Bulk fuel storage tanks are a vital component of many industries, including agriculture, construction, and transportation. These tanks provide a safe and reliable way to store large amounts of fuel, ensuring that operations can continue without interruption. But with so many different types of fuel storage tanks available, choosing the right one for your business can be a daunting task.
That’s where we come in! In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at the various types of bulk fuel storage tanks, their unique features, and their specific uses. Whether you’re in the market for a new tank or simply looking to upgrade your existing one, our goal is to provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision in purchasing fuel storage tanks.
And when it comes to high-quality fuel storage solutions, there’s no better provider than Genset Hire and Sales Australia. With years of experience and a wide range of products available, we are your go-to choice for businesses across the country. So, let’s dive in and explore the world of bulk fuel storage tanks!
1. Aboveground Storage Tanks (ASTs)
ASTs are the most common type of bulk fuel storage tanks used in Australia. They are typically constructed from steel and can hold as much as 200,000 litres. These tanks are placed above the ground and come in various shapes and sizes, like horizontal, vertical, and rectangular.
Usage:
Aboveground Storage Tanks (ASTs) are widely utilised for holding an assortment of fuels such as petrol, diesel, and aviation fuel among other petroleum products. ASTs are preferred over underground tanks in many applications because they are easier to install, maintain, and inspect. Moreover, ASTs are usually more cost-effective than underground tanks because they do not require excavation or special techniques.
ASTs are commonly used in the following applications:
Fuel storage for retail service stations
Retail service stations often employ Aboveground Storage Tanks (ASTs) to hold fuel for distribution to customers, along with Underground Storage Tanks (USTs), which are used by service stations to store grades and quantities of fuel.
Fuel storage for commercial and industrial applications
Commercial facilities such as businesses and factories employ ASTs to stockpile fuel for their internal consumption. These tanks may be used to fuel equipment, machinery, and vehicles.
Emergency fuel storage
ASTs can be used to store emergency fuel supplies for use during power outages, natural disasters, or other emergencies. Emergency fuel tanks may be located at hospitals, government buildings, or other critical infrastructure.
Fuel storage for aviation applications
ASTs are used to store aviation fuel for use in airports and other aviation facilities. These tanks must comply with strict safety standards and be designed to prevent fuel contamination and spills.
Storage for agricultural applications
ASTs are used to store fuel for agricultural applications, such as powering tractors, harvesters, and other machinery. These tanks may be on farms or in rural areas where access to fuel is limited.
It’s important to note that the design, construction, and maintenance of ASTs must comply with strict regulations and guidelines to prevent environmental contamination and ensure public safety. These regulations may include requirements for tank material, leak detection, secondary containment, and spill prevention measures.
2. Underground Storage Tanks (USTs)
Underground Storage Tanks (USTs) are commonly constructed from materials such as steel, concrete, or fibreglass, and are intended to store large amounts of fuel underground. USTs are utilised where there is limited space above ground or when it is necessary to conceal the tanks for aesthetic reasons. Proper installation and maintenance of USTs are critical to prevent leaks and environmental pollution.
Usage:
USTs are large containers that are buried underground and used to store various types of liquids, such as petroleum, chemicals, and hazardous waste. These tanks are commonly used in commercial and industrial settings to store fuel for vehicles, heating, and equipment.
Here are some common applications for USTs:
Fuel storage for retail service stations
Retail service stations often utilise a combination of Underground Storage Tanks (USTs) and Aboveground Storage Tanks (ASTs) to store and dispense fuel to customers. USTs are used for storing larger volumes of fuel, while ASTs are reserved for smaller quantities.
Fuel storage for commercial and industrial applications
Businesses, factories, and other commercial facilities often use Underground Storage Tanks (USTs) to store fuel for their on-site use. These tanks can provide fuel for equipment, machinery, and vehicles.
Fuel storage for emergency backup generators
USTs can be used to store emergency fuel supplies for backup generators at hospitals, data centres, and other critical facilities. These tanks may be required to comply with specific regulations related to emergency fuel storage.
Fuel storage for agricultural applications
USTs serve as fuel storage containers for agricultural purposes, such as the powering of tractors, harvesters, and other machinery. These tanks are often used in rural areas and on farms where fuel accessibility is restricted.
