As a subject matter expert in the field of combustion and fuels, I can provide you with a detailed analysis of the comparison between kerosene and diesel fuel in terms of their burning temperatures.

Kerosene and diesel fuel are both hydrocarbon fuels derived from crude oil, but they are refined differently and have distinct properties that affect their combustion characteristics.

Kerosene is a type of aviation fuel that is also used in some types of heaters and engines that are not designed to run on diesel fuel. It is a relatively light fuel with a lower flash point and a lower energy content compared to diesel. Kerosene has a narrower range of hydrocarbon chain lengths, typically containing between 10 to 16 carbon atoms per molecule. This contributes to its lower energy density; it does not pack as much energy per unit of volume as diesel does.

On the other hand, diesel fuel, also known as petrodiesel or just diesel, is specifically designed for diesel engines. Diesel fuel has a higher flash point and a higher energy content. It is a heavier fuel with a broader range of hydrocarbon chain lengths, usually containing between 10 to 22 carbon atoms per molecule. The higher energy density of diesel means that it can release more energy when combusted, which is why diesel engines are often more efficient than gasoline engines.

When we talk about the temperature at which these fuels burn, it's important to consider the heat of combustion, which is the amount of heat released when a fuel is completely burned in oxygen. The heat of combustion is related to the energy content of the fuel. Diesel fuel, with its higher energy content, has a higher heat of combustion than kerosene. This means that, theoretically, diesel would burn at a hotter temperature than kerosene when all other conditions are equal.

However, the actual burning temperature also depends on other factors such as the efficiency of the combustion process, the design of the engine or heater, and the presence of any impurities or additives in the fuel. In practice, the difference in burning temperature between kerosene and diesel may not be as significant as the difference in their heats of combustion might suggest.

It is also worth noting that the concern about kerosene burning out rings is related to the fact that kerosene has a lower lubricity than diesel. This means that in engines not designed for kerosene, it can cause wear on parts that require lubrication, such as piston rings. This is not directly related to the temperature of combustion but is an important consideration when choosing a fuel for a particular engine.

In conclusion, while kerosene and diesel have different properties that affect their combustion, diesel fuel generally has a higher heat of combustion and would be expected to burn at a hotter temperature than kerosene. However, the actual burning temperature in a specific application can be influenced by many factors, and it is always important to use the correct fuel for the specific engine or heater to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

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Some people will cite kerosene as a hotter-burning fuel than #2 diesel, with subsequent concerns about burning out rings. Others cite the fact that kerosene has less energy value, and so would not burn at a hotter temperature.Sep 28, 2015read more >>