Steel Tanks

Steel fuel storage tanks are generally thought of as a longer-lasting, more durable alternative to plastic tanks – though each material has its pros and cons. Steel’s natural resistance to damaging factors such as UV exposure, temperature change, and accidental damage assist greatly in extending its expected lifespan beyond the expected lifespan of most other fuel and oil containers, with most lasting up to or beyond 20 years.

Of course, the lifespan of a steel tank is highly dependent on correct maintenance, installation location, base quality, and the quality of steel used in the construction of the tank. A high-quality tank inspected and maintained on a regular basis will last for a lengthy period of time.

Whether or not a steel or plastic oil or fuel tank is ‘better’ generally depends on the individual needs of their users. Whilst steel tanks offer a much higher top capacity, increased durability, further protection against theft through drilling, and a longer lifespan (if maintained correctly), plastic tanks are more easily moved, cheaper to purchase and install, and are less vulnerable to leakage when produced in a seamless, bunded design.

Whilst it is important to ensure that a plastic tank is somewhat protected from the elements and UV exposure depending on the type of plastic it is made from, steel tanks must be maintained in the form of painting or treatment in order to prevent rusting. Both types of tank must be inspected on a regular basis to ensure any signs of damage or leakage are caught early.

Whilst steel storage tanks are known to be more robust than their plastic counterparts, they can be vulnerable to corrosion – primarily caused by heat, water, and condensation – all of which can result in microbial growth, the main cause of steel tank corrosion. This is particularly prevalent in the storage of diesel or biodiesel.

It is important to avoid corrosion where possible, as it may negatively impact tank integrity, and cause oil spillage, especially in single skin tanks. Ensure your tank is inspected on a regular basis, and that any water present is removed. Steel tanks can be painted or coated with protective barriers in order to help prevent corrosion – many manufacturers supply this feature as a standard, but some tanks will require re-painting as time goes on.

The price of a steel fuel storage tank will vary depending on the size, type, and features required.  Whilst single skin tanks tend to be the least expensive steel offering on the market, some with enhanced safety features may be listed at a higher price point than a small bunded steel fuel tank.

Generally, single skin tanks are less expensive than bunded tanks, with the price increasing with size or capacity. RPM fuel’s range of steel fuel storage tanks ranges from approximately £395 to £4300 in accordance with the above factors. In addition to this, RPM fuels provide bespoke steel fuel tanks constructed to your exact requirements. Estimated prices for these tanks will be provided upon consultation.

Whilst diesel itself is not corrosive to metal (including steel, the most commonly used metal in storage tanks sold worldwide), the presence of conductive materials in it can lead to corrosion. The introduction of water to fuel commonly results in microbial growth, particularly in the case of diesel and biodiesel. This microbial growth both compromises the quality of the fuel and corrodes its storage container. This issue can be resolved by ensuring the integrity of your tank’s lids, caps, and pipes, conducting regular inspections, and removing water or contaminated fuel at the first opportunity.

It is important to note that some additives, when mixed with fuel, may result in corrosion. It is important to check the compatibility of any additive or substance to be added to stored fuel with your tank and fuel type to avoid this.

Bunded oil tanks are a commonly used, and highly recommended form of oil storage, offering a higher level of protection against leakage than ‘single skin’ tanks through their ‘second skin’ design. Bunded tanks, whether steel or plastic, generally consist of an inner tank (used to store the fuel) and an outer tank (which acts as a protective seal in the event of spillage). The design of bunded fuel tanks prevents fuel loss and extensive environmental damage in the event of a spillage.

In addition to this, bunded tanks are thought to add an extra layer of security against thieves using a ‘drilling’ method to siphon oil, and be further resistant to the elements. The above is especially true in the case of steel fuel storage tanks, which are particularly durable.

Bunded tanks are a legal requirement at all commercial and industrial premises storing oil in the UK and Channel Islands, but are commonly used domestically.

It is legal to purchase single skin oil tanks, both steel and plastic, in the UK. However, there are strict regulations on exactly how and where single skin oil or fuel tanks of any size or specification may be installed – making them illegal where placed and used against regulations. RPM Fuels highly recommend fully reviewing the Control of Pollution (Oil Storage) (England) Regulations 2001, which may be found on the GOV UK website.

Notable restrictions include;

• All single skin tanks must have a capacity of fewer than 2500 litres
• The tank must not be within 10 metres of controlled water
• The tank cannot be located within 50 metres of a drinking water source
• The tank must not be located be installed over hard ground allowing for oil run off to controlled water in the event of a leak or spill
• The tank must be accessible for inspection and refilling at all times
• The tank cannot supply more than a single family dwelling

Diesel will go off over time, lasting, on average, between 6 to 12 months in a typical storage situation. When stored particularly effectively, or with an additive, this storage life may be extended beyond the 12-month mark.  In order to lengthen the lifespan of diesel stored in a steel tank, precautions must be taken to ensure no water is present in the tank, that the fuel is kept relatively cool, and that the tank is properly maintained. Inspections should be made on a regular basis to ensure these conditions are being met.

Bulk storage tanks, also known as containers, are purpose-built vessels used to store a high volume of fuel, usually for an extended period of time. Bulk fuel storage is commonly used in domestic (heating), agricultural, and commercial (haulage and transportation) fields. Bulk storage is most commonly used to store fuel prior to or during use, but may also be used to store fuel waste products prior to disposal. 

Bulk storage can a be highly cost-efficient fuel storage option, lending itself to the storage of oil, diesel, and non potable water. Whilst the majority of high capacity bulk containers are constructed with steel, smaller options (approximately 6500 litres and below) are available in a plastic format.

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.