This is a sample that was removed from the bottom of a storage tank. Looks gross, right?
In this sample, two major fuel problems were identified – microbial growth and moisture.
Diesel fuel tanks can be a prime breeding ground for microbial growth or “diesel bugs” when the fuel is left untreated. Microbes can be present in the air which allows them to be found in the fuel. Since diesel fuel and moisture create the right environment to feed the bugs; finding them in tanks is not exactly uncommon. Diesel bugs create a gel-like consistency that eventually become a genuine problem for your fuel injection system. The best way to prevent microbial growth is to reduce the moisture in diesel fuel tanks.
As the winter months approach, moisture becomes an even bigger issue. Since water freezes at 32 degrees Fahrenheit, the water in your fuel can freeze and create ice particles which can block filters from freely passing the fuel to the injectors. Removing moisture from your diesel fuel is critical to keep your fleet moving during the winter.
These 3 regular maintenance activities are vital to help reduce moisture:
- Drain the water separator
- Drain saddle tanks
- Change filters
Diesel Direct offers a variety of proprietary additive packages to help control moisture and get the edge on winter. To learn more about our additives, please visit dieseldirect.com/roadchamp/ or call us at 1.888.900.7787 – our team is ready to help you reduce the moisture in your fuel and give your fleet the edge on winter.
