Regan Brown
Diesel fuel tanks are susceptible to contamination by microbes, including mould, fungus, and bacteria. This contamination is often referred to as diesel algae, although it is not actually algae as algae require sunlight to grow and fuel tanks are dark. The microbes feed on hydrocarbons in the diesel fuel and produce waste, leading to corrosion and engine damage. Water in the tank creates favourable conditions for these microbes, and they can grow rapidly, causing issues such as clogged filters and reduced fuel flow. Preventative measures, such as keeping the tank full and using fuel additives or biocides, can help to avoid diesel algae. However, overuse of biocides can lead to microbe resistance and fuel system corrosion. Regular testing and proper maintenance are crucial to keep diesel fuel tanks clean and functioning properly.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Algae growth in diesel fuel tanks | Algae require sunlight to grow, so it is unlikely to grow in a closed, dark tank. However, other microbes, including mold, fungus, and bacteria, can grow and create sludge, often mistaken for algae. |
| Identification | Regular testing of the fuel and the nozzle can identify the presence of microbes and water, which fosters their growth. Increased fuel filter replacement rates may also indicate microbial growth. |
| Prevention | Keep tanks full to prevent humidity and moisture, which promote bacterial growth. Use fuel stabilizers, additives, and biocides to prevent and treat microbial contamination. Maintain the fuel system and keep the tank clean. |
| Treatment | If microbes are present, remove water, clean the tank, and use biocides or chemical treatments. Mobile fuel polishing can remove sludge but is not recommended for long-term microbe prevention. |
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What You'll Learn
How to identify algae/microbe growth in diesel fuel
Although often referred to as algae, the growth in diesel fuel is actually microbes, including mould, fungus, and bacteria. Algae need sunlight to grow, and diesel tanks are too dark.
- Filter plugging: Keep an eye on your fuel filters and how often you need to replace them. Microbes can clog your engine filter, so you may need to replace it more often if you have microbial growth.
- Engine stalling and performance issues: Microbial growth can lead to engine stalling and performance issues.
- Water in the tank: Water in your diesel fuel tank can create favourable conditions for microbes to grow. You can purchase a test kit to check for water in your tank.
- Microbe testing: You can purchase a bacteria test kit to test for microbes in your diesel fuel. The ASTM D7463-08 test detects the presence of Adenosine Triphosphate (ATP), an energy-bearing molecule found in all living cells. If ATP is present, it indicates that microbes are living in your diesel tank.
- Visual inspection: In some cases, you may be able to see the microbial growth in your diesel fuel. It may appear as a slimy, black substance.
If you find that you have microbial growth in your diesel fuel, there are several treatment options available, including biocides and fuel additives. However, preventing microbial growth is much easier and more cost-effective than treating it. Proper maintenance of your diesel tank, including keeping it clean and dry, can help prevent microbial growth.
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Testing for microbes and water in diesel tanks
While algae require sunlight to grow, and therefore cannot grow inside a closed and dark diesel tank, microbes, including mould, fungus, and bacteria, can get inside your diesel fuel tank and grow, creating biomass, or sludge. Water in the tank creates favourable conditions for these microbes to grow, as they thrive in the layer between the water and the fuel.
To test for microbes and water in diesel tanks, you can purchase a bacteria test kit, which can determine the presence of microbes and water at the bottom of the tank. These kits are safe and easy to use and do not require any special equipment or training. They can identify the growth of common bacteria and micro bug cells, as well as fungi, yeast, mould, and algae. To use the kit, follow these steps:
- Remove the test paddle from the housing, being careful not to touch or contaminate the slide gel strips.
- Obtain a sample of diesel from the bottom of the fuel tank, where bugs are more likely to be, or from the fuel filter, water separator, or directly from the tank.
- Immerse the test paddle into the diesel sample for about 10 seconds, ensuring that all the test gel is coated.
- Allow excess diesel to drip off the paddle, and remove any remaining drips with a paper towel or cloth.
In addition to testing for microbes, you can also visually inspect your fuel filters and track how often they need to be replaced. Microbes can cause fuel filters to plug quicker than normal, indicating their presence in the fuel.
If testing confirms the presence of microbes, there are several treatment options available, including biocides and fuel additives. Biocides are chemical treatments that can kill bacteria and other contaminants. However, overuse of biocides can lead to microbe resistance and potential corrosion of the fuel system. Fuel additives, on the other hand, work by pulling water up into the fuel, eliminating the layers and preventing microbial growth. Regular testing and treatment cycles can help keep your diesel tank free of microbes and sludge, maintaining the health and performance of your engine.
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Preventing algae/microbe growth in diesel fuel
While algae require sunlight to grow, so it cannot grow inside a diesel fuel tank, microbes such as mould, bacteria, and fungi can. These microbes can enter your diesel fuel tank and cause damage if left unchecked. To prevent this, you should take proactive measures to keep your diesel fuel tank clean and free of microbes. Here are some ways to prevent algae/microbe growth in diesel fuel:
Test Your Fuel Tank Regularly
Regularly testing your diesel fuel tank for microbes is an important preventative measure. ATP testing is the best kind of testing as it is fast, accurate, and less prone to false negatives and positives. Testing your fuel tank at least once a year will help you stay ahead of any potential issues.
