Sub-Octane

In the context of energy commodities, particularly petroleum products, “sub-octane” refers to gasoline or other fuels that have an octane rating below the standard level required for a regular grade fuel at a specific market or by a specific vehicle. Octane rating is a measure of a fuel’s ability to resist engine knocking or pinging during combustion, caused by the air/fuel mixture detonating prematurely in the engine. In the United States, regular grade gasoline typically has an octane rating of 87. Therefore, any gasoline with an octane rating lower than this can be considered sub-octane for the U.S. market.

Octane ratings can vary in different countries, so what is considered sub-octane in one country might be acceptable in another. Sub-octane fuels are generally not recommended for use in most modern engines as they can lead to reduced engine performance and can potentially cause damage over time. The use of sub-octane fuel when a higher octane fuel is required can void vehicle warranties.

For more information about sub-octane and octane ratings in general, you can visit the following websites:

1. US Department of Energy – Alternative Fuels Data Center
The Alternative Fuels Data Center (AFDC) provides a wide array of information on alternative and renewable fuels, advanced vehicles, fuel economy, and related topics. They offer information about octane ratings and how they affect vehicle performance.
URL: https://afdc.energy.gov/fuels/

2. American Automobile Association (AAA) – Gas Prices FAQs
AAA is a federation of motor clubs throughout North America. Their website offers a helpful FAQ section that addresses common questions about gasoline, including octane levels. While it might not specifically list ‘sub-octane,’ it provides context that helps in understanding fuel ratings.
URL: https://gasprices.aaa.com/faq/

Please ensure that you verify the information on these websites to ensure they meet your needs, as content can change, and websites undergo updates.