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The need for diesel generators is increasing around the U.S. as a backup source of power for municipalities, hospitals, and other large facilities. California reported a 1,400% increase in demand for generators. And each generator requires a fuel system and a fuel storage tank.
Fuel storage tank design falls under two types, single-wall tanks and double wall fuel tanks. Diesel fuel is less combustible and typically stored in aboveground double wall fuel storage tanks. However, there are single-wall tanks available for diesel, and not all diesel fuel is destined for a generator. Which one is best for your application? Let’s find out.
Benefits Of a Double Wall Tank vs. Single Wall Tank
Businesses can purchase single or double-wall fuel tanks to store diesel fuel in aboveground storage tanks (AST). They each have benefits and disadvantages. The EPA’s Spill Prevention, Control, and Countermeasure Plan (SPCC) dictates their use and installation over 55 gallons. Each state or province will likely have additional regulations.
Single Wall Fuel Tanks
The benefit of a single-wall diesel storage tank is the lower cost. It can cost about one-third that of a double-wall steel tank of the same capacity. The difference is that there must be a secondary containment in the event of a leak. Typically for ASTs, the tank will be inside an epoxy-coated concrete structure large enough to contain the entire contents of the tank.
The most significant disadvantage of single-wall fuel tanks is the necessity for secondary containment. Building it from scratch can end up costing more than a double-wall tank.
Double Wall Fuel Tank
A double wall fuel tank already complies with SPCC rules. This fuel storage tank has an outer, ‘double’ wall that contains the inner tank. The space between the outer and inner tank will be a vacuum monitored by a sensor. Loss of vacuum will indicate a leak.
An added advantage to not building a containment structure is that the second wall keeps out the weather. Double-wall tanks must meet specific requirements before the EPA considers the second wall sufficient to contain the contents. You can view some of the AST requirements here.
Do Fuel Tanks Need a Double Wall?
If your location does not have the room or a permit to build a containment structure, you will need a double-wall diesel storage tank.
Some other questions people have about fuel tanks are…
Are Diesel Fuel Tanks Double-Walled?
As we discussed above, not every fuel storage solution is a double-wall tank.
How Big is A 300-Gallon Fuel Tank?
A horizontal, aboveground single wall tank with a 300-gallon capacity weighs about 242 pounds. The dimensions are 38 inches in diameter by 5 feet. A double-wall fuel tank with both walls made with 12 gauge steel weighs approximately 684 pounds.
How much does a 2000 gallon fuel tank weigh?
A 2,000-gallon single wall fuel tank weighs about 1,980 pounds. A double-wall fuel tank of the same capacity weighs approximately 3,450 pounds.
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Using Fluxwrap for Consistent Temperature Control
Storing diesel fuel at temperatures below 10°F (12°C) or above 150°F (66°C) will cause problems. At low temperatures, diesel will gel, an issue called “Wax Dropout” that clogs the lines and filters. At high temperatures, an issue called “Coking” will eventually plug the fuel injectors. Maintaining a steady temperature is critical for the best fuel performance.
Fluxwrap fluid channel blankets maintain a set temperature inside single-wall or double-wall tanks. They wrap around the tank, conforming to its shape, then attach to process chillers for any application. The chillers circulate heated or chilled fluid around the tank either indoors or outside. Fluxwrap can cool or heat aboveground double wall fuel tanks, or single wall, as small as 5 gallons up to 275 gallons.
Total Temperature Control of Diesel Storage Tanks
Why is Fluxwrap the best cooling wrap? North Slope Chillers’ Fluxwrap provides a custom solution and complete temperature control. Fluxwrap’s fluid channels increase the flow of temperature control fluid evenly across the tank’s surface without gaps, air pockets, or pressure drops. The Fluxwrap conforms to any shape tank. To learn more, visit North Slope Chillers or call us at (866) 826-2993.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is a double-wall fuel tank required?+
Double-wall fuel tanks are required by EPA and state regulations for above-ground fuel storage in areas near water supplies, in environmentally sensitive locations, and often for tanks over 660 gallons. Many jurisdictions now require double-wall construction for all new above-ground fuel installations.
How does temperature affect fuel stored in tanks?+
Fuel expands as temperature rises and contracts as it cools, creating pressure changes inside the tank. Extreme heat accelerates fuel degradation, increases evaporative losses, and can promote microbial growth. Maintaining stable, moderate temperatures extends fuel quality and reduces vapor emissions.
Do fuel storage tanks ever need cooling?+
Yes, fuel tanks exposed to direct sunlight or high ambient temperatures may need cooling to prevent excessive vapor pressure, fuel degradation, and safety hazards. Wrapping a tank with a Fluxwrap jacket connected to a chiller can maintain fuel within optimal storage temperature ranges.
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