Fuel Contamination Prevention Check List
Sources of Petrochemical/Fuel Contamination:
- Manufacturing/Refining
- The process of modern day refining creates petroleum molecules that break down and recombine into heavier sludge: i.e. paraffin, asphalt, tar.
- Transportation
- Super Tankers, fuel barges, railroad tank cars and tank trucks present the real possibility of contaminant introduction in transportation containers.
- Point of Use Container Tanks
- Many storage tanks have previous contaminants or contaminants may have been introduced from a recent discharge (fill) of oil or through leaking fill tubes or vents.
- Water
- Diesel fuel attracts and absorbs water. Water will damage fuel pumps, injectors and pre-heaters, it also promotes algae growth, corrodes tanks and combines with the fuel to produce addition sludge.
- Algae
- Algae are micro-organisms that live in the freewater and sustain their nourishment from ingesting the hydrocarbons within the fuel. Algae will facilitate and expedite the corrosive process, they will severely clog fuel filters, fuel lines, injectors and vent systems.
- Sludge
- Bottom sediments are composed of emulsified fuel, recombined fuel molecules, algae, corrosion by-products, dirt and foreign debris. Heavy sludge and algae slime accumulations can lead to filter and fuel line clogging and may also cause fuel pump and injector malfunction.
- Dormant Tanks
- Fuel standing in tanks for long time periods becomes contaminated with condenstion and rapid sludge build-up. Additionally engines running for short durations, i.e. "gen-sets" return warm fuel to a cold environment enhancing condensation and algae growth if present.
These are things "we" will do in addition for you to improve fuel life and reduce maintenance costs:
- Label your fuel fill caps.
- Ensure a waterproof fit on the fuel fill cap
- Make sure the fuel vent cannot allow the entrance of water
- Treat your fuel with an algicide during the recylcing/dialysis process
Your responsibility: Keep your fuel tanks "topped off", especially during extended non-use cycles. Plan in advance for scheduled system cleansing.
For more information on special companies that will clean your tank, please call APE at 800.248.8498
