FAQs - Fuel Dispensing Tanks

Longevity and security are among the main reasons to select steel over plastic. That is not to say that a plastic tank will not last or hold up to opportunists trying to get at your valuable commodity however, but good points to consider. Also, steel are more resistant to outside forces. Read our complete guide of steel vs plastic tanks here.

A fuel management system protects your fuel by only allowing access to authorised persons.

The system allows you to assign key fobs (standard fuel management system) or mobile app licenses (B.SMART system) to certain users to grant them access to the pump and the fuel.

This access can also be stopped at any time to add further protection by deactivating the fobs or licenses at any time (usually in the case of an employee leaving the business or one going missing).

The computer system also gives you many benefits to protect your fuel such as:

• Setting a fuel limit for users so they can overfill or underfill their vehicles.
• Ability to disable the pump in the evenings or holidays.
• Add extra references so the user must provide a reason as to why they are dispensing the fuel

HVO fuel boasts exceptional stability and a longer storage duration, allowing you more flexibility with your fuel management. At Fuel Tank Shop, we offer a wide range of HVO fuel tanks available in various sizes and materials, specifically designed to store HVO fuel safely and efficiently. When stored under proper conditions, HVO fuel can maintain its quality for up to 10 years or more – although the storage duration can vary depending on factors like the quality of the initial fuel and the presence of any contaminants.

The prolonged shelf life of HVO fuel is due to the rigorous hydrotreatment process during production, which results in a fuel with reduced susceptibility to degradation and contamination. It is advisable to regularly inspect your stored HVO fuel and look for any signs of water accumulation or sediment settling at the bottom of the storage container, as these can compromise the fuel's quality over time. If you spot any issues, it's recommended to address them promptly by filtering or treating the fuel as necessary.

The pricing dynamics of HVO fuel and diesel can vary based on a multitude of factors. At times, HVO fuel might appear to have a higher upfront cost compared to conventional diesel. This can be attributed to the production process and the relatively smaller scale of HVO fuel production in comparison to the well-established diesel industry. However, it's crucial to dig deeper and consider the long-term financial perspective.

One of the financial benefits of HVO fuel lies in its potential for enhanced engine performance and maintenance. HVO's cleaner combustion can lead to reduced engine wear and deposits, ultimately extending the lifespan of your engines and potentially offsetting the initial cost difference. As demand for sustainable fuels like HVO grows, economies of scale could come into play, gradually bringing down production costs and narrowing the price gap between HVO and diesel. In some regions, tax breaks and subsidies might be offered for using renewable fuels like HVO as part of efforts to reduce emissions and promote sustainability. This can make HVO fuel more financially attractive compared to diesel, especially when factoring in the broader environmental benefits. As technologies evolve and the renewable fuel sector advances, it's reasonable to anticipate innovations that could enhance the efficiency of HVO production and distribution. These could lead to more competitive pricing over time.

HVO emits significantly fewer greenhouse gases and harmful pollutants when compared to traditional diesel. This means cleaner air, a minimised carbon footprint, and a positive contribution to combatting air pollution and climate change. Its seamless compatibility with existing diesel infrastructure means you won’t need to invest in extensive engine modifications or infrastructure changes – it can be directly blended with or used in place of conventional diesel, making the transition to this cleaner fuel hassle-free. Whether you're driving a personal car, operating commercial vehicles, or using heavy machinery, the versatility of HVO ensures a smooth integration without disruptions.

HVO fuel is derived from renewable sources such as vegetable oils and animal fats. By utilising these renewable feedstocks, you're contributing to a circular economy, reducing dependence on fossil fuels, and promoting responsible resource utilisation. HVO fuel also has a positive impact on engine performance and maintenance. Thanks to its cleaner combustion, this fuel can lead to reduced engine deposits, longer maintenance intervals, and improved overall efficiency. Your engines will run smoother, requiring less frequent servicing, that will help extend their lifespan.

