Generators produce electricity during power outages. This electricity production is achieved by converting the mechanical energy generated by the combustion of fuel into electrical energy. If there is no fuel in the generator during a power outage, the generator cannot function when needed. Therefore, fuel storage should be done to prevent such a possibility from occurring. Fuel is stored in a specially designed fuel tank. Various considerations should be taken into account when selecting and installing the appropriate fuel tank.

Determining Fuel Tank Capacity

When determining the capacity of your fuel tank, the first thing you need to do is determine how much fuel you need. You can calculate the minimum storage capacity by estimating the following three parameters.

(1) Urgent Stock:

How much fuel is needed in case of excessive consumption and delays after a power outage?

(2) Lead Time:

How long does it take to supply the fuel from the seller to the generator location?

(3) Procurement Time Storage

How much fuel will run the generator until I supply fuel from the dealer?

Based on the three parameters above, the minimum amount of storage is determined as adjacent:
Minimum storage capacity = Urgent Stock + Lead Time Storage

What is the optimal fuel storage capacity?

In the event of short-term power outages, a smaller storage tank will suffice for the fuel requirement. However, due to the small size of the tank, you need to buy fuel more often and in small quantities. Because of the small tank, your cost will be low when purchasing the generator; but then the amount of fuel consumed per unit becomes higher. Large storage tanks are used in large commercial establishments or areas where power outages are frequent and prolonged. In this case, you can buy fuel in smaller and larger batches. However, your cost will be high when purchasing the generator. At the same time, maintenance costs will be high in the long run. On the other hand, the amount of fuel consumed per unit is reduced because you order large quantities of fuel to be delivered in one go. However, you also need to calculate the hidden cost of the hazards associated with storing a larger amount of fuel.

Types of Fuel Tanks

Generator fuel tanks are generally of three types:

1. Sub-base tanks
2. underground storage tanks
3. Aboveground storage tanks

Sub-Base Tanks

If you are storing less than 1,000 gallons of fuel, you can use the base of the generator as a fuel tank. As the name suggests, the sub-base tanks are fixed to the base surface of the generator set. Sub-base tanks are rectangular cross-section and double-walled tanks. This increases the durability of the tank against any leakage. Both tanks are constructed using heavy steel welding. Tank filling system; The inlet valve must be designed to close automatically when the tank is 95% full. After loading is complete, the primary tank is tested at 5 psig and the secondary tank at 3 psig.

Underground Storage Tanks

If you need to store more than 1,000 gallons of fuel, you can choose underground storage tanks or above-ground storage tanks. Underground storage tanks are more costly to build but have a longer life because they are environmentally protected. Underground storage tanks are made of steel but can be constructed with appropriate cathodic protection against corrosion from ground water. The generator should be used in accordance with the TS EN 12285 standard and with cathodic protection.

Leaks and debris in underground storage tank systems can be expensive and difficult to fix. Such systems should be equipped with overflow and spill prevention equipment and procedures. In the worst case scenario, the installation of underground storage tanks should be such that a fuel spill or leak is contained in a confined space. Therefore, the underground area is surrounded by concrete floors and walls. After underground storage tanks are loaded in this area, the outer zone is filled with sand and gravel.

Aboveground Storage Tanks

As the name suggests, these tanks are mounted above ground. While the structural features of these tanks are similar to those of underground tanks, the installation procedures vary widely. The reason for this is the different factors that need to be considered in order to minimize the dangers. Aboveground tanks pose a fire hazard with a risk of spreading to other nearby facilities. For this reason, these tanks should be at a distance that will not affect such facilities. Trenches should be built around the tank for possible leaks. The volume of the trenches should generally be 110% of the tank volume. Above ground storage tanks must be protected from weather conditions with appropriate protective structures. Steel or metal overflow pools can be used in aboveground fuel tanks, which should be at a capacity to be determined by the relevant approval authority or administration, and 30% / 50% / 100% of the Fuel Tank capacity can be preferred.