In Australia, regulations and guidelines have been established to ensure the safe use of USTs. These requirements may include the use of specific tank materials, leak detection systems, secondary containment measures, and spill prevention protocols. Periodic inspections and testing may also be required to ensure compliance with safety standards and regulations. It is important for those who use USTs to adhere to these guidelines and regulations to prevent negative impacts on the environment and public health.
3. Portable Storage Tanks
Portable storage tanks are typically smaller than ASTs or USTs, with a holding capacity ranging from 100 to 10,000 litres. These tanks are utilised for temporarily storing fuel at remote locations such as mining operations, construction sites, or military bases. Portable tanks are made of steel or polyethylene and may come equipped with dispensing tools like pumps and metres.
Usage:
Portable storage tanks are commonly used for storing and transporting fuels, such as gasoline or diesel, to different locations. They are also used in industries such as agriculture, construction, and mining for storing water, chemicals, and other liquids. Portable tanks can be easily moved from one location to another, making them a convenient solution for temporary storage needs.
Here are some common applications for portable storage tanks:
Fuel storage at construction sites
Portable tanks are often used at construction sites to store fuel for generators, heavy equipment, and vehicles. The tanks are portable, which allows them to be easily moved around the job site as needed.
Fuel storage for mining operations
Portable tanks may be used at mining sites to store fuel for use in mining equipment, such as drills, bulldozers, and trucks.
Fuel storage for farming and agriculture
Portable tanks may be used on farms and other agricultural sites to store fuel for use in tractors, combines, and other equipment.
Fuel storage for emergency response
In emergency response scenarios like power outages or natural disasters, portable tanks can be used to store fuel. This fuel can then be used as needed.
Fuel storage for remote locations
Portable tanks can be used in remote areas, such as mining operations, construction sites, or military bases, where the availability of fuel is limited.
Portable storage tanks may be equipped with pumps, meters, and other dispensing equipment, and must comply with safety regulations related to storage and dispensing of fuel.
4. Intermediate Bulk Containers (IBCs)
Intermediate Bulk Containers (IBCs) are transportable tanks that have the capacity to hold up to 1,000 litres of fuel. These containers are often used by farmers, small construction companies, and landscapers for storing and transporting fuel in small amounts. IBCs can be made of plastic or steel materials and come equipped with fittings and valves that are used for dispensing fuel.
Usage:
The primary use of IBCs is to transport and store bulk liquids, such as diesel, kerosene, and petrol. These containers are quite large and have a capacity of 500 to 1,000 litres. The materials used to make IBCs typically include either plastic or metal, and they are designed to be durable and long-lasting.
Here are some common applications for IBCs:
Fuel storage and transportation
IBCs are commonly used for transporting and storing fuel between different locations. This can involve delivering fuel to far-off destinations or keeping it on-hand at a facility for utilisation in machinery, automobiles, or emergency power generators.
Chemical storage and transportation
IBCs are versatile and can be used for the safe storage and transportation of different types of chemicals, including those that are considered hazardous.
Food and beverage storage and transportation
IBCs are used for storing and transporting liquids used in the food and beverage industry, such as juices, syrups, and wines.
Water storage and transportation
IBCs may be used for storing and transporting potable or non-potable water, such as in emergency response situations or for use in agriculture or industry.
IBCs are designed to be easily moved using a forklift or pallet jack and may be stacked for efficient storage. They may be equipped with pumps or dispensing equipment for easy access to the stored liquids. It’s important to note that IBCs must comply with regulations related to the storage and transportation of hazardous materials and must be properly labeled and handled to ensure safe use.
It’s important to note that there are also regulations and guidelines for the type of tanks that can be used to store specific types of fuel. For example, tanks used to store diesel fuel must comply with different standards than those used to store petrol or aviation fuel.
Choose Genset Hire and Sales Australia for Reliable and Durable Bulk Fuel Storage Tanks!
Do you need a reliable and durable fuel storage tank? Look no further than Genset Hire and Sales Australia! Our tanks are built with the highest quality materials and designed to withstand even the toughest conditions.
We understand that choosing the right bulk fuel storage tank is a critical decision. That’s why we offer a wide range of options to meet your specific needs. Whether you need a small tank for a local farm or a large tank for a major industrial operation, we have the solution for you.
So don’t settle for anything less than the best. Choose Genset Hire and Sales Australia for your bulk fuel storage tank needs today. Contact us to learn more and get started on your project. With us, you can trust that you’re getting the highest quality product and exceptional customer service that you deserve.