Katerina Swanson
Diesel fuel is a highly valuable resource, widely used in commercial transportation, farming, and military applications. It is important to store diesel fuel correctly, as improper storage can lead to degradation, contamination, and safety hazards. This guide will explore the key considerations for storing small amounts of diesel fuel, including safety measures, ideal conditions, and storage solutions, to ensure the longevity and quality of the fuel.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Storage Containers | Containers should be well-constructed, dry, and approved for storing flammable liquids. |
| Storage Location | Diesel should be stored in an isolated area, away from residences and ignition sources. Underground storage is preferable as it insulates the fuel from temperature-related issues. |
| Temperature | Diesel should be stored at temperatures below 32° Fahrenheit or 95° Fahrenheit to prevent accelerated degradation. |
| Additives | Biocides and fuel stabilizers can be added to prevent microbial growth and improve fuel stability. |
| Maintenance | Regular inspections and maintenance are necessary to prevent contamination and maintain fuel quality. |
| Safety | Children and pets should not have access to storage tanks. No smoking is allowed within 50-100 feet of the storage area. |
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What You'll Learn
Use approved containers and store away from residences
Diesel fuel is a highly functional petroleum product that powers commercial transportation vehicles, emergency generators, and farming equipment. It is also used in military applications. Due to its widespread use, it is imperative to store diesel fuel correctly to safeguard personnel and facilities.
Diesel fuel should be stored in approved containers, cabinets, and handling equipment. The Department of Energy's Energy Information Administration (EIA) recommends using approved containers to store diesel fuel safely. Eagle, an industry leader in flammable liquid storage and handling, offers FM-approved yellow cans for diesel storage in industrial and commercial facilities. These cans feature flashback protection and optional funnels for easy pouring. Type II safety cans have an additional actuated pouring valve for more controlled pouring.
When storing diesel fuel, it is crucial to keep it away from residences and in isolated areas. This helps limit access to only authorised personnel, reducing the risk of accidents. Additionally, storing diesel away from residences helps prevent water from pooling on top of the tank, which can cause rust in metal containers and encourage insect and bacterial growth.
To further enhance safety, it is recommended to keep diesel fuel away from ignition sources. No smoking should be allowed within 50 to 100 feet of the storage area, and any nearby electrical outlets should be rated for explosions. Maintaining the correct temperature is also essential for preserving diesel fuel. Storing diesel at temperatures below 32° Fahrenheit or above 95° Fahrenheit will accelerate degradation.
By following these guidelines and using approved containers, you can safely store small amounts of diesel fuel away from residences, minimising risks and ensuring the fuel's longevity.
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Keep fuel dry and cool
When storing diesel fuel, it is crucial to keep it dry and cool to maintain its quality and ensure its performance when used in engines. Here are some detailed instructions to achieve this:
Keep the fuel containers tightly sealed: Ensure that the lid or cap of the diesel container is always tightly secured. This prevents moisture from entering and causing contamination. Check the seals regularly to ensure they are intact and functioning correctly.
Store the fuel in a dry area: Choose a storage location that is dry and well-ventilated. Avoid areas prone to moisture, such as basements or locations near water sources. Keep the fuel away from direct contact with water or any other liquids that may cause contamination.
Use absorbent materials: Place absorbent materials, such as rags or absorbent pads, underneath the fuel container to catch any potential spills or leaks. This helps keep the storage area dry and prevents the fuel from coming into contact with moisture.
Maintain a cool environment: Diesel fuel should be stored in a cool environment to prevent it from breaking down and losing its quality. Avoid direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. If possible, store the fuel in a temperature-controlled area, such as an air-conditioned room or a well-shaded area.
Use a desiccant: Consider placing a desiccant, such as silica gel packets, inside the fuel container to absorb any moisture that may be present. This is especially useful if you live in a humid environment or if the fuel needs to be stored for an extended period.
By following these instructions, you can effectively keep your diesel fuel dry and cool, maintaining its stability and performance. Remember that proper fuel storage is essential to ensure the reliability of your diesel-powered equipment and vehicles.
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Prevent water contamination
Water contamination is a serious issue when it comes to storing diesel fuel. Water in the fuel can lead to the growth of fungus, which releases organic compounds that break down diesel molecules. To prevent water contamination, it is recommended to use a well-constructed, above-ground tank with a cover to keep rainwater out. Underground storage tanks can also be considered as they provide insulation from temperature-related issues, helping to maintain the ideal cool temperature for storing diesel fuel.
