Proper Storage of Diesel Fuel
Posted on: 9 July 2018
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Diesel fuel plays an important role in the transportation and manufacturing industries. This fuel powers a number of machines, from semi trucks to municipal generators. Because the demand for diesel fuel is high, opening a diesel depot can be a profitable way to generate income.
You will need to be able to store large quantities of fuel when you open a diesel depot. Proper storage practices will help you avoid problems with the quality of your fuel and protect the surrounding environment from dangerous leaks.
Use the right storage tank.
Selecting the proper storage tank is the first step in the successful storage of diesel fuel. You will need a large tank capable of holding enough diesel fuel to meet the needs of your clients. The tank should be constructed of a corrosion-resistant metal (like aluminum) or a specially formulated polyurethane plastic.
Most diesel depots bury storage tanks beneath the ground in order to protect them from moisture damage or contamination. Be sure that you bury your storage tank in an area where vehicles will not drive over it regularly. The weight of large trucks and cars can crush a storage tank, leading to the formation of leaks.
Monitor storage conditions.
Diesel fuel is a relatively stable liquid that can be stored for an extended period of time. You should calculate your anticipated usage, and keep your fuel storage limited to the amount of diesel you will use in a year. This is how long diesel fuel can remain stable when left untreated.
Keeping fuel longer than a year could result in a gummy texture that will clog fuel filters and contribute to serious engine damage. If you are worried about the effects of long-term storage on the quality of your diesel fuel, consider using an additive to help stabilize the fuel and prevent living organisms from infiltrating your stored supply.
Control water within the storage tank.
Water is your enemy when it comes to storing diesel fuel. Moisture that condenses on the interior surfaces of your tank can drip down onto the fuel within and accumulate over time. This accumulated moisture creates the perfect environment for bacteria that might cause fuel degradation to breed.
Be sure that you implement a drainage plan to remove excess moisture from your storage tank on a regular basis. It can also be beneficial to use biocide additives that are designed to kill off harmful bacteria. For more information, you may want to speak with other diesel depots like United Oil.