Steps In Cleaning A Diesel Storage Tank

Diesel is a very popular type of fuel that is used for many different purposes. Although it is commonly used in school and public buses, it is also used in many boats, trucks, trains and nearly all modes of transportation. Moreover, it is also used in other machines, like generators. That said, storing diesel is a very common practice. However, the storage tank will need regular cleaning to avoid contaminating the tank.

What You Need to Know?

If a diesel storage tank does not undergo regular cleaning, the tank becomes susceptible to contaminations. This is often caused by petroleum-eating microorganisms. Simply washing the tank will not be enough, since the microbes feed on water. Thus cleaning a tank will vary with water contamination at the pump, humidity and water infiltration into the fuel tanks. Preventing contaminations heavily relies on proper treatment, which is done with a biocide agent. Moreover, a fuel-polisher will also be needed, as they can eliminate tank cleaning altogether. 

Unlike polyethylene, using a steel fuel storage tank will require caution against rust, which is a major safety problem. The diesel storage wizards at Ablesales explain that poly tanks are safe and simple solutions for diesel transfer. They never rust, which instantly removes a safety hazard. Moreover, poly tanks are lightweight and can easily be transferred. This makes them especially convenient for regular travelers. 

Items You Will Need

Before you start cleaning your diesel storage tank, you will need a few things. They are:

• Biocide Product
• Water
• Dishwashing Detergent (preferably with oil-cutting ability)
• Scrubbing Material
• Diesel Fuel Pump
• In-line Filter With a Water Separator

How to Clean Your Tank

Properly cleaning your tank is important for avoiding contaminations to your fuel, tank or both. Here are the steps for diesel storage cleaning:

Step 1 – Biocide Product Treatment

First, you will need to measure the amount of fuel that is in your storage tank. Based on the amount, you will measure a proportionate dosage of the biocide product. This will vary depending on the manufacturer’s instructions, so make sure to refer back to them. After obtaining the appropriate measure, apply the biocide treatment.

Step 2 – Positive-Displacement Pump

After applying the biocide product, you will be using a positive displacement pump. This tool will need to be appropriate for use with diesel fuel. You need to extract the fuel out of the tank and pour it into a fuel container. If the tank’s neck has an anti-siphon attached, remove it and proceed by inserting the hose directly into the tank. 

Step 3 – Wash the Tank

Before you start washing the tank, make sure that every last drop of fuel is removed. Proceed by pouring water into the tank. However, since water on its own is ineffective, you will need to add scrubbing materials. This can include things like crumbs of safety glass, which increases the effectiveness of this technique. Continue by adding liquid soap, but make sure it includes petroleum-cutting properties since removing petrol with a normal detergent can be very difficult. Start shaking the mixture as hard as you can, to ensure that it has settled in.

Step 4 – Rinse the Tank

Now that you have thoroughly shaken the mixture in the tank, you will need to rinse it out from the waste that has been removed. Poor in gallons of water and thoroughly wash the tank of any scrubbing material or loose debris. Poor it all out and wait for the tank to dry.

Step 5 – In-Line Fuel Filter

After the tank has dried up, you will need to install an in-line fuel filter. However, you must make sure it is a 30-micron filter. You will be using a water separator. The in-line fuel filter will go into the output hose of the pump. After this is done, proceed by pumping the diesel back into your tank. As the tank fills up, you will need to monitor the water trap and filter. The filter will need changing and the water trap will require emptying. Finally, make sure the pickup hose is held near to the bottom of the container, which is to prevent the filter from clogging too quickly.

Cleaning a diesel storage tank is an intricate process that will require your undivided attention. Otherwise, contamination may occur, and the tank may need to change. Approach each step with mindfulness and make sure the waste has been entirely disposed of. However, if you are looking for a permanent solution, start by acquiring a poly tank. They are safe and easy to use.