Does high-octane fuel offer more than knock resist...

Not solely do higher-octane fuels higher battle off preignition–that means you’ll be able to run extra compression, extra increase and extra ignition advance–however they’re additionally extra steady in relation to storage.

There’s science behind that reply, and we’re going to crib from one thing posted on the Sunoco Race Fuels website by Zachary J. Santner, supervisor of Product Engineering and Enterprise Optimization at Sunoco Performance Products: “87-octane fuels are usually much less refined and include extra unstable hydrocarbons. Because the months cross throughout storage, these unstable parts react to kind gums, varnishes and lower-octane hydrocarbons.

“Because of this, the octane can lower inside months for 87-octane fuels, particularly when saved below less-than-ideal circumstances. 93-octane fuels are extra refined and include extra steady hydrocarbons.

“These steady hydrocarbons can final two to a few occasions longer than 87-octane gas. Even with correct storage, 87-octane gasoline can begin to degrade in 3 months; 93-octane gas ought to final nearer to 9 months earlier than degradation is noticeable. Remember that 93-octane fuels are nonetheless inclined to octane loss and vapor stress decreases resulting from butane evaporation.”

So, apart from value, is there a draw back to all the time filling up with premium? “Filling up with premium once you don’t want it may possibly assist to wash the gas system as a result of it comprises cleaner parts than 87 octane,” Santner tells us. “No causes to not use it, even in an 87-octane-minimum automobile.”

Race fuels, although, are a barely totally different topic. The place road fuels are blended to fulfill a worth level, race fuels function higher substances–and people substances result in longer shelf life. If correctly saved, Santner provides, Sunoco’s race fuels can sit round for 2 years or extra with out degrading.

Feedback

View all comments on the GRM forums

You will have to log in to publish.