Sylvie Willis
Ethanol is a fuel additive that has been used in gasoline since the mid-2000s. It is known to cause issues with older fiberglass fuel tanks, leading to concerns about its impact on recreational vessels and boats with these tanks. The ethanol dissolves the resin in the tanks, causing leaks and potential engine damage. This has sparked debates within the boating community and led to lawsuits against oil companies. While modern fiberglass tanks are compatible with ethanol storage, older tanks, particularly those manufactured before the 1980s, are at risk of failure due to the additive's corrosive effects.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Date of concern | 2004 |
| Reason for change | MTBE (methyl tertiary-butyl ether) was found to contaminate groundwater supplies |
| Replacement | Ethanol |
| Affected tanks | Older fiberglass tanks, especially those manufactured before the mid-1980s |
| Effect of ethanol | Dissolves resin in older fiberglass tanks, leading to clogged valves and potential engine damage |
| Solution | Replace old fiberglass tanks with modern equivalents |
| Alternative solutions | Use diesel fuel systems, which are not affected by ethanol |
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What You'll Learn
- Ethanol is a solvent that can dissolve resin in older fiberglass tanks
- The dissolved resin can cause engine damage
- The problem is limited to tanks manufactured before the mid-1980s
- The use of ethanol in gasoline is due to environmental concerns
- Modern fiberglass tanks are compatible with ethanol storage
Ethanol is a solvent that can dissolve resin in older fiberglass tanks
The issue of ethanol weakening or dissolving fiberglass fuel tanks has been observed in the boating community, particularly in recreational vessels. It has been noted that reformulations of gasoline that replaced MTBE (methyl tertiary-butyl ether) with ethanol are causing the additive to "attack" the resin in old fiberglass tanks. This results in weakened tank walls and bottoms, which can lead to leaks and a risk of explosion.
The problem appears to be limited to tanks manufactured before the mid-1980s, as industry-wide changes in fiberglass resin formulations took place during this period. Modern fiberglass fuel tanks are typically compatible with ethanol and gasoline storage and are not susceptible to internal corrosion.
It is recommended that boats built before 1984 have their fiberglass fuel tanks replaced with modern equivalents before using ethanol to avoid potential engine damage and safety hazards.
While ethanol can be problematic for older fiberglass fuel tanks, it is important to note that it offers advantages in terms of fuel compatibility and corrosion resistance when used with modern tanks.
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The dissolved resin can cause engine damage
The use of ethanol-blended fuels in fibreglass fuel storage tanks has been a topic of concern for boat owners. The issue primarily affects older fibreglass tanks, particularly those manufactured before the mid-1980s, when industry-wide changes in fibreglass resin formulations took place.
The problem arises because ethanol slowly dissolves the resin in these older tanks. The dissolved resin can then deposit itself on intake valves, causing them to stick and subsequently leading to engine damage. This can result in clogged fuel injectors, gummed-up valves, and, in more severe cases, fuel leaks.
The accumulation of water in the fuel system can further exacerbate the issue. Ethanol has an affinity for water, and when it absorbs a certain percentage, the ethanol-water combination sinks to the bottom of the tank. This can result in stalling and difficult starts, as well as reduced motor fuel BTU content and octane rating.
The impact of ethanol on fibreglass fuel tanks has led to several reports of engine damage and fuel leaks, with boating advocacy groups highlighting that the issue has not been widely appreciated. However, it is important to note that modern fibreglass fuel tanks, which have undergone UL testing and listing, are compatible with ethanol and gasoline storage and are not affected by this issue.
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The problem is limited to tanks manufactured before the mid-1980s
The problem of ethanol causing fiberglass fuel storage tanks to fail is indeed limited to tanks manufactured before the mid-1980s. This issue predominantly affects the boating community, with recreational vessels facing problems due to the use of ethanol-blended fuels.
Ethanol has been found to slowly dissolve the resin in older fiberglass tanks, leading to deposits on intake valves and subsequent engine damage. This issue is not limited to boats, however, as fuel dispensing equipment, including "O" rings and submerged metals, may also be vulnerable to changes in fuel formulations.
The debate over replacing MTBE (methyl tertiary-butyl ether) with ethanol in gasoline did not initially raise concerns in the boating community. MTBE was phased out due to environmental concerns, as it had contaminated groundwater supplies in several states. However, ethanol has been found to “attack” the resin in old fiberglass tanks, weakening the tank walls and bottoms, leading to potential leaks and explosion hazards.
Boat owners are advised to replace fiberglass fuel tanks in boats manufactured before the mid-1980s with modern equivalents to avoid tank failure and engine damage. Modern fiberglass tanks, on the other hand, are UL-tested and UL-listed, making them compatible with ethanol and gasoline storage. Additionally, modern tanks feature double or triple-wall coatings, providing enhanced protection, robustness, corrosion resistance, and leak-proof designs.
