Fuel Tanks Basics

Know the available options and requirements before you buy fuel tanks for your business

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.

 

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.
Try: 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.
Try: 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.
Try: 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.

 

• 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.

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