Fuel Tank Types

A double-walled fuel tank – though often thought of as a bunded fuel tank, is simply a fuel tank with the added benefit of having a double layer of wall protection. Unless the space between the first and second wall can hold at least 110% of the inner tank’s capacity, a double-walled tank cannot be classed as bunded, and so, falls under many of the same restrictions a single skin tank would be subject to.

It is highly recommended that those looking for a tank with a safe containment method or extra protection choose a bunded tank over a double-walled tank. Bunded tanks offer easier maintenance, are more compliant with current regulations, and offer more effective protection against spills.

There is no singular ‘best’ domestic fuel tank. Those looking for a fuel containment unit for their home should take into consideration their individual requirements relating to size, durability, budget, site restrictions, usage, and features.

The majority of fuel and oil tanks on the domestic market are bunded. . These tanks essentially consist of a tank within a tank – whilst their inner tank acts primarily to hold fuel, their secondary shell allows for the safe collection of any oil released as a result of a leak. The inclusion of a secondary containment tank (seen in all bunded oil tank designs) allows for the containment of any leaks. In addition to this, the secure design of bunded oil tanks are thought to help prevent fuel theft, and reduce wear and tear through weather and exposure. Bunded tanks are often thought of as the best option for both domestic and commercial fuel and oil tanks, but do sit at a higher price point than their single-skin counterparts, which can be just as effective in single-family dwellings, but are more restricted in where they can be placed.

Further points to consider include tank material, mainly plastic (cheaper and more common)versus steel (more expensive, but more durable)m and tank format.

All farms or agricultural operations storing in excess of 1500 litres (total) of fuel or oil must comply with UK SSAFO (Storing silage, slurry and agricultural fuel oil) regulations. Exceptions to this may apply to any oil storage put in place prior to 1991.

Regulatory standards set out within SSAFO include;

• Tanks used to store fuel or oil must meet ISO 9000 specifications
• All tanks must be bunded
• All bunds must have a life expectancy of at least 20 years with maintenance

In addition to this, all new or enlarged oil or fuel storage systems must be reported to SSAFO 14 days prior to the start of construction.

Waste oil tanks are an excellent way to store waste oil prior to its disposal or removal from site. Though typically smaller than oil or fuel storage tanks, waste oil tanks are available in both bunded and single skin formats. RPM Fuels currently stock a large range of plastic bunded waste oil tanks, manufactured by Harlequin.

After storage in a waste oil tank, waste oil may be disposed of in multiple ways, including sending it to a licensed disposal site, such as a garage, or waste disposal facility permitted to handle oil and fuels.

Larger amounts of generator fuel stored for an extended period of time should be kept within a purpose-built fuel storage tank. High-quality tanks, such a those offered by RPM Fuels allow for the creation of an ideal environment for fuel storage when installed and maintained correctly, helping prevent the growth of microbes, and oxidation.

A great range of diesel generator fuel tanks from RPM Fuels & Tanks for the safe and environmentally sound storage of red and white diesel available in a variety of generator fuel tank capacities, from 250 to 3000 litres. The majority of these tanks are equipped with a generator feed, and are bunded in design.

Oil tanks, when buried, are usually installed around 0.5 – 1m underground (though an OFTEC registered engineer will be able to advise in accordance with your individual situation), with their access points being a rising pipe known as a ‘fill pipe’. Fill pipes are typically constructed of steel of some variety, and fitted with a secure cap, in order to prevent contamination and theft.

OFTEC registered tank installers will work to both UK regulation, and to manufacturer’s regulations when installing your tank, and calculating how deep it should be buried.

Purpose-built fuel storage tanks are the key to long term fuel storage at home – especially in bulk quantities. All oils and fuels last best when stored in a secure, watertight environment. The addition of suitable additives may further extend the shelf life of a correctly stored fuel or oil.

Diesel can be stored for anywhere between 3 and 12 months. In order to ensure it lasts, the stored fuel must be kept at a relatively cool temperature, and free from water. The addition of water to any fuel or oil can result in the growth of microbes, which can destroy fuel quality, and even cause tank corrosion.

High quality, well-maintained oil, and fuel tanks provide the perfect environment for long term diesel storage.

For those looking to transport quantities of diesel between 100 and 3000 litres, towable bowsers are an excellent piece of equipment. Typically composed of a cylindrical steel diesel tank mounted on a single, or double axel, bowsers allow for the easy movement of diesel across construction sites, within event areas, and on public highways (UN approved models only).

Those looking to transport bulk quantities of diesel above 3000 litres may want to consider looking into the hire of a tanker – the standard model of which can carry up to 36,000 litres. An OFTEC consult will be able to provide further information relating to tanker hire.

All water tanks marked ‘potable’ and sold on a regulated basis in the UK today are safe to drink from – so long as they are installed and maintained correctly.

Before the introduction of modern regulations, many ‘potable’ water tanks were constructed of unsuitable materials such as galvanised iron, which could result in the contamination of water over time. Now, tanks are most commonly constructed from a high or medium density polyethylene or plastic – making water stored within them safe for consumption.

Further regulations put in place to ensure the safety of water tanks on the market today include size guidelines (water tanks too large for the amount of water consumed do not allow for frequent replenishment with fresh water), and a general requirement for close-fitting covers, tight, securely fastening lids, screened vents, and insulation in any new designs.

Red diesel is a low tax diesel, for off-road use only. It is dyed red to allow for the identification of illegal use.

As red diesel is not for use on public roads, it is most commonly used in agriculture, civil engineering, construction, and similar industries to power off-road machinery and vehicles. This commonly includes tractors, plant machinery, forklifts, and cranes. In addition to this, red diesel may also be used to heat commercial and industrial spaces and can power backup generators.