No Drop in the Pool
Page 26
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SOME commercial-vehicle operators have expressed doubts regarding the quality of the new " red " petrol. We have been assured that careful tests have proved that the mileage obtained with it is notably less than was the case with ordinary supplies received previously. A trial carried out by a concern with accurate metering devices showed a reduction of 16 per cent. in the mileage given by red fuel as compared with that obtained with the. non-coloured variety. Two runs over a measured distance were made with each fuel. In confirmation of this one operator using a number of vehicles complained of a reduction from 8 m.p.g. to 7 m.p.g.
This evidence appealed to us as being particularly interesting, and worthy of further investigation, which has resulted in what seems to us to be a reasonable explanation.
We have been assured that there has been no change in respect of the constituents of Pool petrol, with the exception that fairly late in the production process the red aniline die and chemical " traps " are added. These, however, have been chosen most carefully so as not to affect performance in any way, and every endeavour is made with all Pool petrol to avoid the octane rating falling below 70.
An important factor, however, is that the quality, which may affect m.p.g., may vary from time to time in different parts of the country. The reason for this is that benzoic is often blended in with the petrol, possibly in fairly large quantities. This is effected regionally, and such blended supplies may last for considerable periods in some areas.
It is well known that benzoic is an excellent fuel and anti-detonant, so that the temporary-fortunate users experience better running with their vehicles and higher mileage per gallon. They could possibly even reduce jet sizes in carburetters during this period. Suddenly, however, there may be a reversion to ordinary Pool spirit, and soon complaints may be received from driver that the engines of their vehicles are not running as smoothly as before and that earlier gear changing is required on hills, whilst carefully compiled records may indicate reductions in mileage per gallon.
It is therefore impossible to rely upon comparative tests of the latest and earlier deliveries, unless the full circumstances be known. Drivers who have to purchase petrol in areas far apart have for long realized that the standard of quality may vary considerably. This is, perhaps, more apparent in the case of cars, the engines of which often have a higher compression ratio than is normal with the power. units of commercial vehicles, although it may take an expert to recognize any serious difference, particularly as the grades may, at least for a time, be mixed in the tank.
It seems that we must not look upon Pool petrol as deteriorating, but take the view that sometimes it may be better than what may be termed the standard.