We pin our business on our products and our network of distributors. Together it has helped F.E.S. TANKS become the market leader for self bunded tanks in Australia.
Our fuel storage tanks are tough, durable and built to last. Double that up with practical pumping equipment and you get some pretty versatile mobile refuelling stations.
Nqpetro is our distributor on the East Coast of Australia. They take great pride in their ability to design and implement fuel storage solutions for any necessary task.
With a couple of recent additions to their staff, they’ve had a renewed focus on our Bloc tanks and supplying the perfect tank for their customers fuel storage needs.
Australians love their travel and with huge distances to cover between domestic destinations and beyond, our aviation fuel use continues to rise.
And we’re not the only ones – the aviation industry contributes about 2.5% of the world’s total carbon and accounts for about 8% of global oil production.
But as commercial aircraft operators around the world work towards net zero goals, it’s proving one of the most difficult industries to decarbonise.
The demand for jet fuel is growing, particularly in the Asia Pacific region – demand in Australia is expected to increase by 75 per cent before 2050, with Boeing forecasting around 42,600 new commercial jets will be needed over the next 20 years.
At the same time, the limitations of technology make electric engines and alternative fuels like green hydrogen impractical for long haul flights, meaning commercial airlines and defence forces are increasingly looking for solutions in sustainable aviation fuels.
Sustainable aviation fuel – a drop-in replacement for traditional aviation fuel solutions – is quickly gaining a foothold and is already used in more than 250,000 flights.
What is sustainable aviation fuel?
Sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) is a low carbon alternative to traditional jet fuel made from renewable sources like waste or crops.
SAF works with existing aircraft infrastructure. The CSIRO’s Sustainable Aviation Fuel Roadmap says it offers the largest potential to reduce carbon emissions over the next 30 years in all aviation segments.
It’s currently made from five main types of raw materials: oils and fats, sugar and cereal, municipal solid waste, wood and agricultural residue, or renewable energy and carbon, which are used to replace a proportion of the crude oil feedstock.
Depending on the feedstock, SAF can achieve a reduction in CO2 emissions of at least 70% and up to 85% compared to conventional kerosene-based fuel – a significant incentive for airlines when CO2 compliance costs are increasing at around 3.4% a year.
Already, Airbus aircraft are 50% SAF compatible. To address supply, the CSIRO and Boeing are working together to explore production opportunities and Australia and New Zealand are partnering with a view to becoming an integral part of a growing sustainable aviation fuel supply chain.
At Emerald in Queensland, a multi-grain processing facility is being built specifically to support the SAF industry with a capacity to process about 70,000 tonnes a year once complete to support an industry which is projected to be worth up to $3 billion annually by 2030.
How is SAF made?
Each different feedstock uses a different production technology which must be approved by the ASTM before being commercially deployed.
Most of the SAF supplied today is made by converting waste fats, oils, and greases into synthetic kerosene using hydrotreated esters and fatty acids (HEFA).
Standalone units work by turning sustainable feedstocks into synthetic kerosene (SK), which is certified under the ASTM D7566 standard. It is then blended with up to 50 per cent conventional jet fuel, certified to ASTM D1655 or Defence Standard 91-091 and supplied as a conventional Jet A/Jet A-1 fuel.
Alternatively, SAF can be produced through co-processing, where up to 5% sustainable feedstocks are hydro-processed alongside fossil feedstocks in a refinery.
The CSIRO is researching use of gas to liquid technology to create SAF from sustainable sources.
Sustainable aviation fuel – Pros and Cons
Pros – Clean technology and efficiency
The good news is SAF is safe to use in any aircraft that currently use jet fuel.
It achieves lifecycle carbon emission savings of up to 80 per cent – good news for the environment and for reducing compliance costs – this year, tests in Germany with aircraft running on 100% sustainable aviation fuel also found reductions in soot and contrails.
SAF also has a higher energy density than conventional jet fuel, requiring slightly less fuel to be carried and combusted during flight, thereby improving fuel efficiency.
Cons -Price and supply: Fuel is one of the largest operational expenses for commercial airlines and the cost of SAF has until now far outstripped traditional Jet A1 fuel.
In 2020, the overall cost of jet fuel was $0.5 per liter. Meanwhile, the cost of SAF was $1.1 per litre, more than double the price of conventional jet fuel.
But the tide is turning and with jet fuel prices growing at about 1% a year, the efficiencies sustainable fuel can achieve and growth in supply are expected to make it roughly equal to jet fuel and carbon emission costs by 2037.