Derived from renewable sources like vegetable oils and animal fats, hydrotreated vegetable oil fuel (or HVO) is synthesised through a process called hydrotreatment. During hydrotreatment, impurities are removed, and the molecular structure of the feedstock is modified, resulting in a cleaner-burning and more environmentally friendly fuel. With its similar composition to traditional diesel, HVO fuel can be seamlessly integrated into existing diesel engines and infrastructure.

When burned, HVO fuel emits fewer carbon dioxide, particulate matter, and other harmful pollutants compared to conventional diesel. This characteristic makes it an attractive option for combating air pollution and minimising the carbon footprint of vehicles and machinery, significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions and air pollutants compared to traditional diesel. HVO fuel is well-suited for use in trucks, buses, construction equipment, and agricultural machinery. The compatibility with existing diesel infrastructure means you can seamlessly transition to HVO fuel without making significant modifications.

Fuel filters are an essential component of any fuel system, as they are responsible for removing contaminants and impurities from fuel before it is used in vehicles, equipment, or machinery. These contaminants can include dirt, debris, rust, and other particles that can clog or damage fuel system components, leading to reduced performance and shortened lifespan.

There are several different types of fuel filters, each of which is designed to meet the specific needs of a particular fuel system. Some common types of fuel filters include:

• Sediment filters, which are designed to remove large particles and debris from fuel. These filters may be made of paper, fiberglass, or other materials, and are typically used in gasoline or diesel fuel systems.
• Water separators, which are designed to remove water from fuel. These filters are commonly used in diesel fuel systems, where water can accumulate and cause corrosion or other problems.
• Carbon filters, which are designed to remove impurities and contaminants from fuel using activated carbon. These filters are often used in gasoline or diesel fuel systems, and may be used in conjunction with other types of filters.

Fuel filters are typically installed in the fuel line between the fuel tank and the engine, and are designed to be easily replaceable when they become clogged or dirty. It is important to regularly replace fuel filters to ensure that the fuel system is functioning properly and to prevent costly repairs or downtime.

In addition to their primary function of filtering fuel, fuel filters may also include features such as pressure regulators, which help to ensure that the correct amount of fuel is delivered to the engine, and anti-drainback valves, which prevent fuel from draining out of the filter when the engine is off.

Overall, fuel filters are an important part of any fuel system, and are essential for ensuring that fuel is clean and free of contaminants. Properly maintaining and replacing fuel filters can help to extend the lifespan of fuel system components, improve fuel efficiency, and reduce the risk of costly repairs or downtime.

A transportable diesel tank should be stored in a secondary containment area if it contains fuel as in most cases these are single skin.

These tanks are primarily designed for transporting fuel to a place of work to be completely discharged of fuel

There are many benefits to a Fuel Management System being installed.

The main benefit of the system is the pump security. The Fuel Management System allows you to add and remove users’ ability to use the pump as per your requirements.

The key fob system or the user licences system (B.SMART phone app) will give you control of who can use the system and eliminate the worry of unauthorised users for dispensing fuel.

By using these systems, it gives you the ability to add a user and stop a user from using the pump whenever you need to. If any key fobs or mobile phones go missing with approval to use the pump you can easily inactivate these to prevent the possibility of fuel going missing.

Another benefit this system has been the ability to shut off the pump when out of hours and holiday periods when no one will be on site. This is does very easily on the software on your desktop.

Another key benefit for the admin perspective will be when the users dispense fuel, the transactions are logged and transferred to the desktop software which will allow you to run reports. These reports are useful because they will show dates, times and litres dispensed so every litre can be accounted for. Any missing litres you will easily be able to check the report and find out why.
You can also add a reference option (such as registration number) for more information to what the fuel is being used for.

