Recently, a netizen took to Twitter to share her experience with different petrol brands, claiming that when she fills up RM50 worth of petrol at Petron, she observed that she can get up to 14 liters however when she fills up petrol at Petronas, she only gets around 12-13 liters. So after using a few different brands, she shared that when she uses Shell, her fuel seems to last longer.
Ingat aku sorang je rasa macam tu
— Ika (@SitiZulaikhaMR) July 27, 2023
Aku isi Petron RM50 boleh sampai 14L. Kalau Petronas, aku isi, dapat 12-13L, kejap je habis pic.twitter.com/PeROPbuv26
Her tweet quickly garnered attention, sparking a conversation among fellow users about the varying fuel volumes of different petrol brands.
Amidst the online discussion, @AidFawzal, a Fluid Dynamics & Heat Transfer Expert who has a PhD in Automotive & Motorsports Cooling System for Hybridisation/Electrification decided to weigh in with his professional opinion on the subject. As an expert in the field, he provided some valuable insights to clarify the misconceptions and explain the science behind the perceived differences.
Betul ke isi minyak Petronas dapat sikit & cepat habis?? Isi minyak jenama lain dapat banyak pulak??
— Aid Fawzal (@AidFawzal) July 29, 2023
Jom kita bongkar... https://t.co/5P1tCpTErG
Different Brands, Different Volumes?
According to the expert, this is a huge NO!
In his response, the expert acknowledged that while some netizens' experiences might be genuine, the differences in fuel volumes are not solely due to the petrol brands themselves. He pointed out that each petrol pump undergoes a calibration process, which should ensure that the volume dispensed is accurate and in compliance with standard measurements. So while there is a difference in the volume, it is only by a few litres like 0.23+-.
The expert emphasized that variations in fuel volume are more likely attributed to factors such as temperature and pressure changes within the fuel storage tanks and the surrounding environment. These changes can lead to slight discrepancies in the amount of fuel dispensed, but they are generally within an acceptable margin of error.
So, why can petrol from Brand A last longer than Brand B?
He explained that fuel isn't just a simple blend of hydrocarbons; it also contains carefully formulated additives that enhance engine performance and cleanliness.
These additives can include:
Detergents: For engine cleaning and maintenance.
Antiknock Agents: To prevent uncontrolled engine knocking.
Corrosion Inhibitors: To protect engine surfaces from rust and corrosion.
Vaporization Enhancers: To facilitate the smooth transition of liquid fuel to gas.
and more.
Different petrol manufacturers prioritize certain additives based on their target market and vehicle requirements. Some may focus more on engine cleaning, while others prioritize combustion efficiency. So the performance of the fuel depends on the additives added.
In conclusion, the online exchange highlighted the importance of understanding the complexities of fuel dynamics and the science behind additives in petrol. While individual experiences may vary, informed decision-making is essential when choosing a petrol brand that best suits one's driving needs and preferences. As netizens continue to discuss the topic, the expert's insights add a valuable perspective to the ongoing conversation about fuel efficiency and its relation to different petrol brands.