The CSIRO says while Australia has the feedstock, a lack of on-shire refining capability may also contribute to higher costs and supply constraint in the short-term.
Storing sustainable aviation fuel
In more good news, SAF can be stored in the same fuel infrastructure as other jet fuels and the same principles apply for ensuring fuel stays fresh and in good condition.
The F.E.S Tanks range of portable, self-bunded double-walled aviation fuel tanks provides a hassle-free solution for AVGAS, Jet A1 and SAF that meets or exceeds Australian Standards, with none of the hassle of cleaning and inspecting underground tanks.
F.E.S aviation fuel tanks are also made with a sloping floor and without interior baffles, ensuring a free drainage floor pan and allowing for the safe removal of water from aviation fuel as part of your daily maintenance program.
For expert advice on your sustainable aviation fuel storage needs, call the team at F.E.S Tanks to discuss the aviation fuel storage solution that’s right for you.
General aviation is a critical industry in Australia, particularly for regional communities.
It delivers education and health services, tourism, regional health and education services, supports agriculture and enables emergency services.
In most cases, the aircraft involved are piston engine aircraft powered by avgas aviation fuel.
What is avgas?
Avgas, short for aviation gasoline, is an aviation fuel used in planes driven by spark-ignited internal combustion piston engines. It is different from jet fuel, which is kerosene based, and from the petrol used in motor vehicles because it needs to power higher performance aircraft engines.
A fuel’s octane rating measures its ability to withstand compression in the engine without detonating – piston engine aircraft require a high-octane fuel. For this reason, the most common types of avgas still contain tetraethyl lead, which assists with engine lubrication and helps prevent engine knocking (premature detonation). Because tetraethyl lead is toxic, only the minimum amount needed to achieve the required fuel octane rating is used – and manufacturers are working to find safer and more sustainable alternatives.
How is avgas classified?
Different grades of avgas have different maximum lead concentrations and are identified by the octane rating of the fuel tested to both “aviation lean” and “aviation rich” standards. These standards relate to the lean engine settings typically used for cruising and the rich settings used for take-off and when full power is required.
Different types of avgas are identified by their octane ratings and are coloured for easy identification.
Types of avgas
There are two main avgas grades (100 and 100LL low lead) used in the general aviation community.
Avgas 100 is the standard high-octane fuel for aviation piston engines. It has a high lead content and is dyed green. The two major specifications for Avgas 100 are the ASTM D910 and UK DEF STAN 91-090. The two specifications differ in antioxidant content, oxidation stability requirements and maximum lead content.
Avgas 100LL is a lower lead version of Avgas 100. This grade is listed in the same specifications as Avgas 100, namely ASTM D910 and UK DEF STAN 91-090. Avgas 100LL is dyed blue.
In the United States, the Federal Aviation Administration has approved an unleaded avgas, the G100UL. In Australia, unleaded avgas is still in development, with the Civil Aviation Safety Authority warning in 2023 that it should not simply be substituted for leaded fuel. Shell is among major suppliers working on development of an unleaded avgas with similar octane performance to Avgas 100LL, but testing and development is still underway. This fuel is controlled by the specification ASTM D7960.
Getting avgas storage right
Avgas is extremely flammable and toxic. Storing it properly in accordance with regulations is critical for safety in the air and on the ground.
Storage and transfer points provide the greatest opportunity for fuel contamination, with surfactants, water, particulates and misfuelling the most common contaminants for aviation fuel.
Water contamination is possibly the greatest threat to aviation fuel. Free water can enter the fuel through degraded seals, accumulation at low points in the tank or pipeline or condensation from air entering the tank. In piston-powered aircraft, water can collect in the carburettor float bowl and stop the engine. This is why regular testing with a water detecting kit is essential.
Particulates like rust, scale, lint and dust can cause engine stalling and damage. While rust is most common, other solids that can cause this type of contamination include dust and pollen, which can enter through tank vents or slip past seals. Rubber particles and fibres can also enter through damaged hoses and filters, while microbial infestation can create slimy residue. Avoid refuelling from fuel cans, which increases the risk of particulate contamination.
Surfactants are are soap or detergent-like compounds that can be introduced into the fuel during processing and transfer, including through cross-contamination and fuel additives. While small amounts are common, excessive amounts reduce the surface tension between water and the fuel. This can cause water and small particles in the fuel to remain suspended rather than settling into the sumps. Surfactants also tend to collect in filter elements making them less effective.