While the problem of ethanol causing fiberglass fuel storage tank failures is largely limited to older tanks, it is important to note that not all boats or fuel storage tanks from before the mid-1980s will experience issues. Some boats from the 1970s with fiberglass tanks have not reported any problems when using ethanol-blended fuels.
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The use of ethanol in gasoline is due to environmental concerns
The use of ethanol in gasoline is a topic of debate among environmentalists, with some touting its benefits for reducing emissions and improving air quality, while others highlight its potential environmental and economic drawbacks. Let's delve into the arguments and explore the impact of ethanol on fiberglass fuel storage tanks.
Environmental Concerns and the Rise of Ethanol
The push for incorporating ethanol into gasoline stems from environmental sustainability goals. Ethanol is a bioorganic fuel that can replace fossil fuels in transportation, offering a more sustainable and domestically generated alternative. It has a higher octane rating than gasoline, improving engine performance. Additionally, ethanol blends are associated with reduced carbon dioxide and greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to the fight against climate change. The biodegradable nature of ethanol also lessens the environmental impact of fuel leaks and spills.
The Impact of Ethanol on Fiberglass Fuel Storage Tanks
Now, let's address the issue of ethanol's effect on fiberglass fuel storage tanks. There have been reports of ethanol weakening and dissolving the resin in older fiberglass tanks, leading to potential leaks. This issue predominantly affects boats with fiberglass tanks, causing engine damage and creating hard black deposits that impair intake valves and pushrods. The dissolved resin combines with the ethanol, forming a tar-like substance that can destroy the engine.
Environmental Drawbacks of Ethanol
Despite its touted environmental benefits, ethanol has faced criticism for its potential drawbacks. Growing corn for fuel can have a significant environmental impact, and increasing corn production for ethanol can lead to higher prices for this staple food crop. Additionally, higher-ethanol blends may contribute to increased air pollution, reduced fuel efficiency, and engine damage. There are also concerns about the impact of ethanol-based particles in the air on human health, with links to increased ozone-related issues and hospitalizations.
Striking a Balance
In conclusion, the use of ethanol in gasoline is a complex issue that requires careful consideration. While ethanol offers environmental benefits, it is crucial to address the challenges it poses, especially regarding its impact on fiberglass fuel storage tanks and the environmental consequences of corn production. Finding a balance between harnessing ethanol's advantages and mitigating its drawbacks is essential to ensure a sustainable and environmentally friendly energy future.
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Modern fiberglass tanks are compatible with ethanol storage
Ethanol is a highly corrosive substance that has been known to cause problems in fiberglass fuel storage tanks. However, modern fiberglass tanks are compatible with ethanol storage.
The compatibility of ethanol with fiberglass tanks depends on a variety of factors, including the quantity of alcohol, the age of the tank, and the type of resin used in the tank's construction. Older tanks, particularly those manufactured before the 1980s, are more susceptible to damage from ethanol due to the use of different resins. In addition, the accumulation of sludge in older tanks can also contribute to the problem.
Modern fiberglass tanks, on the other hand, are manufactured from polyester resins that are strengthened with glass fiber. These tanks are designed to store highly corrosive and inflammable liquids, including ethanol-blended fuels (E10, E15, E85), biodiesel fuels, petroleum products, and ultra-low sulfur diesel. They are also UL-tested and UL-listed, making them compatible with ethanol and gasoline storage.
The double-wall and triple-wall coatings in modern fiberglass tanks provide enhanced protection, making them robust, corrosion-resistant, and leak-proof. These tanks can hold up to 50,000 gallons of liquids and are widely used in industries to meet storage demands.
While modern fiberglass tanks are compatible with ethanol storage, it is still important for boat owners to research the compatibility of their tanks with the fuel available in their area. This is because ethanol can cause problems in older engines and fuel dispensing systems that are not designed to handle ethanol-blended fuels.
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Frequently asked questions
Ethanol slowly dissolves the resin in older fiberglass tanks, which then deposits on intake valves, causing them to stick and damaging the engine.
The issue stems from the replacement of MTBE (methyl tertiary-butyl ether) with ethanol as a gasoline additive. MTBE was found to contaminate groundwater supplies, so gasoline suppliers switched to ethanol.
The use of ethanol in older fiberglass fuel tanks can lead to hazardous particles that clog fuel injectors and carburetors. In more severe cases, fuel tanks may begin to leak, posing a risk of explosion.
Yes, methanol is another potential fuel additive. However, it is advised to avoid using methanol in any gas engine as it can cause significant damage.
Boats built before the 1980s or 1984 should have their fiberglass fuel tanks replaced with modern equivalents that are compatible with ethanol. Additionally, boaters should regularly check their fuel systems and drain tanks if necessary.
