Sylvie Willis
Fuel sampling is an important process for maintaining fuel quality and preventing equipment failures. When extracting a sample from a car's fuel tank, it is crucial to take certain precautions due to the highly flammable nature of fuel vapours. Before beginning, ensure that your vehicle is turned off and parked securely, with the fuel tank side next to the pump. Remove the fuel cap and set it aside, being mindful not to tap the fuel nozzle against the filler neck. To obtain a sample from the bottom of the tank, you can use a device like a Bacon Bomb (also known as a Fuel Thief or Pencil Bomb), which is lowered into the tank and allows fuel to flow into the cylinder. Alternatively, if your tank has a sampling valve, you can drain a sample by running a small amount of fuel out of the drain before filling your container. Remember to avoid taking samples directly from the very bottom of the tank, as that is where water and sediment accumulate. Instead, aim for 3-6 inches above the bottom.
Characteristics and Values
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Device used | Bacon Bomb, Pencil Bomb, Fuel Thief, Fuel Sampler Kits |
| Device characteristics | Cylinder with a cord, usually made from brass or non-sparking metal |
| Sampling location | 3-6 inches above the bottom of the tank, 18" above the bottom for the middle sample |
| Sampling valves | ASTM protocols allow draining samples from valves after running 5-10 seconds of fuel out first |
| Fuel storage | Keep samples on ice, wrap clear glass containers to keep out sunlight, use a tightly-sealed cap |
| Gas tank door | Unlock by engaging a fuel release lever or button near the driver's seat or door, or manually with a lever or pin |
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What You'll Learn
- Sampling devices: Use a Bacon Bomb, Fuel Thief, or sampling valves to extract fuel
- Sampling location: Sample from the top, middle, and bottom of the tank, avoiding the very bottom
- Sample collection: Seal and store samples properly, and put fuel samples on ice
- Safety: Avoid creating static electricity or sparks, and keep cell phones away
- Fueling up: Avoid filling your tank when the fueling truck is refilling underground tanks
Sampling devices: Use a Bacon Bomb, Fuel Thief, or sampling valves to extract fuel
When it comes to sampling devices, there are a few options to consider for extracting fuel from the bottom of a car's fuel tank. The industry standard is a device called a Bacon Bomb, also known as a Pencil Bomb or Fuel Thief. This device is usually made from brass or a non-sparking metal for safety and is designed to be lowered into the tank. It has a cord that can be pulled to allow fuel to flow into the cylinder, and it can be used to take samples at different depths. Samples should be taken 3-6 inches above the bottom of the tank to avoid water and sediment.
Another option is to use sampling valves. If your fuel storage tank has these valves, you can drain samples by running 5-10 seconds of fuel out of the drain before filling your sampling container. This method ensures that you get a representative sample from the middle or bottom of the tank without actually touching the bottom.
The K277 Series Bacon Bomb is another device that can be used to obtain samples from storage tanks, tank cars, and drums. It has a plunger assembly that opens when it strikes the bottom of the tank, allowing the sample to be collected. The plunger then closes when the bomb is withdrawn, creating a tight seal. Samples can be taken at various depths using extension rods, with some models offering sampling depths of up to 18 or even 24 inches off the bottom.
Finally, there are 8 oz Fuel Sampler Kits available that come with a sampler, chain, carry container, sample jars, and a carry case. This method involves lowering the sampler to the tank bottom, where the sample valve will open and fill with fluid. By lifting the sampler slightly, the valve will close, trapping the fluid inside. The sampler can then be lifted out of the tank and lowered into a sample jar.
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Sampling location: Sample from the top, middle, and bottom of the tank, avoiding the very bottom
When sampling from a fuel tank, it is important to take samples from the top, middle, and bottom of the tank. However, it is crucial to avoid the very bottom of the tank as that is where water, sludge, and sediment accumulate. Here are some detailed instructions for sampling from each of these locations:
Sampling from the top:
The process of sampling from the top of the fuel tank can vary depending on the type of tank and access available. For tanks with difficult access, a Hand Vacuum Pump can be used by inserting it into the fuel filler inlet. However, this method may not indicate whether the sample is from the top, middle, or bottom of the tank. If the tank has an inspection panel where the fuel float is located, it can be removed to access the fuel from the top. Alternatively, consider creating a tank access port specifically designed for obtaining fuel samples.
Sampling from the middle:
To sample from the middle of the tank, it is recommended to use a device such as a Bacon Bomb (also known as a Pencil Bomb or Fuel Thief). This device is designed to be lowered into the tank to the desired depth, typically 18 inches above the bottom for a middle sample. Once at the correct depth, a cord can be pulled to allow fuel to flow into the cylinder. These devices are usually made from brass or non-sparking metal for safety reasons.
Sampling from the bottom:
When sampling from the bottom of the fuel tank, it is important to avoid the very bottom where water and sediment are present. Instead, aim for a location 3 to 6 inches above the absolute bottom. Similar to middle sampling, a Bacon Bomb or similar device can be used to obtain a bottom sample. Lower the device to the desired depth, ensuring it is secure and properly sealed to prevent leakage. Once in position, activate the device to allow fuel to flow into the cylinder.
