|
Re: Is all gas the same?
Excellent answer from Moppie.
The fuel system in Canada has a couple of extra variables.
All refiners make a 'winter' and a 'summer' grade of fuel. The winter fuel is more volatile and more easily vapourises at lower temps for quicker and easier starts in the winter (but the winter formula would increase evaporate emissions if used in the summer). It usually has a small quantity of ethanol (alcohol) to reduce the effects of water contamination from condensation, like a frozen fuel line. However, fuel may contain up to 10% ethanol anyways. It's sometimes added to reduce emissions.
Most fuel here also gets an additive called MTBE, which is an 'oxygenator' additive to reduce emissions. Its presence is contrivertial since it is a proven carcinogen and is banned in some other markets, like the US.
We have 4 major suppliers in eastern Canada, Petro-Canada, Esso, Shell, and Sunoco (Suncor).
Eastern Canada also has Irving.
There are several smaller independent chains, such as Pioneer and Suny's.
All the fuel seems to be interchangeable in terms of performance and appearance (perhaps their distribution systems are integrated??), except for Shell. It's stuff has a distinctive aroma and seems to ping slightly less than the others.
|