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| Dr. Ir. Yepy Komaril Sofi'i, ST., MT, a lecturer in Mechanical Engineering at the Faculty of Engineering, Muhammadiyah Malang University (UMM) (Photo: Special) |
The government is actively conveying the release of low-sulfur fuel. Although it may still sound unfamiliar, Dr. Ir. Yepy Komaril Sofi'i, ST., MT, a lecturer in Mechanical Engineering at Muhammadiyah Malang University (UMM), states that this plan will bring many benefits in the future, particularly for diesel engine vehicles.
"Technically, within the diesel engine, there is a component called the Nozzle Injector. Excessive sulfur content in the fuel can cause the nozzles to become clogged. This blockage hampers the fuel supply flow being injected," he added.
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Further, Yepy explained that sulfur is often found in fuels. Pertamina Indonesia has been striving to provide low-sulfur fuel that meets the maximum sulfur content requirements set by Euro IV, which is no more than 50 ppm. Examples include Pertamax Hijau 95 with an octane number (RON) of 95, Pertamax Turbo RON 98, and Pertadex with a cetane number of 53. Other fuel products still have relatively high sulfur content.
He also outlined several advantages of low-sulfur fuel. Firstly, from a mechanical engineering perspective, it contributes to longer engine lifetime or durability. Additionally, a reduction in sulfur leads to lower emissions, as sulfur contributes to the production of sulfur dioxide (SO2) during combustion, which in turn affects the increase in gas emissions. Thus, low-sulfur fuel has a more positive impact both on diesel engines and the environment.
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"Imperfect combustion, including in combustion engines and industrial processes, generates carbon monoxide (CO), water vapor, and other compounds. Sulfur produces sulfur dioxide (SO2), which increases gas emissions. Therefore, low-sulfur fuel will have a more beneficial effect on both diesel engines and the environment," he emphasized.
Yepy supports the government’s plan to provide low-sulfur fuel. However, he cautions that the government’s efforts should be carried out comprehensively, particularly in terms of infrastructure such as gas stations (SPBUs) that are uniformly supplied with low-sulfur fuel.
"Low-sulfur SPBUs should not be limited to major cities but should be distributed throughout Indonesia. This includes ensuring that the automotive industry provides vehicles compatible with low-sulfur fuel. This alignment between policy and practical implementation is crucial," he concluded. (Dit/Faq/Fajr)