Remove Water from the Tank
Water creates favourable conditions for microbes to grow, so removing water from your diesel fuel tank is crucial. You can do this by using fuel additives that pull water up into the fuel, eliminating the layers. Additionally, you should drain water from your water separator frequently.
Use Fuel Additives or Biocides
Fuel additives can help prevent microbe growth by eliminating the layers of water and fuel that microbes thrive in. However, be careful not to overuse additives as this can create more problems. Biocides are another option, as they kill active microbial contamination in the tank. However, biocides should be used sparingly as they can lead to the development of biocide-resistant microbes over time.
Employ a Fuel Maintenance System
For Tier-4 engines, automated fuel maintenance systems are an effective way to prevent microbial growth. These systems work on a programmed schedule to regularly pull fuel from the tank and filter out contaminants. Fuel maintenance systems are better at maintaining fuel cleanliness compared to fuel polishing systems, which are more reactive.
Use a Fuel Stabilizer
If you know your engine will be sitting for an extended period, consider using a fuel stabilizer. Adding a fuel stabilizer to diesel fuel can help prevent the growth of bacteria and other microbial contamination.
Keep Your Fuel Tank Clean
Maintaining the cleanliness of your fuel tank is the best way to prevent diesel algae/microbe growth. This includes regularly cleaning your tank and removing any sludge or biomass that may have built up.
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Removing algae/microbe growth from diesel fuel
While algae require sunlight to grow, and thus cannot grow inside a closed and dark diesel fuel tank, microbes, including mould, fungus, and bacteria, can get inside the tank and grow, creating a sludge-like biomass. Water in the tank creates favourable conditions for these microbes to grow, and they can cause engine damage, corrosion, and performance issues.
To remove algae/microbe growth from diesel fuel, you can follow these steps:
- Test the fuel: Conduct regular tests to determine the presence of microbes and water in the tank. ATP testing is recommended as it is fast, accurate, and less prone to false results.
- Remove water: Clean the tank and remove as much water as possible. While this will not kill the microbes, it makes it harder for them to grow.
- Use a biocide: Once the water is removed, introduce a dedicated biocide to kill the active microbial contamination. Ensure you use enough biocide to treat the maximum amount of fuel in the tank, and inject it into the fuel line to ensure proper mixing.
- Fuel additives: As an alternative to biocides, fuel additives can be used to pull water up into the fuel, eliminating the layers.
- Mobile fuel polishing: This method involves circulating fuel out of the tank, filtering it, and returning it. However, it may be considered overkill for treating diesel fuel and is not recommended for long-term prevention.
- Preventative measures: Proper care and maintenance of your system are crucial. Use high-quality diesel fuel, regularly clean and maintain the fuel tank and lines, and use fuel stabilizers if the engine will be sitting for an extended period.
Remember, preventing microbe growth is much easier and more cost-effective than treating an infestation.
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Diesel fuel composition and its impact on algae/microbe growth
Diesel fuel is a mixture of hydrocarbons, which microbes feed on and thrive in. While often referred to as "diesel algae", the growth in diesel fuel tanks is not actually algae, as algae are microscopic plant organisms that require sunlight to grow, and fuel tanks do not provide the required light. The growth is, in fact, microbes such as mould, fungus, and bacteria.
The primary components that create an ideal environment for the growth of these microbes are air, water, and temperature. Water creates favourable conditions for microbes to grow and reproduce, and it often gets into the tank or separates from the fuel, forming a layer at the bottom. The microbes then grow between the layers of water and fuel. The presence of water in the tank can be determined by testing, and if found, the tank must be emptied and dried to prevent microbial growth.
The source and composition of diesel fuel also contribute to favourable growth conditions for microbes. Since 2014, there has been a transition to ULSD (Ultra Low Sulfur Diesel), which has fewer aromatics and less sulfur, and more biodiesel content. This change in composition has resulted in diesel fuel that is more conducive to microbial growth.
To prevent and treat microbial growth in diesel fuel tanks, several measures can be taken:
- Fuel additives can be used to eliminate the water layer by pulling it up into the fuel, thereby disrupting the environment for microbial growth.
- Biocides or chemical treatments can be introduced into the tank to kill bacteria and other contaminants. However, overuse of biocides can lead to the development of microbe resistance and potential corrosion of the fuel system.
- Mobile fuel polishing can be employed to circulate fuel out of the tank, filter it, and return it to the tank. While this method can remove visible sludge, it is not recommended for long-term microbe prevention.
- Regular testing of the diesel fuel tank can help maintain sludge and water-free conditions, ensuring the optimal performance of the engine.
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Frequently asked questions
Diesel algae is a term used to refer to microbial growth in diesel fuel tanks. These microbes include mold, fungus, and bacteria.
There are a few ways to tell if you have algae in your diesel fuel tank:
- You can test your diesel fuel tank regularly to see if there are microbes present.
- Keep an eye on your fuel filters and track how often you need to replace them. Microbes can plug fuel filters more quickly than normal.
- Check for the presence of water in your fuel tank, which creates favorable conditions for microbial growth.
Here are some ways to get rid of algae in your diesel fuel tank:
- Use a biocide or chemicals that kill bacteria and other contaminants.
- Treat with a diesel additive that removes water from the fuel.
- Use a mobile fuel polishing system to circulate, filter, and return the fuel.
