White Petrol: What It Is and Why It’s Not for Your Car

Posted on: Jul 4, 2025 | 3 mins | Written by: HDFC ERGO Team

White Petrol: What It Is and Why It’s Not for Your Car

Introduction

When we talk about fuels for cars, petrol, diesel, and CNG usually come to mind first. However, there's another fuel type that plays a crucial role in specific businesses but stays relatively unknown to the average customer—white petrol. Knowing different fuel types can help you make informed decisions about the vehicles and prevent possible damage.

White Petrol: What Is It and How Does It Affect Your Vehicle?

White petrol, also known as petroleum ether or refined petroleum spirit (RPS), is a highly purified product obtained from the low-boiling-point of petroleum distillation. Unlike normal car fuel, white petrol is clear and colourless and made mainly of flammable hydrocarbons like pentane and hexane.

In terms of chemical makeup, white petrol contains hydrocarbon chains with about 12 to 15 atoms, making it slightly heavier than regular petrol (which has 7 to 11 atoms) and closer to kerosene. This change in makeup gives white petrol unique qualities that make it useful for specific uses.

Why White Petrol is Used in Aviation

White petrol is primarily used in aviation, particularly for small aircraft with piston engines. These engines require a fuel with high octane and low freezing point to operate efficiently at high altitudes. The fuel is specially refined to meet the stringent requirements of aviation engines.

Additionally, white fuel is perfectly polished and free from impurities that might damage constant performance at great altitudes or changing temperatures. Its high energy density and steadiness ensure safety and economy during flying.

Can You Use White Petrol in Your Vehicle?

No, using white fuel in standard cars can lead to major engine damage. Here's why:

• White petrol lacks the necessary oils needed for car engines

• It has a higher energy yield than normal petrol

• It doesn't vanish fast enough for spark-ignition engines

• Using it could cause fire risks

Conclusion

While white petrol plays a vital role in aviation and various industries, it's important to understand that it's not interchangeable with the fuel we use in our everyday cars. Using the wrong fuel type can lead to major engine damage and possibly dangerous situations.

Speaking of vehicle safety, regardless of whether you own a petrol or diesel vehicle, a complete car insurance policy is required by law and crucial for your financial security. A good car insurance policy protects you against unforeseen crashes and fixes, helping you avoid hefty expenses.

Disclaimer: The above information is for illustrative purposes only. For more details, please refer to the policy wordings and prospectus before concluding the sales.

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