Fuel storage equipment | News Fuel Proof news

With every 13,500 litre bulk diesel tank ordered in August we are supplying a full tanks supply of our new anti-bacterial fuel additive free of charge. In addition we are fitting a tank dosing pump for dispensing the additive into the tank prior to filling the tank with fuel - for no extra cost.

Water in fuel is a common breeding ground for bacteria, the additive tackles this problem in two ways:

1. Emulsifies water to prevent any build up of water in the fuel.
2. Antibacterial action kills bacteria ensuring your fuel is clean and fit for use.

For more information on the new fuel additive or to find out more about our range of bulk diesel tanks, please call us on 01524 850685.

Since the start of the year Fuel Proof Ltd has had a huge influx of calls from customers with concerns about the changing fuel specifications, and fuel security. To try and help bring some clarity to what is currently happening we have compiled this brief article.

Although this is not exhaustive and only touches the tip of this huge topic, we hope that it will help.

The shelf life of this new fuel is also considerably less as it is more prone to oxidation, which as before, may lead to filter blockages. Fuel stocks should be turned over ideally no longer than 6 months. Find out when your fuel supplier changes from ‘summer’ to ‘winter’ grade fuel (usually at the end of October) and make sure you don’t end up with a tank full of ‘summer’ grade for the winter, as this will ‘wax’ as temperatures drop. Avoid positioning tanks in exposed areas if possible, and make sure pipework and pumps are sheltered to reduce heat loss and waxing. Remember that an old partially blocked filter will be less tolerant to small amounts of wax crystals. A large, high capacity fuel filter fitted to your fuel delivery/storage system will mean fewer problems will occur further down the line, so consider fitting one or upgrading.

Bio-diesels can contain up to 25 times more water than petroleum diesel, and is a perfect habitat for microbial growth. The bacteria feed on the fuel – breaking down the carbon chains which reduces the combustible properties. This can lead to:

By employing good housekeeping and ensuring suitable filtration, the above risks will be minimized.

Storage tanks which have large amounts of ‘dormant’ fuel due to their shape or design, are more prone to bacterial growth. This should be taken into consideration when upgrading your fuel storage equipment.

Fuel security
In most cases the cost of filling a diesel tank will be significantly more than the cost of the equipment itself, which highlights the importance of making tank security a top priority. A strong, double skinned tank constructed from steel throughout, with dispensing equipment and inlets and outlets kept secure, is essential for above-ground installations. Plastic tanks, although a cheap alternative to steel tanks, do not provide adequate security and can be easily breached by fuel thieves. Steel tanks also tend to last longer and hold on to their value better than plastic tanks, giving the user peace of mind on their investment.

In addition to this, by following common sense practices such as ensuring tanks are positioned in well lit areas, making sure electric pumps are isolated where possible and using protected fill points and breathers, companies can significantly improve their fuel security for relatively low costs.

By looking closely at your own fuel storage arrangements and planning ahead, you can ensure your fleet stays on the move around the clock and also gain an advantage on your competitors – and the really good news in many cases is that you can do most of this for practically no cost at all!