British rail freight operator GB Railfreight (GBRf) has begun a new programme of fuel additive trials. The initiative is in partnership with Fuelcare, a specialist in industrial fuel biocides and additives. The trial has been set up by the specialist management agency, Treyarnon Consulting.
Fuel additives generally mean adulterating diesel with additional chemicals. This trial will assess whether Fuelcare’s additive can enhance diesel engine performance. The partners also want to measure any reduced emissions and extend the distances GBRf locomotives can travel between refuelling.
Committing biocide to protect engines
Fuelcare is a UK-based specialist in fuel quality management, industrial additives, and biocides, serving sectors from rail and marine to aviation and offshore energy. The Shrewsbury-headquartered company provides products and services designed to prevent microbial contamination, maintain fuel integrity, and optimise diesel and hydrocarbon fuel performance. Its expertise includes fuel testing, laboratory analysis, additive injection systems, and cloud-based monitoring solutions, all supporting operational reliability and regulatory compliance.
Biocides are additives that prevent microbial growth in diesel fuel, helping to keep engines and fuel systems clean, reliable, and free from corrosion or filter blockages. The trial using the technique aims to evaluate its effectiveness in an operational environment. Running until 22 March, it is among the largest fuel additive initiatives undertaken by any UK rail freight operator. There is a Europe-wide drive towards cleaner fuels, even though rail freight offers a significantly cleaner way of moving goods, when compared with other diesel-powered options – notably road haulage. Success could improve operational efficiency across GBRf’s fleet and reinforce the company’s commitment to a greener, more sustainable railway.
Perfect partners
It’s no surprise that the Peterborough-based operator should be the partner in such a trial. GB Railfreight (GBRf) continues to take a progressive approach to modern traction, combining operational efficiency with environmental performance.
A key part of this strategy is the significant leasing of a fleet of bi-mode Class 99 locomotives, capable of running on electric or diesel power. This flexibility allows GBRf to reduce emissions, operate across both electrified and non-electrified routes, and support a more sustainable rail freight network while maintaining high levels of reliability and service.