b'Marketer Member NewsPREVENTING WATER INTRUSION into Storage Tank SystemsHow to Prevent Water from Entering Storage Tank Plugged fuel filters are a common result of microbial growth, Systems: Basic practices to prevent water from entering stor- caused by the slime created by a thriving microorganism colony age tank systems include: Monitoring and checking for waterclogging the small filter openings.Filter life shorter than six daily with automatic tank gauging systems and manual gaugemonths is a warning signal. Dispenser flow rates will lengthen sticks; Inspecting fill and vapor caps for damages and for miss- when microbial growth is present. Other signs are plugged fuel ing gaskets, replacing if necessary; Inspecting product and spilllines, erratic gauge readings, a rotten-egg odor, accelerated containment buckets and proper disposal of water if found (notcorrosion and frequent replacement of other components such draining back into the tank); Auditing the fuel delivery processas sump pumps, valves, rubber seals and hoses.Problems may and water content; Using water-sensitive fuel filters and watchingalso surface in vehicles fueled by contaminated product, such as for slowed-down fueling; Treating storage tanks with antimicro- plugged fuel filters and unusual exhaust smoke.If water levels bial pesticide (biocide) on a regular basis; Employing a qualifiedin a storage tank were high enough to be pumped directly into a professional to examine the inside of the tank, remove any watervehicle, immediate and major problems would occurthis is of and sludge, and clean the tank periodically.particular concern when switching to ethanol-based fuels. Locating Water and Removing It: Manual and/or automaticIf water accumulation is an ongoing problem, consider using tank gauging is a good way to detect water intrusion into tanks.periodic treatments of antimicrobial pesticide (biocide) for the However, periodic sampling and testing of fuels is a necessaryfuel and fuel system as an added safety measure. Field detection tank maintenance practice. Fuel samples should be taken from thekits can verify microbial growth, but it is suggested that qualified low end of the tank and if possible from more than one locationprofessionals with expertise in microbial contamination control in the tank. Always take samples from the low end of the tank. be contacted to develop a treatment plan.This may include Hazy or waxy fuel samples indicate water, and readily availableinitial tank cleaning to remove the slime and sludge, followed by field detection kits can check for microbes and whether the fuela treatment with a biocide.meets specifications. If water is detected at any time, it must beAdditional Information: Contact your fuel supplier and/or a removed by qualified service contractors.petroleum equipment or service provider.Standards and infor-Signs of Microbial Growth: Microscopic bacteria can grow inmational resources are also available from organizations such as a moist environment and attack the entire storage system, includ- the Steel Tank Institute, Petroleum Equipment Institute, Ameri-ing steel and fiberglass reinforced plastic tanks, tank linings,can Petroleum Institute, ASTM International, National Oil heat elastomeric seals and hoses, low points in the piping, leak detec- Research Alliance, U.S. Department of Energy, and U.S. EPA tors, turbine pump components, filters and valves, and overfillOffice of Underground Storage Tanks. State storage tank regula-prevention devices. tors should also be consulted.SWPMA News / Spring 202425'