Lastly, this system also allows you to cap the usage for drivers. If you only require your driver to use 30 litres then you can assign the pump to cut out once 30 litres has been dispensed, and if you don't find it important for your user to see the litres dispensed you can turn this feature off (Good for companies who prefer the users to fill until full)

The difference between these units is the way you are able to access the unit.

The Piusi Cube 70MC Fuel Management System and the Piusi MC Box Management System are the range of fuel management systems that require user keys and a manager key to be able to extract the data.

This system requires each user to assisned a yellow key fob (This can be allocated to a person or registration number) - this will allow access and link the usage to the individual.

Once this data has been stored on the box the person incharge of extracting the data will use the manager key with the unit. Once the manager key has been been used with the box you will then take it to your computer and use it with the key fob reader.

The key fob reader will come with your software package and this will allow you to store your data and also collab and run reports.

The Piusi Cube MC B.SMART Fuel Management System and the Piusi MC Box B.Smart Fuel Management System are a range of systems that dont require any user key fobs. Instead these use a phone app and user licenses to allow access to the pump.

These systems are connect via bluetooth and uses the phones mobile data to record and store the data.

The B.Smart unit is a cloud based system and no software needs to be purchased to be able to store and view the data instead you log onto a website to find everything. There is no ongoing subscriptions fees for this unit and the website access is included in the cost of the unit.

If your tank is located in a place where wifi isnt available then your system is able to hotspot using a mobile phone to get the data to the cloud.

At Fuel Tank Shop, our diesel storage tanks are commonly manufactured from high-density polyethylene (HDPE) or cross-linked polyethylene (XLPE) due to their excellent chemical resistance and durability. These types of plastics are specifically chosen for their ability to withstand the corrosive nature of diesel fuel and provide a reliable storage solution. High-density polyethylene is known for its strength, impact resistance, and flexibility, making it a suitable material for manufacturing diesel tanks that can endure various conditions. Cross-linked polyethylene, on the other hand, offers enhanced resistance to temperature extremes and improved structural stability. This makes XLPE an excellent choice for diesel tanks exposed to fluctuating environmental conditions, ensuring they remain robust and reliable over time. Both HDPE and XLPE contribute to the overall longevity of the diesel tank by preventing degradation and maintaining their structural integrity.

These plastic materials are often moulded using rotational moulding or blow moulding techniques. Rotational moulding creates a one-piece tank without seams or joints, minimising the risk of leaks and ensuring a solid, durable container for diesel storage. The plastic used for diesel tanks is formulated with additives to provide protection against ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which is crucial, especially for outdoor tanks, as it prevents the material from becoming brittle and degrading when exposed to sunlight.

A fuel management system is a device or software application that is used to track and monitor fuel consumption and usage in vehicles, equipment, or machinery. It is designed to help businesses, fleet managers, and individuals better understand how much fuel is being used and where it is being used, in order to optimize fuel efficiency and reduce costs.

The system typically includes sensors that are installed on the vehicle or equipment to measure fuel consumption and usage, as well as a central control unit or software application that collects and processes this data. The data collected by the sensors is transmitted to the central control unit or software application in real-time, allowing users to track fuel usage and consumption in real-time.

The central control unit or software application includes a user interface, such as a dashboard or app, which provides real-time data and analytics on fuel usage and consumption. The user interface allows users to view fuel consumption data in various formats, such as graphs, charts, and reports. This data can be used to identify trends and patterns in fuel usage and consumption, and to identify areas where fuel efficiency can be improved.

Some fuel management systems also offer features such as alerts for low fuel levels, route optimization to reduce fuel consumption, and the ability to track fuel costs and compare them to budgeted amounts. These features can help businesses and individuals make more informed decisions about fuel usage, leading to significant cost savings over time.

In addition to tracking and monitoring fuel consumption, some fuel management systems also include features such as fuel theft prevention and fuel budgeting. Fuel theft prevention features can help businesses and individuals detect and prevent unauthorized fuel usage, which can lead to significant cost savings. Fuel budgeting features allow users to set budget limits for fuel usage and track fuel costs against these limits, helping to control fuel expenses and improve overall financial management.

