Katerina Swanson
Diesel fuel can degrade over time, forming a sludge-like texture that clogs machinery. To prevent this, it is important to store diesel in a cool, dry, and clean environment. Tanks should be cleaned regularly, and fuel treatment products can be used to remove water and contaminants. Diesel fuel additives can also improve engine performance and operability, as well as maintain fuel tank hygiene. In addition, water absorbers, stabilizers, and
Characteristics and Values of Cleaning Old Diesel Fuel
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Storage | Store diesel in a cool, dry, and clean environment without contact with water. |
| Temperature | Keep the tank cool, ideally around 20°F, but not higher than 85°F. |
| Water | Water in diesel can cause condensation, microbial growth, and acid that clogs the tank. Use water absorbers and demulsifying treatments to separate water from fuel. |
| Contamination | Prevent contamination by using biocides to stop bacterial and fungal growth. Use bulk filtration systems to remove contaminants before pumping diesel into equipment. |
| Maintenance | Establish a monitoring and maintenance plan. Regularly drain free water and clean tanks to prevent fuel filter plugging. Use fuel additives and treatments to maintain fuel stability and cleanliness. |
| Fuel Life | Diesel lasts around 6-12 months if stored properly. It degrades over time and should be replaced within this period to prevent issues. |
| Fuel Testing | Develop a periodic testing procedure to monitor fuel quality and cleanliness. |
| Fuel Polishing | Use fuel polishing equipment or formulas to remove water, slime, and contaminants, and stabilize fuel. |
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What You'll Learn
Use fuel additives to clean old diesel fuel
Diesel fuel can degrade over time, so it's important to take steps to ensure its quality and performance. One way to do this is by using fuel additives, which can help to improve stability, protect the fuel system, and enhance engine performance.
One example of a fuel additive is Clear-Diesel Fuel & Tank Cleaner, which is designed to remove water, slime, and contaminants from diesel fuel. It also helps to stabilize the fuel during long-term storage. To use Clear-Diesel Fuel & Tank Cleaner, follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer. Firstly, if possible, pump or drain excess water and fuel contaminants from the bottom of the fuel tank until diesel fuel appears. Then, add the recommended amount of the additive to the fuel tank. For example, add 16 ounces of Clear-Diesel to each 20 gallons of diesel fuel to clean the fuel tank and prevent premature fuel-filter plugging. To maintain a clean fuel tank and stabilize the fuel for long-term storage, add 16 ounces of Clear-Diesel to each 40 gallons of fuel tank capacity and then fill the tank with diesel fuel. It is recommended to use Clear-Diesel at least quarterly or as needed.
Another option is to use Bell Performance's Dee-Zol additive, which is a multi-function treatment for diesel fuel. It can improve mileage, remove water, clean the engine, and protect fuel system parts at a low treat rate and an inexpensive price.
Additionally, there are fuel additives available that contain detergents, such as PIB detergents (polyisobutylene) and PEA polyether amine detergents, which are formulated to be compatible with gasoline containing more than 20% ethanol. Using a fuel additive with a higher level of these detergent chemistries can improve the chances of successfully using old diesel fuel, as long as it hasn't undergone phase separation.
It's important to note that not all fuel additives are created equal, and some may not be effective in restoring old diesel fuel to its previous condition. For example, if diesel fuel has undergone phase separation, it is highly unlikely that any additive will be able to restore it. Therefore, it is crucial to properly store diesel fuel and take preventative measures to avoid issues associated with old diesel fuel, such as sludge formation, clogging, and corrosion.
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Prevent water contamination
Water contamination is a significant threat to diesel engines and can cause issues like corrosion, engine damage, and unplanned downtime. Here are some detailed and direct instructions to prevent water contamination when cleaning old diesel fuel:
Keep Fuel Levels High and Containers Sealed
Minimize air space in your fuel tank by keeping fuel levels as high as possible. This reduces the air space and helps mitigate condensation. Additionally, ensure that the tank or container is tightly sealed to prevent moisture from entering.
Regularly Inspect and Maintain Your Fuel Tank
Routinely check your fuel tank for leaks or damage. Promptly repair any leaks to prevent water from seeping into the tank. Regular maintenance also includes cleaning fuel lines, injectors, and other components to prevent the buildup of debris and sediment.
Choose Quality Fuel and Suppliers
Use high-quality diesel fuel that is less likely to contain contaminants and impurities. Select reputable fuel suppliers with a strong history of quality control. Ensure that the fuel delivery equipment is clean and well-maintained to avoid any contamination.
Use Fuel Additives and Stabilizers
Treat your diesel fuel with additives that are designed to remove water and prevent microbial growth. Clear-Diesel Fuel & Tank Cleaner is one such product that can be added to the fuel to remove water and stabilize it for long-term storage. Additionally, consider using fuel stabilizers, especially if your engine will be inactive for extended periods.
Employ Fuel Polishing and Filtration
Fuel polishing is a technical cleaning process that removes water, sediment, and microbial contamination. It is a three-stage process that can be done annually or as per expert recommendations. Additionally, use filtration systems to trap suspended solids and fluids. Advanced filters can capture water separated from diesel by centrifugal force, and water-blocking filtration media can absorb residual water.
Prevent Stagnation with Fuel Circulators
Use a fuel circulator to prevent diesel fuel from becoming stagnant, especially in storage tanks with low usage. A circulator like the CTS fuel recirculation unit breaks down sludge and utilizes a two-stage water and particle filtration process to remove impurities.
