Fibrous Materials in Recovered Fuel Oil (RFO)

In the production of Recovered Fuel Oil (RFO) from used engine oil, it's common to encounter fibrous materials that resemble fine, hair-like strands (often described as "cat's hair"). These fibers typically originate from the degradation of oil filter media in vehicles and machinery, where materials like cellulose, synthetic fibers (e.g., polyester or nylon), or blends break down over time due to heat, pressure, and extended use, releasing into the oil.

At our processing facility, we employ rigorous settling, testing, and filtration steps—including coarse screens during collection and finer 400-micron filters during loading—to remove the majority of these fibers and other contaminants. This ensures our RFO meets high-quality standards for use as burner fuel in asphalt aggregate plants producing hot mix.

However, due to the nature of recycled oil, a small amount of these fibers may occasionally pass through and reach our customers. To minimize potential issues such as plugged filters or burners, which can lead to costly downtime, we recommend implementing proper on-site filtration methods. This includes using compatible strainers or filters in your fuel systems and regular maintenance to handle any residual particulates effectively. By taking these precautions, you can maintain efficient operations and reliable fuel performance.