Overall, a fuel management system is an essential tool for businesses, fleet managers, and individuals who want to optimize fuel efficiency, reduce costs, and improve overall financial management. It provides real-time data and analytics on fuel usage and consumption, and offers a range of features to help users make more informed decisions about fuel usage and improve overall fuel efficiency.

Yes, plastic diesel tanks can experience deterioration over time, but the extent of this degradation depends on various factors such as the quality of the tank’s material, environmental conditions, and maintenance practices. Polyethylene, commonly used in plastic diesel tanks, is known for its durability and resistance to corrosion. However, exposure to certain environmental elements, such as prolonged sunlight or extreme temperatures, can contribute to the gradual breakdown of the plastic.

UV radiation is one of the primary culprits for the deterioration of plastic tanks. Over time, sunlight can cause the material to become brittle and lose its structural integrity. To mitigate this, many of our plastic diesel tanks are manufactured with UV-resistant additives to prolong their lifespan. Regular inspection and application of UV protectants, if necessary, can further safeguard the tank against these environmental effects.

Environmental conditions, such as fluctuations in temperature and exposure to harsh chemicals, can also impact the longevity of plastic diesel tanks. Extreme temperature variations may lead to expansion and contraction, potentially causing stress on the tank walls. Additionally, contact with certain chemicals or fuels other than diesel may accelerate the deterioration process. Choosing a tank designed for compatibility with diesel fuel and adhering to proper usage guidelines can help mitigate these risks.

Routine maintenance plays a crucial role in preventing and addressing deterioration. Regular inspections for signs of cracks, leaks, or changes in the tank's structural integrity are essential. It's important to follow manufacturer recommendations for maintenance of our diesel tanks and address any issues promptly, such as applying sealants or replacing damaged components.

The answer to this question depends on several factors, including the quality of the diesel, the environment the tank is stored in, and the type of transfer tank being used. Generally speaking, diesel fuel stored in a transfer tank will last between six and twelve months. However, this time frame can vary depending on the factors listed previously. For example, if the diesel is of high quality and stored in an environment that is not prone to extreme climate changes, then the diesel may last up to twelve months. However, if the diesel is of lower quality and stored in a harsh environment, then it may only last for six months. Additionally, if the tank is not properly sealed, then the diesel may not last as long, as air can contaminate the fuel and cause it to deteriorate more quickly.

When it comes to selecting the right type of transfer tank for your diesel storage needs, we have several options available. Each type of tank will have its own pros and cons, and the best option for you will depend on your unique needs and budget. If you’d like any help choosing the right diesel transfer tank, contact our friendly team who will be happy to help.

Storing diesel in a steel tank offers durability and longevity, but the duration for which diesel can be stored depends on several factors. Generally, diesel can be stored in a well-maintained steel tank for an extended period, often up to 12 months or more, without significant degradation. However, the key to preserving the fuel quality lies in proper storage conditions, preventive measures, and regular maintenance of the tank.

One critical factor affecting diesel storage in a steel tank is the prevention of water contamination. Moisture can promote microbial growth and lead to fuel degradation. Well-designed steel tanks often incorporate features to minimise water ingress, such as effective sealing and proper tank positioning to avoid condensation. Periodic inspections for water accumulation and the use of water-absorbing filters contribute to maintaining fuel quality over time. Implementing protective coatings on the tank interior and exterior, such as epoxy or specialised anti-corrosion treatments, helps mitigate the impact of corrosive elements. Regular inspections to detect and address any signs of corrosion are essential for ensuring the structural integrity of the tank and preserving the quality of the stored diesel. Lower temperatures help slow down oxidation and microbial growth, contributing to the preservation of fuel quality. Adequate ventilation and insulation of the storage area can assist in maintaining a consistent temperature within the steel tank, reducing the risk of temperature-related degradation.

