As the name suggests, works to counteract the gelling of diesel fuel. Typically speaking, there are two kinds of anti-gel, Preventative and Post CFPP. Post CFPP Anti-gels are used after gelling or plugging has already occurred. They are often alcohol or kerosene based to burn through the waxes and restore fuel flow. Although use of these chemicals is sometimes necessary, such as when gelling and plugging has already occurred, alcohol and kerosene based additives are usually avoided. The speed by which alcohol or kerosene can liquefy wax buildup is useful but the lack of lubricity, and the caustic effect these chemicals have on rubber seals and hoses, is why they are typically avoided. Preventative Anti-gels are used before gelling occurs. To ensure a Preventative anti-gel works properly there is an important rule to keep in mind. Diesel Fuel can not be at or below the cloud point when Preventative anti-gel is added.

There are two reasons for this: (1) If the fuel is cold and wax has begun to crystalize and link, the cold flow additive will not be able to modify the crystals as designed to minimize their growth or alter their morphology and (2) cold fuel has poor solubility, meaning proper mixing can not occur. The easiest way to ensure your preventative additive is properly mixed and your diesel is not too cold during winter months is to add it at the pump while fueling. Once mixed properly the preventive anti-gel will not only do its job but will not ‘fall out’ of solution or separate.

Opti-Lube XPD and Winter contain components that interact with the wax molecules in a way that prevents them from stacking and subsequently forming large, filter plugging crystals. As the temperatures drop this season, ask yourself: Am I ready for winter?