As a fuel pump owner, you have responsibilities to keep a watch on everything to ensure that the fuel storage tank, gasoline dispensers and other items are working at their peak condition. One of the issues that can damage your fuel storage tank is water. If water enters the fuel tank, it will disrupt the fuel supply chain at your facility. Hence, you should take effective measures to prevent water from entering the tank.
Prevention is better than cure
Taking proactive steps against water contamination in your fuel supply tank is highly important. If such contamination ever happens, call in a professional fuel tank cleaning service provider. This way, you will be able to ensure durability, quality and reliability of your fuel storage structure.
How can water enter your fuel storage tank?
There are two reasons for water entering your fuel tank:
Ø Inadequate maintenance
Ø Improper sealing
Rainwater is the major cause for contamination. In winter months, condensation is a big issue for the fuel storage facility. When the mercury registers a significant drop, water accumulates in the tank and contaminates the fuel. Remember that even biofuels are not immune to water contamination as these fuels are hydroscopic, implying that they have a close affinity to water. Hence, regular fuel tank cleaning service is important.
What are the consequences of water contamination in your fuel storage tank?
First of all, make sure to have preventive measures in place. Once water gets into your fuel tank, it can create several problems. If not addressed, the situation will get worse and cost you a hefty sum for tank cleaning. Water and oil are incompatible and will create two different layers in the tank.
Water is light and will eventually settle at the bottom of the fuel storage tank. It will help in rust formation, compromising the health of the tank by making it breakable and vulnerable to cracks and holes.
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In addition, water entering your fuel tank creates an ideal situation for microbial contamination. Microbes are present in air, soil and rainwater. When rainwater comes in to contact with the tank’s contents, interaction starts and eventually promotes microbial growth.
Water contamination can severely degrade the quality of fuel. It leads to failed exhaust emissions, resulting in heavy engine damage. Though filters take a role in preventing water buildup, they are also vulnerable to becoming water clogged. Regular cleaning of underground fuel storage tanks is a way to reduce the risk of water contamination.