To maximise the duration for which diesel can be stored in a steel tank, it's crucial to adhere to recommended storage guidelines, conduct routine inspections, and implement preventive measures. By maintaining proper storage conditions, you can extend the storage life of diesel in a steel tank and ensure a reliable and consistent fuel supply when needed.

No. Unfortunately the pressure required to enable the flow meter to read accurately is not at a tolerance that the flow meter can record

Unfortunately the automatic nozzle requires a pressure of the fuel being pumped to operate the shut off mechanism.

A hand pump or gravity fed tank would not have the necessary pressure to enable this

The red diesel rebate has been a hot topic amongst many industries over the last year. However, after careful consideration earlier this year, the Chancellor and the government have decided to proceed with abolishing the use of red diesel from the 1st April 2022 in a number of sectors, to help reduce the impact that fossil fuels have on the planet. Specifically, their aim is to reduce commercial use of red diesel, especially in the plant and construction sectors, and to encourage the use of other fuels such as white diesel or alternative greener options. So how some industries will be affected and what do they need to know to prepare for the new legislation?

Restrictions on the use of red diesel come into force on 1st April 2022 for a range of industries including plant, construction, leisure, mining, quarrying, road maintenance and logistics. This means that there are less than 5 months to get ready to make sure that you comply with the new regulations from April. So here are a few things that you need to know:

• From 1 April 2022, Registered Dealers in Controlled Oils will need to flush their tanks and supply lines when switching a fuel tank from red to white diesel, so there is no trace of the rebated fuel.
• End users that are losing their red diesel entitlement will need to make sure that they run down their existing stocks and do not purchase red diesel from 1 April 2022.
• The government has recognized that some users such as data centres are holding large amounts of red diesel but may only use it for a few hours a year in case of emergency. So it has been decided that HMRC will investigate and decide if the user can provide enough evidence that they have not built up their stocks or taken red diesel after the rules changed.
• As the price of red diesel is a lot lower compared to the average price of white diesel, users will see an increase in how much they spend on fuel
• As white diesel is so much more expensive and also widely used by the public, it needs to be considered that a rise in fuel thefts may occur once the switch has been made, meaning those storing fuel on-site need to consider protecting their fuel, as well as controlling and monitoring its use amongst staff

Transport/Fleet and Plant Hire

These industries will no longer be able to fuel their vehicles on-site using red diesel, they must make the switch over to an alternative fuel. This will involve running down or removing red diesel from vehicles, machinery and/or fuel storage tanks. There’s a possibility that they will be able to sell back any excess stock of red diesel to fuel suppliers which will help towards funding the cost of replacing the fuel.

The cost of refuelling vehicles and machinery, or filling up storage tanks, will see an increase due to the difference in price between red diesel and alternative fuels such as white diesel. This will happen regardless of whether refuelling at a public petrol station or on-site using their own storage and dispensing equipment. One of the most important things that these industries need to consider is securing their site, any fuel storage tanks, and the vehicles or machinery such as diesel-powered chiller units on trucks, forklift trucks and mobile generators, to protect against theft, as well as unauthorized fuel dispensing

2. Engineers

As more industries will switch over from red diesel to alternative fuels, engineers will see an increase in jobs relating to fuel security and fuel management systems being required on-site or at business premises. This may require extra labour to implement these changes (depending on the size of the team), and extra training on products and installation (depending on the type of equipment being installed). Furthermore, it’s likely that you’ll also see an increase in call out jobs to assist with breakdowns, maintenance and further installs or changes to equipment.

