Sylvie Willis
Water in a diesel fuel tank is a common issue, as diesel fuel is mildly hygroscopic, attracting and absorbing moisture from the air. Water can enter the tank through condensation, rising and falling temperatures, or external environmental factors. It is essential to remove water from the tank as soon as possible, as it can cause rust, corrosion, icing, and microbial growth, leading to severe engine damage. To remove water, one can use a bilge pump, water coalescing filters, or chemical additives such as demulsifiers or emulsifiers. Regularly checking the tank for water accumulation and keeping it full can help prevent water-related issues.
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What You'll Learn
Water in diesel fuel tanks is normal
Water in diesel fuel tanks is a common issue, and while it can cause significant problems, small amounts of water are usually present in most fuel tanks. This is because diesel fuel is mildly hygroscopic, attracting and absorbing moisture from the air. Water can also enter the fuel system through condensation or external environmental factors, such as refuelling in rainy weather.
While it is normal to have small amounts of water in diesel fuel tanks, it is essential to manage and control it to prevent damage to the engine and fuel quality. Water can freeze in diesel fuel in colder temperatures, particularly in small systems, which can lead to frozen water in the fuel line, filter, and bowl. This can be prevented by controlling the water level before it reaches freezing temperature.
Additionally, water provides an environment for microbes, such as bacteria and fungi, to establish and multiply. These microbes can produce acids that corrode tanks and clog filters, leading to costly repairs. Therefore, it is crucial to address water accumulation and consider using additives or separators to manage water levels in diesel fuel tanks.
To remove water from diesel fuel tanks, the simplest method is to drain the water, especially for above-ground tanks. For underground fuel storage, water coalescing filters or chemical control options can be used, along with additives such as emulsifiers or demulsifiers. Emulsifiers combine water with the fuel, while demulsifiers separate water from fuel, allowing it to be removed mechanically. Regular maintenance and vigilance are key to managing water in diesel fuel tanks effectively.
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Water in diesel fuel tanks causes damage
Water in diesel fuel tanks can cause a host of issues and lead to severe damage. Water can enter the engine through condensation or external environmental factors, such as rain or pressure washing. While small amounts of water are inevitable and manageable, excessive water can cause significant problems.
Water does not mix with diesel, and when present in high concentrations, it settles at the bottom of the tank. This water can then be ingested by the engine, leading to erratic idling, power loss, and sudden engine cut-outs during acceleration. The presence of water can also cause the fuel to appear cloudy or murky, and it may even result in white or black exhaust smoke.
Water in diesel fuel creates an environment conducive to microbial growth, providing the necessary conditions for bacteria and fungi to thrive. These microbes produce waste and acids that degrade fuel quality, corrode tanks, and clog filters. Additionally, water accelerates the oxidation process, leading to the formation of gums, varnishes, and sludge that can damage engine components.
Water-related issues can become more pronounced during winter months. As diesel fuel cools, its ability to hold dissolved water decreases, leading to the formation of free water. This water can freeze, causing issues with fuel pumps, fuel lines, and filters. To prevent water-related damage, it is essential to properly seal fuel tanks, store diesel in dry conditions, and consider using fuel additives or water dispersants.
Water in diesel fuel tanks can cause severe damage to both the fuel and engine. The water settles at the bottom of the tank and, when ingested by the engine, leads to performance issues and potential engine cut-outs. Water also facilitates microbial growth, degrades fuel quality, and accelerates corrosion. Regular maintenance, proper storage, and the use of additives can help mitigate water-related issues.
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How water gets into diesel fuel tanks
Water in diesel fuel tanks is a common issue that can cause significant damage to fuel quality and engine performance. Water can enter a diesel fuel tank through various means, and it is important to address this issue promptly to prevent costly repairs and maintain the optimal functioning of your engine.
Firstly, water can enter a diesel fuel tank through condensation. Condensation occurs due to temperature fluctuations, especially in above-ground tanks, and it can result in the formation of free water that may enter the engine's injection system. This condensation can also be a result of operating the vehicle and drawing down the fuel in the tank. As the fuel level decreases, air is drawn into the tank, particularly in warmer and more humid conditions. When the tank's internal temperature drops below the ambient air temperature, condensation forms.
Another way water can enter a diesel fuel system is through external environmental factors. Diesel fuel has hygroscopic properties, which means it attracts and absorbs moisture from the air at the molecular level. This quality makes diesel fuel susceptible to water contamination even when stored in clean, dry conditions. Additionally, water can enter the fuel system from poorly maintained storage tanks at diesel fuel retailers.
Water can also be present in the fuel when it is initially purchased. This issue has become more critical with the use of ultra-low sulfur diesel, which attracts more water and is less resistant to microbial growth than previous diesel fuels. Modern diesel fuel systems are less tolerant of water in the fuel, emphasizing the importance of minimizing water infiltration.
Lastly, water can enter the engine through microbial growth. Water provides the necessary environment for bacteria, fungi, and other microbes to thrive, leading to what is commonly known as "diesel bug." These microbes multiply rapidly, producing waste and clogging fuel filters with sludge and slime.
In summary, water can enter a diesel fuel tank through condensation, external environmental factors, microbial growth, and even the fuel itself. It is important to regularly check for water accumulation and take preventive measures, such as using fuel additives or separators, to avoid the severe consequences of water contamination in diesel fuel tanks.
