Octane number is an important factor to consider while buying fuel for your car or two-wheeler vehicle. The octane number of a fuel determines the efficiency with which the fuel combusts in the engine. Getting the fuel with the appropriate octane number helps to ensure optimum vehicle performance. It also boosts overall engine health and fuel economy. Read along to know what is octane number, along with the types of octane numbers, and the cars suitable for octane fuel.
What is octane number?
The octane number or octane rating of a fuel determines the fuel’s ability to remain stable and resist knocking during combustion. Premature ignition of the fuel causes knocking. This happens when the fuel-air mixture in the internal combustion engine cylinder ignites prematurely due to the high compression or heat within the cylinder. This can cause poor engine performance, noise, vibrations and possibly engine damage.
A fuel with a higher octane number ensures more resistance to knocking, smoother combustion and superior engine efficiency.
Types of octane numbers
With the octane number explained, let’s see its uses. The petroleum industry uses multiple octane numbers to determine the anti-knocking properties of fuel. The octane number system includes the research octane number, the motor octane number and the anti-knock index.
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Research octane number (RON)
The research octane number or RON is the volume percentage of iso-octane in a mix of iso-octane and n-heptane that produces knocks with some intensity during the testing of the fuel. The RON is measured under controlled conditions using low-speed and light-load engine settings. It shows how the fuel works in everyday driving conditions. RON is typically used for standard road vehicles. Many fuel pumps in Asia and Europe display the RON value. Regular gasoline usually has a RON value of 91–95, while premium quality fuel has 98-100+ RON.
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Motor octane number (MON)
The motor octane number or MON defines fuel behaviour at high speeds and temperatures. This is a full-throttle range, which is like driving fast on a highway. Since MON is tested under highly strenuous conditions and higher engine loads, it is a more realistic fuel performance indicator for critical driving situations. MON values are typically lower than the RON, often by 7-10 points. The MON is not specified at service stations and, therefore, not known to the general public.
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Anti-knock index (AKI)
The Anti-Knock Index (AKI) is calculated by measuring the average of RON and MON. So, if the RON is 92 and the MON is 82, then the AKI will be 87. The AKI is used in North America, where a fuel having 87 AKI is defined as regular gasoline. A mid-range fuel typically measures around 89 to 90 AKI, and premium quality fuel is around 91 to 94 AKI.
What are the cars suitable for octane fuel?
A common misconception is that investing in high-octane fuels is always a good idea. The truth is high-octane fuels are suitable only for specific types of vehicles. If your vehicle does not fall into that category, there is no need to spend more, as you won’t see any noticeable difference. You can have optimal performance in your vehicle by using the correct fuel type according to the manufacturer’s recommendation.
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Regular cars
Most family cars and economy vehicles run smoothly on 91 RON or lower octane fuel. This is because their engines do not use high compression.
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High-performance and turbocharged cars
Luxury cars, sports vehicles, and high-performance vehicles usually require 98+ RON fuel to match their high-compression engines. Turbocharged and supercharged engines require precise combustion timing, which makes premium fuel essential to avoid knocking and ensure peak performance. Some vehicles in this range include Mercedes-Benz and BMW M Series vehicles.
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Motorcycles and small performance vehicles
Certain motorcycles, especially sports bikes, need high-octane fuel due to their compact, high-revving engines.
Conclusion
By understanding the concept of octane numbers, you can easily decide on the best fuel for your vehicle and benefit from its optimal performance and engine longevity. Make sure you consider the vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations while buying fuel products.
Besides choosing the right octane fuel, getting car insurance is the best way to protect your vehicle’s engine from unforeseen damages and critical issues. Car accidents and damages often lead to hefty repair charges, and a comprehensive car insurance policy can protect you from such expenses. By consulting with an insurance services provider, you can get a third party car insurance coverage that’s perfect for your vehicle.
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