F.E.S Tanks avgas storage solutions
F.E.S Tanks avgas fuel tanks are made to the highest quality standards with a 100% stainless steel inner tank and all fittings are also made of stainless steel, minimising the risk of rust and particle contamination or water leaks. They’re also built without an interior baffle to ensure free drainage and allow for the safe removal of water.
Talk to the experts at F.E.S Tanks to get the most out of your avgas fuel storage.
Fuel security is a hot issue for Australia’s aviation industry. With 90 per cent of liquid fuel – including jet fuel – imported through long supply chains, supply is subject to geopolitical tensions, delays and quality issues.
The effect on price is predictable. Jet fuel prices in Australia are still well above pre-pandemic levels – causing a hit to the bottom line for aviation businesses and to the hip pocket for consumers.
The CSIRO is working with the aviation industry to develop new types of sustainable aviation fuel that will help reduce reliance on imports and lower prices, but in the meantime Jet A1 fuel is the most common fuel used in Australian turbine aircraft.
Given the cost of fuel makes up around a third of airline operating costs, getting Jet A1 storage right and minimising waste is an important part of sustainable operations for any aviation-based business.
What is Jet A1 fuel?
Jet fuel is a kerosene-based fuel similar to diesel and is the leading aviation fuel type for turbine-engine aircraft – from commercial jets to cargo aircraft, military airplanes and more. It is generally more stable and more widely available than avgas, with different properties that make it more suited to jet engines and to flying through different climactic conditions.
Because its exact composition varies, jet fuel is defined using performance specifications and requirements including freezing point and smoke point.
There are three main jet fuel varieties made from either unleaded kerosene (Jet A and Jet A-1) or a naphtha-kerosene blend (Jet B).
Jet A has been used primarily in the United States since the 1950s. This fuel is developed to be heavier with a higher flash point and freezing point than standard kerosene. Both Jet A and Jet A1 have a flashpoint higher than 38 °C with an autoignition temperature of 210 °C.
Jet A1 is the most used jet fuel worldwide. Jet A1 has a lower freezing point (-47° C) than Jet A (-40° C) so it is especially suitable for international travel through varying climates. This type of fuel also contains mandatory static dissipater additives that decrease static charges that form during movement.
Jet B is a naptha-kerosene fuel with a uniquely low freezing point of -60° C, making it useful in extremely cold areas. It’s what’s known as a “wide cut fuel”, made from a blend of about 30% kerosene and 70% gasoline. However, Jet B’s lighter composition makes it more dangerous to handle and it has a low flashpoint. It is primarily used in northern Canada and Alaska, where the extreme cold makes its low freezing point necessary.
Contamination risks for Jet A1 fuel
Because of its kerosene base, Jet A1 fuel is less volatile than Avgas and can generally be stored for longer – particularly in the right conditions.
But it’s still vulnerable to common causes of fuel contamination.
Water contamination: Free water in aviation fuel can lead to ice formation, filter blockages and engine failure. It can also allow microbial growth in fuel tanks, which can cause fuel spoiling and filter blocking. Acids generated by the microbes can even cause corrosion damage. Water can get into insecure storage tanks during transfer or through condensation, particularly if the structure of the tank provides natural collection points like baffles. The most common way of testing for water in fuel is to use a water detector tablet or capsule, which can indicate whether the water level is above or below 30 ppm, the maximum allowed limit.
Particulates: Metals like copper react with jet fuel, causing serious issues and fuel instability even at very small concentrations. Rust in fuel storage tanks or fittings is another common source of particles that can eventually entering the fuel. This is why under Australian safety regulations, any part of a storage tank that could come into contact with jet fuel must be stainless steel.
Microbes:Microorganisms found in jet fuels include bacteria, yeasts and fungi. As they grow, these organisms can form solid debris that can block and damage fuel filters. Some microorganisms also produce acids that can accelerate metal corrosion. Since most microorganisms need free water to grow, this kind of contamination is most commonly found anywhere fuel meets water.
Incorrect fuel/misfuelling: Mixing aviation fuels can prove disastrous in terms of cost and safety. Jet A1 can cause engine failure quickly in an avgas-powered engine. The aviation industry uses a uniform marking code for fuel storage tanks as one way of protecting against grade mixing contamination and errors. Jet A1 tanks are clearly marked with two black bands.
Your Jet A1 fuel storage checklist
The good news is that getting storage right can help you make the most out of your Jet A1 fuel and keep your aviation business operating smoothly.
There are some simple things to look out for when choosing Jet A1 storage.
