What is HVO Fuel? Production, Uses, Benefits, and More

What Is Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) Fuel?

Due to a massive change in climate, obsolete technologies, and localised emission control, road transport and non-road mobile machinery are struggling with various challenges. So, businesses in the UK are legally bound to reduce their environmental footprint. There is never been a better time to switch to a greener and cleaner future fuel. This is where HVO comes in as your planet’s saviour. 

HVO fuel, also referred to as Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil, serves as the best replacement for mineral diesel fuel for being fossil-free paraffinic diesel. It comprises certified waste materials, which help lessen CO2 emissions and provide a circular economy. Moreover, hydrogenated vegetable oil helps businesses make their fleets sustainable and friendly to the environment. It has been predominantly used in multiple industries for its multiple logistical and environmental advantages.

In this blog, we’ll explain HVO fuel in detail, answer all your queries and concerns, and let you take a step forward with this future fuel.

How is Hydrotreated Oil Produced?

The process through which hydrotreated vegetable oil is produced is called hydrotreatment. During this process, renewable resources are utilised to derive fats or oils. Subsequently, it is treated with hydrogen and a catalyst to speed up the chemical reaction, resulting in premium, low-emission hydrogenated vegetable oil fuel.

Is There a Difference between HVO and GTL?

When it comes to chemical or physical composition, HVO fuel shares similarities with gas-to-liquid fuels and adheres to the legal standard of the EN 15940 fuel specification. However, HVO comes with a minor life cycle of carbon emission compared to GTL fuels due to their production resources. HVO is generated through renewable feedstocks, and GTL fuels are extracted from natural gas.

Advantages of Using HVO Fuel

Reduced Environmental Impact

HVO fuel decreases greenhouse gas emissions compared to conventional diesel, making it an ecological choice that combats climate change.

High Quality & Performance

This fuel’s high cetane number offers enhanced combustion efficiency and a more smoothly running engine. It also helps provide superior cold-weather performance and does not have similar stability problems.  

Versatility and Compatibility

HVO can be used in diesel engines without advancement. Its plug-and-play feature helps fleets in reducing their carbon footprint.

Low Emission of Pollutants

HVO fuel positively impacts the environment by providing a cleaner burn and significantly reducing emissions of particular matter, NOx, and other air quality pollutants.

Renewable and Sustainable

This fuel promotes the lesser use of fossil fuels because it is made from renewable resources. Because it is produced from waste and residue streams, HVO contributes to a circular economy.

Reduced Maintenance Needs

HVO has cleaner combustion that helps lessen engine deterioration and theoretically drops upkeep costs.

Applications of HVO Renewable Diesel

Because of its popularity in various industries, most firms use HVO as a crucial component of their sustainability approach. These industries are:

Transportation

Most transport firms use HVO in trucks and buses, which helps to enhance efficiency and results in a reduced carbon footprint.

Construction

Construction organisations incorporated HVO in their heavyweight machines, dropping emissions and boosting ecological performance on job sites.

Agriculture

Most farmers use HVO renewable diesel in their tractors and other tools. This reduces emissions and benefits them by supporting sustainable farming practices.

Commercial Boilers

This fuel is utilised in commercial boilers to help decrease the building’s CO2 emissions.

Inland Waterways

Inland waterways use HVO fuel in boats and ships, which helps to manage waterways, decrease emissions, and support eco-friendly transport practices.

Comparing HVO to Other Fuels

Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) is produced through hydrotreating, which contains hydrogenating and hydrocracking vegetable oils and animal fats. Multiple things help to distinguish HVO from other fuels:

• Emissions: Reduces emissions of harmful substances. 
• Chemical composition: Provides improved starting performance, spotless combustion, and no waxing worries in extreme cold. 
• Density: Lower fuel density than diesel.
• Blending: Mixed with diesel in the desired ratio.
• Calorific value: Similar calorific values to conventional diesel. 

Why Switching to HVO Renewable Diesel is a Worthwhile Decision?

Switching to HVO renewable diesel is a prevalent trend due to various reasons, including:

Eco-Friendly Diesel

Animal fats and vegetable oils are the source of HVO, rendering it a more eco-conscious fuel choice than fossil-based diesel. It is RFAS-accredited for its reduced greenhouse gas emissions.

• Enhanced air quality
• Reduced Nox, particulate matter, and unburnt hydrocarbons
• Accessible through ISCC-certified suppliers.
• Practically aromatics and sulphur-free.
• Fragrance-free

Outstanding Performance

• Comes with a high cetane number
• Offers effective combustion
• Improved throttle response and start-up
• Unmatched storage capabilities
• Prevents microbial growth
• Reduces water effects
• Free from fame

Switching Made Simple

• Noticeable replacement for gas oil or diesel.
• Approved by various OEMs as an alternative.
• Doesn’t require modifications.