Additional considerations:
Regardless of the sampling location, it is crucial to use clean sampling devices and containers. Glass containers are inert but may require specialised packaging if sending samples to a lab. Clean plastic containers made with fluorinated plastic are also suitable. After obtaining the samples, it is recommended to put them on ice to prevent changes in the fuel. If using clear containers, wrap them to keep out sunlight. Finally, ensure the containers have tightly sealed caps before shipping or transporting them for testing.
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Sample collection: Seal and store samples properly, and put fuel samples on ice
Once you have successfully collected your fuel samples, it is important to seal and store them properly. Here are some detailed instructions to ensure proper sealing and storage:
Sealing the Samples
- Use a clean sampling device and container.
- If using a glass container, ensure it has a tightly-sealed cap and wrap it to keep out sunlight. Glass containers require more specialized packaging if you're mailing the sample to a lab.
- A clean plastic container made with fluorinated plastic is also an acceptable option.
- For fuel oil samples, some regulations require that the sample bottle is sealed, signed by the supplier's representative and the recipient, and kept intact with the seal onboard for a specified period.
Storing the Samples
- Put the fuel samples on ice as soon as possible.
- Do not store the samples in the freezer; instead, use the refrigerator if refrigeration is required. Many microbes do not survive freezing temperatures, which can alter the sample.
- If using a clear glass sample container, wrap it to keep out sunlight.
- Place the bottle inside a plastic bag, seal the bag, and then package it in a corrugated box for shipping.
Proper sealing and storage of fuel samples are crucial to maintain the integrity of the samples and prevent contamination or alteration. By following these instructions, you can ensure that your samples remain in a suitable condition for testing or other purposes.
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Safety: Avoid creating static electricity or sparks, and keep cell phones away
When sampling fuel from the bottom of a car fuel tank, it is crucial to prioritise safety by preventing static electricity or sparks, which can lead to fires. Here are some detailed guidelines to follow:
Firstly, it is important to use the appropriate equipment. The industry standard for fuel sampling is a device known as a Bacon Bomb, Pencil Bomb, or Fuel Thief. These tools are designed to be lowered into the tank, allowing fuel to flow into the cylinder safely. They are typically made from brass or other non-sparking metals to minimise the risk of creating sparks. If your fuel tank has sampling valves, you can drain samples from them, ensuring you run a small amount of fuel out of the drain first before collecting your sample.
Secondly, when handling the fuel sampling equipment, avoid creating any friction or movement that could generate static electricity. This includes getting in and out of your vehicle during the sampling process, as the movement can create static electricity due to the friction between the fuel and the vehicle's body. Always stay outside your vehicle once you start refueling and avoid re-entering until the process is complete.
Additionally, keep cell phones and other electronic devices away from the sampling area. Electronic devices can be a source of static electricity and should be kept at a safe distance to prevent any accidental sparks or ignition of fuel vapours. It is also crucial to avoid smoking or using any open flames near the fuel tank, as this can lead to a fire hazard.
By following these guidelines and prioritising safety, you can effectively minimise the risk of static electricity or sparks when pulling a sample from the bottom of a fuel tank in a car. Remember that proper grounding and bonding of equipment are also essential to prevent static electricity build-up, so ensure that any fuel dispensers, piping, and storage tanks are properly grounded and maintained.
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Fueling up: Avoid filling your tank when the fueling truck is refilling underground tanks
Fuel sampling is an important part of car maintenance. The industry standard for sampling fuel is a device called a Bacon Bomb, also known as a Pencil Bomb or Fuel Thief. This device is shaped like a cylinder and is lowered into the tank, with a cord that can be pulled to allow fuel to flow into the cylinder. These are usually made from brass or another non-sparking metal for safety reasons. It is important to sample from the right depth—around 3-6 inches above the bottom of the tank—as the very bottom is where sediment and water are found.
Now, onto why you should avoid filling up your car when the fueling truck is refilling the underground tanks: when the underground tanks are being refilled, sediment and debris are stirred up and can end up being passed into your car's fuel system. This sediment can clog your vehicle's fuel filters and injectors, leading to poor performance and potential failures. While it may be a small amount of sediment and debris, over time it can shorten the lifespan of these components.
It is worth noting that the average customer has no way of knowing what product is being delivered by the fueling truck, what has already been delivered, or the levels of the underground tanks. The best course of action is to wait until the fueling truck has finished or to go to another gas station.
Additionally, if you get regular fuel deliveries, you can take a sample directly from the fuel delivery truck. This will give you a representative sample of the fuel received from the fuel terminal. However, remember that fuel samples change over time, especially when considering microbial testing, so be sure to store them properly and ship them promptly for accurate testing results.
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Frequently asked questions
On older cars, you can open the fuel tank with a latch on the outside of the car. On newer cars, you will need to pull a lever under the dashboard or push a button near the door.
The industry standard for taking a fuel sample is a device called a Bacon Bomb (also known as a Pencil Bomb or Fuel Thief). It is a cylinder that is lowered into the tank and has a cord that can be pulled to allow fuel to flow into the cylinder. You should take your sample 3-6 inches above the bottom of the tank, as the true bottom is where water and sediment collect.
After collection, the sample should be sealed and stored in a safe location until it is transported to a laboratory. To ensure accuracy and minimise the risk of contamination, multiple samples are usually extracted. It is recommended to put fuel samples on ice and, if using a clear glass container, to wrap it to keep out sunlight.
