Today fuel oil is probably the most popular and widely applied petrochemical product. Oil processing involves oil refining and in this process a half of oil volume consists of light fractions, and the second half is fuel oil. During refining various kerosene cuts, gas oils and naphta are extracted. And the original composition of oil specifically affects fuel oil properties, both physical and chemical.
Fuel oil is generally characterized by good density, viscosity and heat of combustion. The original composition of oil also influences the percentage composition of sulfur and even ash in the fuel oil. If consider the chemistry of fuel oil: its composition is rich for various elements as it contains metal, hydrocarbons, and even petroleum resins. Manganese, nickel, and iron are basically found in the composition, but it may be also supplemented with other elements.
If to look at fuel oil, it is a rather liquid substance of dark-brown or black color with characteristic smell. If to expose this fuel oil to vacuum distillation of high intensity, the same fuel oil will be produced as a result, but its texture will be more thick and viscous. The viscosity of fuel oil may be determined only at distillation temperature of 50 ˚C. After this temperature the viscosity will be displayed in figures and the product grade may be determined according to these values. A lot of grades are distinguished, and they are designated either as F 5 or M 40, but the most popular grade is fuel oil M 100. It is widely used as the fuel oil of this grade is considered as the heaviest fuel type. This fuel oil grade is characterized by a low content of ash and sulfur. Herewith, it freezes at relatively high temperature as the viscosity level is rather high.
Fuel oil M 100 is applied the year around as distinguished from other grades. It is used as fuel for various devices. It is perfect for steam boilers, boiler plants, and even for industrial furnaces.