Use Water Absorbers
Consider using products like Aquafighter, a water absorber that can be placed inside your fuel tank. It forces a chemical reaction that separates bound water from fuel molecules, ensuring your diesel fuel is water-free.
Remember, preventing water contamination is crucial to maintaining the performance and longevity of your diesel engine.
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Use biocides to prevent microbial growth
Diesel fuel can degrade over time and is best replaced within six to twelve months. Old diesel can cause machinery to break down as it tends to stick to the pipes of the machinery. It is very important to store diesel with proper measures as old diesel can clog machinery.
To prevent diesel from getting contaminated, ensure that the fuel tank remains clean. Tanks should be cleaned properly and stored in a cool, dry place. Humid and warm places should be avoided to maintain the integrity of the fuel tank. Water in the tank can cause condensation, leading to bacterial growth.
Biocides can be used to prevent microbial growth in diesel fuel. They are often poured into the fuel tank to control the proliferation of microorganisms, such as bacteria and fungi. Biocides can effectively kill microbes and prevent future microbial growth. However, they do not address the root cause of microbial contamination, which is the presence of water in the fuel tank. Biocides cannot remove water or solid contaminants from the fuel, leaving behind dead organic matter and sludge that can clog fuel filters. Additionally, repeated use of biocides may lead to microorganisms developing resistance to the treatment.
Bio Kleen Diesel Fuel Biocide is one such product that can be used to kill microbes in diesel fuel. It can be added to storage tanks or fuel tanks to control microbial growth in diesel oil, fuel oil, gasoline, or kerosene. It is important to follow the instructions on the product label and ensure it is used consistently with the labeling guidelines.
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Clean fuel tanks regularly
Clean fuel tanks are essential to prevent diesel contamination. Diesel can be stored for 6-12 months if stored correctly, but it is recommended to use a fuel polishing formula to ensure the fuel is stabilised for long-term storage.
Water is a common issue in diesel fuel, and today's cleaner-burning fuels with reduced sulfur content are more prone to water separation and contamination. Water in the tank can cause microbial growth, such as algae, which produces an acid that clogs the tank and can lead to engine breakdown. Therefore, it is important to regularly check for pooled water in the tank, especially after rain, and remove it. Water absorbers, stabilisers, and biocides can also be used to prevent water contamination.
Diesel fuel can also be contaminated by dirt, soft solids, or bugs, so it is important to have a good filtration system to prevent the entry of these contaminants. A single-pass filtration system on the inlet of the bulk storage tank can help maintain desired cleanliness levels and support advanced fuel system technology. Additionally, installing T.R.A.P. desiccant breathers with integrated high-efficiency air filtration can reduce the risk of moisture and contaminants entering the tank.
To clean a fuel tank, it is recommended to pump or drain excess water and fuel contaminants from the bottom of the fuel tank until diesel fuel appears. Then, add a fuel polishing formula or a diesel fuel and tank cleaner to remove water, disperse contaminants, and stabilise the fuel. This process should be done at least quarterly or as needed.
Regular maintenance and cleaning of fuel tanks are crucial to ensure the longevity of the diesel fuel and the tank itself. By following these steps and maintaining proper fuel storage conditions, you can prevent issues caused by old diesel fuel and keep your equipment running smoothly.
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Store diesel fuel correctly
Diesel fuel is a refined product made from crude oil and is widely used for powering vehicles, generators, and farming equipment. It is susceptible to contamination and degradation over time, especially if not stored correctly. To ensure the longevity of diesel fuel and maintain its quality, it is essential to follow proper storage procedures.
Firstly, choose a suitable location for storing diesel fuel. While diesel can be stored across a wide temperature range, it should be kept away from extreme temperatures. The optimal temperature range for storage is between 32° Fahrenheit and 95° Fahrenheit. Storing diesel outside of this range will accelerate its degradation. Consider insulated storage options, such as covered areas, underground storage, or shelters to protect the fuel from extreme weather conditions.
Secondly, select a well-constructed storage tank or container that is specifically designed for diesel fuel storage. Avoid cheap fuel storage solutions, as they may compromise the quality of the fuel. Ensure the tank or container keeps the fuel dry, as moisture can lead to the growth of bacteria and fungus, resulting in contamination. Additionally, use approved containers and handling equipment to safeguard against potential ignition and safety hazards associated with flammable liquids.
To further enhance the longevity of diesel fuel, consider using fuel additives and biocides. Biocides prevent the growth of bacteria and fungus, reducing the risk of contamination. Additives like Clear-Diesel Fuel & Tank Cleaner help remove water, disperse contaminants, and stabilize the fuel during long-term storage. Regularly inspect your fuel system and maintain fuel quality by addressing any issues promptly.
By following these guidelines, you can effectively store diesel fuel and maintain its quality over time. Proper storage is crucial to prevent costly damage and ensure the optimal performance of engines and equipment that rely on diesel fuel.
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Frequently asked questions
Ideally, a thorough cleaning should be done every decade. However, regular maintenance and checks should be carried out to ensure the fuel is in optimal condition.
Signs of spoilage include black smoke, a rotten smell, and a gel-like consistency.
Old diesel can cause machinery to break down as it clogs pipes and filters. It can also corrode the tank.
Products such as Clear-Diesel Fuel & Tank Cleaner, Diesel Kleen +Cetane Boost, Diesel Fuel Supplement +Cetane Boost, and Diesel 9-1-1 can be used to clean diesel fuel tanks and stabilise fuel during long-term storage.