To prevent water from pooling on top of the tank, which can cause rust and encourage bacterial growth, it is important to maintain the structural integrity of the tank and keep it covered. Above-ground tanks with open tops are more susceptible to rainwater contamination, so minimizing the space in the tank and maintaining the correct fuel volume are critical to preventing water condensation accumulation. Regular inspections and maintenance of the tank can help identify any issues and reduce the risk of water contamination.
Using biocides is essential to preventing water contamination in diesel fuel. Biocides eliminate bacteria and prevent their growth at the water-diesel interface, where they thrive and multiply quickly. Additionally, preventing or eliminating biofilm, a thick sludge-like mass that can grow at the diesel-water interface, is crucial. Biofilm can reduce the effectiveness of biocides and promote re-infection of microbial growth, hindering diesel fuel feasibility.
For long-term storage, fuel stabilizers are required to extend the fuel life beyond 12 months. Additives such as Biobor JF can kill microbial contamination and preserve the fuel. Multifunctional additives like Biobor DC and Biobor MD can also stabilize the fuel and disperse water, increasing the shelf life and stability of diesel fuel. These measures are crucial in preventing water contamination and ensuring the longevity of diesel fuel.
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Avoid extreme temperatures
Diesel fuel can be stored at a wide range of temperatures, but it should be kept away from extreme temperatures. Storing it at less than 32° Fahrenheit or above 95° Fahrenheit will cause the fuel to degrade at an accelerated rate. While you can store your fuel at a variety of temperatures, the temperature you keep it at will have an impact on how long it can be stored.
Consider storing your diesel fuel in a covered area, sheltered from extreme weather, or underground, which can insulate the fuel from temperature-related issues. Underground storage tanks can keep temperatures cooler, and the quality of the fuel will last longer. However, underground tanks are more expensive than above-ground tanks.
If you opt for an above-ground tank, make sure it is installed in a building or under a lean-to. This will help prevent water from harming the tank and protect the diesel from radiant heat that can cause it to evaporate. It is important to keep water from pooling on top of the tank, as pooled water can cause rust in metal containers and encourage insect and bacterial growth.
To further protect your diesel fuel from extreme temperatures, avoid storing it in direct sunlight, as this can cause accelerated fuel degradation.
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Use biocides and stability treatments
Diesel fuel is susceptible to microbial contamination, especially due to its higher water content. This contamination can lead to equipment failure when the time comes to use it. Microbial contamination can be prevented and treated with biocides. Biocides are chemical additives that control and prevent microbial contamination in fuels. They kill microbes in fuel, including bacteria and fungi.
Biocides are essential for the effective preservation of fuel and fuel systems. The use of biocides is especially important when storing diesel for long periods. Biocide treatment should be carried out every six months for long-term storage.
Biocides can also be used in conjunction with fuel stabilizers for extended storage. Fuel stabilizers are added to diesel that will be stored for long periods to slow down the degradation of the fuel, thereby protecting its combustion quality. In order for stabilizers to be fully effective, they need to be added when the fuel is fresh and in good shape.
Additionally, it is important to regularly inspect and maintain equipment to identify any signs of water entry, equipment damage, and corrosion. Water accelerates fuel aging, reduces fuel stability, and contributes to microbial contamination. Therefore, removing any water found is a major priority.
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Frequently asked questions
The ideal container for storing small amounts of diesel fuel is a well-constructed, approved container that is flame-resistant and made out of material that does not accelerate degradation, like zinc or copper.
Diesel fuel should be stored at a temperature below 32° Fahrenheit or above 95° Fahrenheit to avoid degradation. The ideal temperature range is between 70°F and 85°F.
Diesel fuel can be stored for 6 to 12 months under ideal conditions. Beyond 12 months, fuel stabilizers are required.
To prolong the life of stored diesel fuel, use biocides and stability treatments to prevent bacteria growth and oxidation. Store the fuel in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and ignition sources.
Safety precautions for storing small amounts of diesel fuel include keeping it away from residences and sources of ignition, such as electrical outlets and smoking areas. Access to the fuel should be limited to authorized personnel only.
