Diesel fuel is the result of the distillation of crude oil; the fuel is a mixture of hydrocarbons that we use in a number of ways. However, diesel drums are usually too small and inconvenient for business needs. In these cases, diesel storage tanks work as a great on-site fuel storage option. Making this wise decision will offer various advantages to your business in terms of reducing costs, saving time, and enhancing the efficiency of operations. The only drawback to having your fuel storage tank is often the risks that come with it. Fuel theft is pretty common in many areas due to its high prices. However, some factors should be taken into consideration when you are making this decision to choose the best one for your needs.
Different Types and Sizes of Storage TanksÂ
Different types and sizes are available to satisfy varying business needs. Generally speaking, storage tanks are usually categorized into pressurized and atmospheric tanks. Atmospheric tanks are better suited for diesel fuel. It’s not surprising that these tanks require specific safety requirements to ensure that they are bullet-proof to leaks and spillages in addition to the tank’s level of safety. Oil Firing Technical Association (OFTEC) stated some guidelines for the placement of the tank depending on its capacity. If the tank stores up to 3,500 liters, it should be installed at least two meters away from the building. Tanks that can hold up more than 3,500 liters should be placed at least 6 meters away from the building.
Types and sizes vary from drums, bowsers, aboveground tanks, and underground tanks. Dimensions and capacity should be decided upon the needs of every client. Tanks are usually made either from steel or plastic. As you see more different available tank sizes, you will come to learn that tanks can vary from only 1000 liters to 90,000 liters and much more. However, bigger is not always better. Your choice should always depend on your needs, seeing as the bigger options are far more expensive to keep.Â
Bunded Diesel TanksÂ
To get the image of a bunded diesel tank, the most accurate description is that it’s a tank within a tank. An inner tank is contained with an outer tank (bund) to offer maximum protection against leaks and spillages. Even in the event of oil spillage from the inner tank, the oil will spill in the outer tank. Otherwise, the oil will contaminate the surrounding area. The tank is provided with dispensing equipment. Usually, bunded tanks are made of steel with a thickness that varies from 3mm to 6mm. The capacity usually starts from 1000 liters and up to 130,000 liters. Â
Plastic VS Steel Diesel Tank
While steel diesel tanks offer durability and great adaptability, plastic tanks can be made of recyclable plastic that is manufactured to be sturdy against any possible risks. Plastic tanks are considered to be a more affordable option than steel ones. The latter is more expensive due to their serviceable lifespan that sometimes reaches up to 30 years. Steel tanks are made by special requests with any desirable requirements, capacities, and dimensions to satisfy individual needs. Plastic tanks’ limitations in terms of the design and capacity might not make it the best choice if you need large tanks. Steel tanks, on the other hand, can be fabricated to reach a higher capacity.
Calculating the Right Storage Tank for Your NeedsÂ
The diameter and dimensions of fuel storage tanks naturally affect their capacity. Average diesel tanks usually come in a 30-meter diameter and a 10-meter high. Other tanks that have a diameter of 88 meters and a height of 20 meters can contain up to 118,000 cubic meters. Some customized tanks can hold up to 16 million gallons of diesel oil.
Determining the right size of a diesel storage tank is an overwhelming process that requires some essential factors to be taken into account. The fuel-efficiency of the machinery you are using, the frequency of your usage, the duration of use, and how often you would like to resupply the tank should all be taken into consideration when you are deciding on the right tank capacity. Some people prefer purchasing a bigger tank instead of risking a shortage of supply.
The need and importance for a diesel storage tank rely on the industry; however, for some business, they are considered to be a necessity. For example, the transport and logistics industry uses large quantities of diesel fuel on a regular basis; a fuel storage tank, in these cases, is a must. Tanks come in different sizes, types, and additional features. So, it’s important to invest enough time and effort into finding the right tank that will be suitable for your needs.