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How to remove water from diesel fuel tanks
Water in diesel fuel tanks can cause significant damage to fuel quality and engine performance. Water contamination can cause issues like corrosion, power loss, engine damage, and microbial growth. Therefore, it is essential to remove water from diesel fuel tanks as soon as possible. Here are some methods to achieve this:
Prevention
Prevention is always better than cure. To avoid water in your diesel fuel tank, ensure your tank is sealed properly and always store diesel in clean, dry conditions. Keep fuel levels high to minimize air space and mitigate condensation.
Fuel Additives
Using fuel additives is a common method to remove water from diesel fuel tanks. There are two main types of additives: emulsifiers and demulsifiers. Emulsifiers cause water to combine with the fuel, while demulsifiers ensure that water drops to the bottom of the tank, allowing for easy removal. However, demulsifiers are generally recommended for diesel engines, as emulsifiers can cause issues at high pressures.
Fuel Filtration
Fuel filtration systems can effectively remove water from diesel fuel. One method utilizes a water separator that employs centrifugal force to separate water from the fuel. Another method uses filter media to capture water as the fuel flows through the system and back into the tank. Fuel polishing systems can also be employed to periodically filter contaminated fuel.
Manual Removal
If there is only a small amount of water in the tank, it can be manually extracted using a bilge pump. Remove the fuel, allow the water to settle, and then pump out the water from the bottom of the tank.
Drain the Tank
For above-ground tanks with significant water accumulation, draining the tank is the best option. After draining, clean the inside of the tank, removing any rust and corrosion.
Remember to regularly inspect your diesel fuel tank for water accumulation and take preventive measures to avoid water contamination, as it can lead to costly repairs and engine issues.
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Water removal prevention methods
Water in a diesel fuel tank can cause severe damage to the engine and its parts. Water can enter the engine through condensation or external environmental factors. It is, therefore, necessary to prevent water from entering the tank and to remove it as soon as possible if it does.
Seal the Fuel Tanks Properly
Ensure your fuel tanks are sealed properly. This will prevent water from entering the tank through condensation or external environmental factors.
Store Diesel in Clean, Dry Conditions
Always store diesel in a clean, dry place. This will help prevent moisture buildup and condensation, which can lead to water contamination.
Use a Fuel Stabilizer or Water Dispersant
Adding a fuel stabilizer or water dispersant to the diesel can help prevent water from mixing with the fuel. These additives keep water out of the engine components, preventing corrosion and other issues.
Keep Your Tank Full
Top off your tank as often as possible to limit humid air accumulation and condensation formation. This is especially important for vehicles, as leaving space in the tank can lead to condensation and water contamination.
Use a Water Separator
Most diesel vehicles are equipped with a water separator in the fuel filter assembly. This helps to separate and remove water from the fuel. Regularly empty and maintain the water separator as part of routine diesel engine maintenance.
Use a Demulsifier
A demulsifier is a chemical additive that separates water from the fuel, allowing it to sink to the bottom and be easily removed. This is a practical preventive measure to keep water from damaging your engine and fuel quality.
Regularly Check for Water Accumulation
Schedule regular checks, at least once a month, to inspect your diesel tank for water accumulation. This proactive approach will help you identify and address any water issues before they cause severe problems.
Treat Water Contamination Symptoms
If water is detected in the diesel fuel, it is crucial to remove it as soon as possible. Consider using fuel additives, such as emulsifiers or demulsifiers, to treat the symptoms of water contamination temporarily. However, these additives do not address the root cause, so be sure to combine them with other water removal methods.
Use a Fuel Tank Water Absorber
Consider using products like Aquafighter, a fuel tank water absorber that can effectively remove both free and emulsified water from diesel fuel tanks. This product reduces water content levels, meeting and exceeding diesel fuel standards, and provides a long-term solution to water contamination issues.
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Frequently asked questions
Water is a common contaminant in diesel fuel, often entering the tank through condensation or external environmental factors. Diesel fuel is mildly hygroscopic, meaning it attracts and absorbs moisture from the air.
Water in your diesel fuel tank can lead to a range of issues, including:
- Rust and corrosion
- Icing in winter months
- Microbial growth, including bacteria, fungus, and algae, which can wreck fuel quality and cause engine damage
- Clogged filters due to the build-up of sludge and slime
To remove water from your diesel fuel tank, you can:
- Drain the water off if the tank is above ground
- Use water coalescing filters or chemical control options such as additives, emulsifiers, or demulsifiers
- Pump out the water using a bilge pump or an extended pump that reaches the bottom of the tank
- Completely empty and clean out the tank, blow out all fuel lines and primary filters, and have a mechanic inspect the fuel system
To prevent water from entering your diesel fuel tank, you can:
- Keep your tank full to limit humid air accumulation and condensation formation
- Use a lock on your filler cap that can only be removed when locked, and keep the key with you
- Add a demulsifier to your fuel as a preventive measure to keep water separated for easy removal
You may notice that your vehicle or machine is not working as it used to, with symptoms such as erratic idling or cutting out while accelerating. Before beginning the removal process, you can also test the fuel for water by removing a sample of fuel from the tank and allowing the water to settle at the bottom of a clear container.
