HVO (Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil) differs from traditional mineral diesel and biodiesel blends (FAME – Fatty Acid Methyl Esters) in both production process and performance characteristics.
Key differences between HVO, mineral diesel, and biodiesel blends include:
- Stability & Shelf Life – HVO is more stable and has a much longer shelf life compared to FAME-based biodiesel, which can degrade over time and absorb moisture.
- Performance – HVO offers superior cold-weather performance, cleaner combustion, and reduced engine deposits, contributing to lower maintenance and longer engine life.
- Compatibility – Unlike FAME, HVO is a drop-in fuel and can be used at 100% concentration or blended with diesel in any ratio without requiring modifications to engines or infrastructure.
- Sustainability – HVO is made from renewable, sustainable feedstocks, such as waste oils and residues, and can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 90% compared to conventional diesel.
In summary, HVO combines the reliability of traditional diesel with the environmental benefits of renewable fuel, while avoiding the storage and performance issues often associated with biodiesel blends.