Retail Petroleum Equipment

6 Central Illinois Manufacturing Company Rev B March 2006 Tank Evaluation For Ethanol Blends up to E10 Since ethanol blends will scour contaminants from the sidewalls and the bottom of the stor- age tank, it is strongly recommended that a high performance dispenser filter be used. The storage tank can accumulate a large amount of particulates that are typically mixed with wa- ter. Normal dispenser filters will prevent contaminants from reaching the customer’s fuel tank, but they will not detect Phase Separation. It is essential that all water is out of the tank and recontamination does not occur before or after adding an ethanol blend to the tank. There are many ways for water to contaminate the tank: water accumulation around the fill gauge manhole secondary containment submersible pump pits faulty gaskets loose fill caps leaky fittings a leak in the tank. Most tank gauging systems are not effective at measuring water below ¾ of an inch. Re- moval of tank bottom water and contaminants is recommended before introducing an etha- nol blend. Most tanks are equipped with ½ inch thick gauge plates under the tank openings. This construction can mask as much as ten gallons of water in tank bottoms. Tank tilt can also mask significant quantities of water. You must sample your tank. The worst enemy of ethanol blends is water. Depending on the temperature of the fuel, as little as 0.3% water can cause Phase Separation. A tank with a history of bottom water con- tamination is certain to present problems unless the cause of water buildup is addressed. Tanks must be prepared by taking steps to keep ground water from accumulating around the fill, gauge and submersible pump pits. All tanks must be water-tight prior to conver- sion. Check your tank and equipment! Make sure it is suitable for Ethanol Blends! “ A tank with a history of water and contaminants is certain to present problems when an ethanol blend is introduced .” “ It is very important that you clean your tank.” “ Install Bio-Tek ® Alcohol Monitor filters upon introduction of an ethanol blend into your tank. Use phase detecting paste such as: Sar-Gel ® Indicator Past or Gasiola ® All- Purpose Water Finding Paste to check for Phase Separation.” Re commende d Hous e k e ep i ng P r oc edu r e s For Ethanol Blends up to E10 Keep fill caps secure at all times. Respond to any customer complaints immediately by checking for Phase Separation. Monitor the dispenser for good flow. Change Bio-Tek ® Alcohol Monitor filters when flow is restricted and check for phase separation. Contaminants and Phase Separation can both contribute to filter clogging. Always keep extra Bio-Tek ® Alcohol Monitor filters on hand. Monitor fill opening and driveway covers for standing water. Correct this problem immediately. ( Continued on page 7)