Fuel tanks can be a great asset to a business that requires any form of transportation. From airplanes or factory machinery to a delivery fleet or the pickup trucks for your construction crew, all of these need fuel to keep your business running. And fuel isn’t always readily available the moment employees need it; that is, unless you purchase something like diesel fuel tanks to keep on site.

Fuel transfer tanks will save your business time and money. As you consider the applicable uses for your business, and what type of tank to purchase, keep in mind the following fuel tanks basics:

1. Industrial fuel tanks are ideal for storing extremely large quantities of fuel.

2. There are local and federal regulations regarding the use of fuel storage tanks.

3. Portable diesel fuel tanks are ideal for smaller businesses or short-term locations.

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Decide between above-ground or underground fuel tanks

Both above-ground and underground fuel storage tanks are great for large industries such as airports, fleet hubs and warehouses, because they can store large quantities of fuel. While the recommendation is generally to go with above-ground tanks so that you limit contamination possibilities, underground tanks manufactured today are increasingly safe. If you choose an underground fuel system, make sure that the coating on the tanks provides proven long-term protection from corrosive agents. It's a good idea to obtain a long-term warranty against corrosion as well.

I recommend: Obtain full description details of the above-ground fuel tanks offered by Convault, including the manufacturing process and feature details. If your need is only short term, consider renting fuel tanks, rather than purchasing, from companies like Aggreko.

Meet all regulations and ordinances for the usage of fuel tanks

Regardless of the type of fuel tank you choose, all of them have environmental regulations, federal operation requirements and city or county placement ordinances that you must meet. Most regulations apply to above-ground and underground units. Contact your local business office for information on city and county ordinances and zoning requirements for fuel tank placement and usage.

I recommend: J&D Mechanical Industries provides detailed information on federal regulations for the use of underground fuel storage tanks. To determine if EPA regulations apply to the fuel tanks you’re using, access the storage tanks guide on The Idaho Association of Soil Conservation Districts.

Consider portable fuel transfer tanks for smaller jobs

Smaller, more portable options include truck-mounted fuel tanks, collapsible fuel tanks and bladder fuel containers. Most hold no more than a few hundred gallons of fuel, which makes them useful as on-board fuel reserves in case employees are on empty and have no other fill-up options. Although they are smaller and sometimes collapsible, they are still reliable in their resistance to corrosion and leaks.

I recommend: Visit Justia.com for detailed information on U.S. Department of Transportation HazMat regulations for portable packaging containers. Specifically, subparts H, J, N and O apply to the manufacturing and usage of intermediate bulk containers (IBCs), which include truck-mounted fuel tanks. Examine sizes and specifications of various portable fuel tanks at The Tank Depot.

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Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Metal and plastic fuel tanks aren't the only options. A fuel-resistant fabric, much like rubber, is the makeup for some collapsible fuel tanks, also known as bladder tanks. This allows for the ability to literally squeeze every drop of fuel from the contents and then store the empty tank in a very small space. They are most widely used for marine purposes but have a broader range for temporary fuel storage on land.

Converting your vehicle or commercial fleet to biodiesel or another alternative fuel often requires that you purchase fuel tanks for storage. In addition, truck mounted fuel tanks are becoming more popular as extra storage for those who make their own fuels.

Before you purchase industrial fuel tanks for your business site or backyard, there are some things you should research:

1. Research environmental regulations, city and county ordinances. They will dictate tank placement, size, and any visual screens or safety precautions that you'll need, depending on the fuel you're storing.

2. Calculate your actual storage needs. A fleet of 10 tractor-trailer rigs with 90-gallon fuel tanks will require much larger, industrial fuel tanks than a fleet of five tow trucks.

3. Review your company's budget. It may mean the difference between custom collapsible fuel tanks and a good quality, used fuel storage tank.

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Consider your fuel's storage requirements

Biodiesel and ethanol can't be stored in or dispensed from typical diesel fuel tanks without some modifications, according to experts at Fitzsimmons Systems. Aluminum nozzles, pumps, meters, drop tubes, and overfill valves should be nickel plated. The fill adaptor should be stainless steel, since nickel would wear excessively. Certain types of rubber seals and gaskets need replacing to handle alternative fuels. If your E85 fuel blend contains more than 15% alcohol, ask your local fire marshal for approval when you find a dispensing tank. The fuel's corrosive nature can compromise dispensing systems.

I recommend: Request quotes and information from Fitzsimmons Systems, Inc., and Core Engineered Solutions, both fuel tanks suppliers.

Calculate desired storage capacity and logistics before you buy fuel tanks

Truck mounted storage tanks may serve your fleet well enough if you have onsite fuel production and just a few vehicles. Consider buying either collapsible fuel tanks or arranging for fuel transfer tanks rental when you need them.

I recommend: Buy fuel bladders for most any application from Interstate Products, Inc. You may be able to find diesel fuel tanks rentals from Aggreko.

Buy fuel storage tanks and dispensing systems within budget

Truck mounted fuel tanks and fuel transfer tanks are a thrifty storage solution, but not always practical. If you need a more permanent solution, custom alternative fuel storage systems will cost from $3,000 to $25,000, depending on the tank capacity. Used tanks may work for you if they've held the same type fuel previously.

I recommend: Compare storage tank solutions using the JME Sales online catalog, and use the search feature at ThomasNet to find used tanks.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Biodiesel has a solvent effect and should not be stored in tanks previously used for long-term diesel storage, due to its tendency to release particulate matter into the fuel. When you buy used fuel tanks, ask what fuel -- and what formula of that fuel -- they've stored before.
• •  If you'll be storing biodiesel on your site in a large tank, factor a monthly biocide treatment into your budget, about $30 per 1,000 gallons. Large industrial gas tanks hold moist air and promote bacterial growth in biodiesel.