 3. Fuel Suppliers

The increase in demand for white diesel and other alternative fuels that are more expensive might result in more customers contacting fuel suppliers about fuel security options and to find more information on how they can manage the fuel usage on their site. We believe that as industries are starting to switch over fuel suppliers may see a surge in enquiries for fuel management systems, gauging, fuel monitoring and security solutions. So, our technical and sales team will be on hand to support fuel suppliers offering expert product selection advice and helping their customers to find the right products that match their applications and requirements

With thanks to our supplier Centre Tank Services Limited

All the diesel dispensing tanks that we sell are bunded which is a term that literally means a `tank within a tank'. This is designed to keep the fuel safe in the very rare event should the inner tank split. The cabinet doors can be locked either with a key or in some instances the tank is supplied with a metal post which the customer can secure with their own padlock

Advanced diesel dispensing tanks can sometimes be offered or come with fuel management systems which would only allow authorized people with key fobs to dispense fuel

No. We are not able to install a diesel dispensing tank but there are companies out there that are able to install, service & decommission old tanks. Please contact us for details

Yes, diesel fuel can react with galvanised steel under certain conditions, posing potential issues with fuel quality and storage equipment. Galvanised steel is coated with a layer of zinc to protect it from corrosion, but diesel fuel, particularly ultra-low sulphur diesel (ULSD), contains compounds that can react with the zinc coating. Over time, this reaction may result in the formation of sediments or precipitates in the fuel, potentially leading to filter clogging and fuel system problems.

The reaction between diesel and galvanised steel is more likely to occur in the presence of water or moisture. If water is introduced into the fuel tank, it can accelerate the corrosion of the zinc coating, releasing zinc ions into the diesel fuel. These ions can then react with other components in the fuel, forming insoluble compounds that can contribute to filter plugging and compromise the efficiency of the fuel system.

To minimise the risk of diesel reacting with galvanised steel, it is advisable to prevent water ingress into the fuel storage system. Regularly inspect the tank for signs of water accumulation, ensure proper tank sealing, and consider installing water-absorbing filters to remove any moisture from the fuel. Additionally, using fuel additives designed to stabilise and improve the quality of stored diesel can help mitigate potential reactions with the galvanised steel. It's essential to follow best practices for fuel storage and maintenance, including routine inspections, to identify and address any signs of corrosion or degradation in the storage tank.

No, as an environmentally responsible supplier we do not supply these kits, due to the high risk of accidental damage / discharge associated with their use. Additionally, at many installations today their continued use is illegal. If you require a tank to store diesel fuel for vehicular use, we would advise you consider a Harlequin Fuel Station, or Fuel Point For BioDiesel applications, Harlequin BioFuel Stations are recommended for BioDiesel blends of up to B100. Alternatively, for connection to remote pedestal type dispensing units, Harlequin's BioBund range is ideal. Please note that all BioDiesel tanks supplied by Tanks.ie are suitable only for use with BioDiesel produced in accordance with European Standards.

A single phase (domestic 240v mains) power supply is required and always recommended being connected to a Residual Current Device (RCD) fitted at the connection point to the power supply. All mains electrical installations must only be undertaken by a qualified electrician and must be inspected and tested regularly in accordance with statutory requirements. Alternatively an electrician can wire up to a standard 3 pin plug and would not affect warranty.

Diesel (D) to British Standard BS2869. Additionally, the diesel dispensing tanks we sell are also suitable for the storage and dispensing of Bio-Diesel with a bio-element of up to 5% concentration.

No. The pumps and ancillary equipment fitted to these products are suitable only for use with Diesel. Dispensing a non-approved fuel from this equipment could result in serious injury or death.

No. Any equipment that is required to be sold would require a Weights & Measures certificate. All the diesel dispensing tanks we sell do not have certified equipment

No. The 12v pumps would come supplied with battery cables and crocodile clips to connect to a battery outside of the tank. We are unable to provide batteries.

No. These tanks would not have the correct type of pump and AdBlue solution requires stainless steel connectors which are not used in diesel tanks

No. The diesel dispensing tanks that we sell, excluding the CEMO UNI & MULTI tank range, are assembled at the factory. Once delivered, the customer simply positions the tank, connects to the electrical supply and fill with diesel and the tank is ready to use