What the standard covers
EN590 specifies the properties automotive diesel must meet, including sulphur content, cetane number, density, flash point, and cold-weather behaviour. It is maintained as a European standard and is widely referenced in diesel contracts well beyond Europe.
Key indicative properties
| Sulphur (max) | 10 mg/kg (10 ppm), ultra-low-sulphur |
|---|---|
| Cetane number (min) | typically 51 |
| Density at 15 degrees C | typically ~820 to 845 kg/m3 |
| Flash point (min) | typically above 55 degrees C |
Indicative values reflecting common requirements. Exact limits, including seasonal cold-flow grades, follow the current standard and the contract specification.
Why the 10ppm limit
The 10ppm sulphur ceiling lets modern engines use exhaust after-treatment such as particulate filters and catalysts, and it cuts sulphur emissions. Low-sulphur diesel is a direct consequence of the fuel sulphur limits described in sulphur content.
Seasonal and regional grades
EN590 defines several cold-flow grades so diesel performs in different climates, controlling properties such as the cloud point and cold-filter-plugging point. Buyers specify the grade that matches the destination climate and season, which the contract records alongside sulphur and cetane.
Sources & references
This article paraphrases widely established facts from the organisations below. It does not reproduce their text. Always confirm current figures against the primary source.
- EN 590 — European standard for automotive diesel fuel (CEN)