Fuel tanks provide convenient and easy access to fuel reserves for various industries. Having onsite fueling capabilities means that your employees will save time by refueling the moment they need to, thus getting more work time and saving you money. Additionally, more savings are possible when you purchase fuel in large quantities to fill your onsite fuel tanks.

While the initial investment may be large, the overall savings and convenience will make the purchase worthwhile. Consider the following advantages of using fuel tanks:

1. Marine collapsible fuel tanks mean that none of your employees will be stuck out on the water without fuel.

2. Buy fuel tanks for your crew’s pickup trucks so that they always have reliable reserves out on the road.

3. Know what to do in the event of a leak from industrial fuel tanks.

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Use collapsible fuel tanks on your boat decks

Businesses that require the use of a boat over long distances can prevent the possibility of running out of fuel by using collapsible bladder fuel tanks. These reserve tanks are often puncture and impact-resistant, resist corrosion and won't explode. Secure a bladder tank in place with a cargo net or tie-down kit when in use. Then, if you run out of fuel while providing an aquatic tour or fishing for Maine lobster, transfer the fuel in your bladder tank to the boats fuel tank. You can easily transfer every drop by rolling the tank until it's empty.

I recommend: Visit Cyber Bridge Marine for answers to common questions about collapsible plastic fuel tanks. Interstate Products lists a variety of other uses for bladder fuel tanks, including oil spill cleanup.

Equip your crew with truck-mounted fuel tanks

Construction workers, towing services and delivery services are all ideal industries in which you may need to have fuel reserves handy. In-bed fuel storage tanks are a great way for your employees to always have access to fuel. Mount the tank next to the cab in the pickup bed, positioning the opening directly over the vehicle's fuel door for easy fuel transfer. Additionally, some fuel tank manufacturers provide replacement fuel systems for certain pickup trucks, should the need arise.

I recommend: There are various federal and state regulations that you must meet in order to have a portable diesel fuel tanks mounted in a truck bed. Visit Transfer Flow for information on legal requirements. Should you need to replace the fuel system in a pickup truck, Expert Village has a helpful video to walk you through the process of removing the damaged tank.

Prepare for emergencies when using fuel tanks of any kind

Regardless of how many precautions you take, there is always the possibility that your fuel tank will leak. If underground fuel systems leak, then the contents will likely contaminate ground water. Businesses in the marine industry should know what to do if their fuel reserves leak into the ocean or river. Consider keeping oil eradicators on hand at all times. These foam mats are water-resistant but contain dormant microbes that become active when in contact with oil or fuel and eat (or soak) it up. There are other products available that provide similar spill solutions.

I recommend: Visit the EPA Underground Storage Tanks (UST) website for tips and advice on complying with federal UST regulations to help prevent spills and contamination. Clean Water Solutions provides a variety of oil eradicators to choose from. The product provided by RTA Systems is a great solution to fuel spills on hard surfaces, such as asphalt.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  When considering the use of large above-ground or underground fuel transfer tanks, keep in mind that there are regulations in place to help protect from ground contamination. You will need to meet all state and federal requirements and local ordinances in order to use this type of fuel storage system.

There are many factors that affect the manufacturing of a fuel tank. The type of fuel, the capacity the tank needs to hold and the location where the tank will be all play a role in how the manufacturer makes the tank. With fuel tanks, key terms can help you determine the best storage option. For example, if you live near salt water, you may need to look for a special protective coating to prevent the salt from corroding the fuel tank, especially if you opt for an above-ground fuel tank.

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Diesel fuel tanks

You'll see most diesel fuel tanks on semi trucks. Manufacturers design these tanks specifically to handle the properties of diesel fuel.

I recommend: View examples of diesel fuel tanks manufactured by Alumitank, and take note of the location for the tanks on the different types of trucks.

Above-ground fuel tank

There are two main categories for fuel tanks: above-ground and underground. An above-ground fuel tank holds a large capacity of fuel, and you'll find it located above the ground. Most above-ground fuel tanks are lightweight and easy to transport. Underground fuel tanks require more safety precautions than above-ground ones.

I recommend: Check out the pictures of different styles of above-ground fuel tanks from Envirosafe.

Contamination possibilities

Fuel tanks have the possibility of becoming contaminated by the substances near the tank, just like water supplies. In the case of fuel tanks, water can contaminate the fuel. Phase separation is an indication of a contaminate in the fuel.

I recommend: Fuel-Testers provides information on testing for contamination possibilities and details a schedule of when to test.

Corrosive agent

A corrosive agent is any substance that can cause rust or corrosion. In order to prevent corrosion, most fuel tanks have a protective coating. Akalines, acid and salts are among the most common corrosive agents. Depending on the location of the fuel tank, it may be more susceptible to certain corrosive agents.

I recommend: Sanchem provides information on its NO-OX-ID corrosion protection. It provides details for how the protection works against specific corrosive agents.

UL standards

Many fuel tank manufacturers will advertise their products as meeting UL standards. Underwriters Laboratories is an organization responsible for developing safety standards. Companies who fulfill the requirements outlined by Underwriters Laboratories can claim to be in compliance with UL standards.

I recommend: Learn more about UL standards at the website for Underwriters Laboratories.

Codes, regulations, standards

Aside from the standards established by the Underwriters Laboratories, fuel tank manufacturers must comply with state and federal codes and regulations regarding fuel tanks. These vary by state, but generally manufacturers must meet the standards for environmental protection and fire safety.

I recommend: The University of the State of New York's State Education Department offers rules and regulations regarding fuel tanks.