Meeting called over red diesel damage concerns

Fuel: Farm leaders to meet processor following reports of machinery issues

Farm leaders have called a meeting with fuel processing giant Petroineos over growing concerns red diesel from its Grangemouth refinery is causing damage to farm machinery.

Farming union NFU Scotland (NFUS) and machinery ring Ringlink Scotland say the meeting, due to take place later this month, has been organised as a result of widespread issues with farm machinery believed to be caused by a problem with fuel.

“Reported issues include poor performance, blocked filters, low working hours before filter changes are required and injector failure,” said NFUS and Ringlink in an update to members.

“Due to the number of vehicles now affected, some areas are experiencing filter shortages and a lack of workshop availability for required repairs.”

The organisations said farmers had speculated the problems were being caused by abnormally high levels of biodiesel in the fuel. However, independent tests of three samples found biodiesel levels to be within prescribed limits as set out in legislation.

“There are no apparent patterns with regards to make, model, or type of machinery affected,” said the organisations.

“There are also no links with specific end suppliers, although geographically the issue is being seen from central Scotland down to the Borders.”

Affected farmers are asked to consult their fuel supplier for individual advice.

In instances where the addition of a fuel additive is suggested, farmers are advised to check the additive is compatible with their machinery before using it.

Other advice includes cleaning fuel storage tanks, where possible, before each fill and fitting storage tanks and fuel delivery systems with filters to prevent contamination between tank and machinery.

A Petroineos spokesman last night said it had been made aware of problems encountered with agricultural and industrial equipment.

He said: “We have received dozens of samples back from customers for analysis and every one has met the required standard. We are confident in our systems, processes and product sold to market.

“We continue to engage with our customers and will be meeting with key stakeholders later this month.”

FUELLING CONCERNS: Farm leaders are meeting with Petroineos after reports of red diesel from Grangemouth damaging farm machinery