically these were:
Condensation
The air space above the fuel in tanks contains water vapour. The walls of the tanks are cool and the water vapour condenses on these surfaces. This water subsequently accumulates and sinks to the bottom of the tank creating an ideal environment for the growth of the fungus “Hormoconis resinae” this fungus can “spoil” the fuel and cause loss of power and filter blocking, eventually leading to engine breakdown. Condensation will occur at the refinery, the fuel depots, service stations, company tanks and in vehicles.
The Sulphur in Fuel
Causes the build up of waxes, resins and gums on injector pintles and combustion chambers. This impairs efficiency and is one of the major causes of pollution because of an unclean burn. In addition some sulphuric acid formed in the combustion process will leach into the oil sump and cause problems with the oil, not the least of which is severe corrosion. Sulphur content also provides vital trace elements for the growth of fungi.