Quality manufacture: Look for stainless steel for a long-lasting Jet A1 storage tank that will help keep your fuel safe. This will also reduce the risk of water contamination due to rusting that compromises tank integrity. F.E.S Tanks self-bunded aviation tanks have a 100% stainless steel inner tank and all fittings are also made of stainless steel. This not only meets all safety requirements and is very long lasting, but also gives you complete peace of mind on the operational integrity of the tank overall.
Easy installation and maintenance: The best way to keep fuel safe is to regularly check the integrity of storage tanks. The F.E.S range of self-bunded double walled tanks can be easily installed on most sites – there is no longer a need to build expensive underground storage with all the decontamination issues that involves. What’s more, our aviation fuel tanks are coated to twice the thickness of many others, for a much longer life.
Avoid baffles: Some manufacturers use baffles as part of the structural integrity of the tank construction or to keep fuel stable, but baffles can act as collection points for water condensation – something best avoided when storing Jet A1 fuel. F.E.S. aviation fuel tanks are made without an interior baffle, ensuring a free drainage floor pan and allowing for the safe removal of water from aviation fuel as part of your daily maintenance program.
Safety standards: In Australia, Jet A1 fuel tanks must meet AS1692 and AS1940. F.E.S. aviation fuel tanks are all made to Australian Standards in a spotlessly clean, purpose-built manufacturing facility. Each tank is inspected regularly during the manufacturing process, before it leaves the factory and when it arrives at the destination.
Portable Jet A1 Storage and Refuelling Station
Whether you’re storing 1000 litres or 100,000 litres, get in touch with our expert team to discuss a Jet A1aviation fuel storage solution that’s right for you.
A diesel bug is a common term for a myriad of microscopic organisms that grow in the fuel-water interface present in any static bodies of diesel – particularly fuel tanks. From yeasts, to fungi and algae, these bugs share a few typical features.
They require water and warmth for growth.
A fast reproductive cycle allows them to multiply in numbers very quickly.
As the older ‘bugs’ die their bodies and waste products accumulate in the tank.
This results in the formation of a layer of sludge and slime.
Whilst you may or may not have heard of the term “diesel bug” or “diesel bug contamination”, you may have heard of “fuel contamination” which can be very closely linked to the presence of water and diesel bugs.
Did you know your tank breathes?
When we talk about air and water in tanks, they often exist together – and one of the reasons is because your tank breathes.
Each day, either through temperature fluctuation or the movement of fuel, the air pocket within a tank expands and contracts. This is why storage tanks are fitted with a breather – a valve that allows the tank to relieve this excess pressure and vacuum.
As air is introduced via the breather, it brings moisture in from the atmosphere with it, and cooler conditions within the tank can allow this moisture to condense. As these little droplets of water collect, they eventually fall into the fuel itself, and create a water-fuel interface – the perfect home for diesel bugs.
A full tank has limited airspace for the transfer of moisture via condensation.
Each of these droplets is like a swimming pool of space for more microbes and spores to colonize. With a constant supply of energy from the diesel, and dissolved oxygen from the water, this creates a perfect environment for these bugs to quickly take over.
Over time, if these water and bug issues are not handled correctly, there is a real risk of structural and mechanical damage to contaminated tanks, vessels, vehicles and machinery.
Slime, Grit & Machine Failure – Is Your Fuel Contaminated?
Sometimes the first symptoms of diesel bugs and contaminated fuel are not noticed, but the consequences cost us countless dollars each year in maintenance and damages.
If you notice any of these tell-tale signs, make sure to inspect your tank, and if you are unsure how, always check with your supplier –
Clogged filters & the presence of slime or grit on tank floors.
Pitted or corroded components in machinery and fuel systems.
Darker fuel, or the presence of a foul smell.
Rough running machinery from a particular fuel source or tank.
Any of these symptoms are indicators that fuel contamination may be affecting your diesel systems, and the key is vigilance, inspection and treatment before the problem multiplies.
Catching the Bugs – Inspection Protocol & Treatment
Ideally, inspection protocols and the correct treatment programs will allow us to identify, control, and protect our fuel reserves from diesel bugs. So what steps do we recommend?
The correct inspection protocols can catch fuel contamination before damages occur.
Prevention
For prevention, we recommend diesel biocide products. While these agents are great at controlling the numbers of living bugs – they do not remove existing sludge and slime, as this is primarily composed of dead bugs and their waste products.
These biocide products are not a permanent solution. Similar to hospitals and antibiotics – diesel bugs within your tank may develop resistance to these products, so we advise to use them appropriately as a preventive agent and to ask us for advice if you feel they are being overused.
Inspection & Fuel Testing
Inspecting your tanks regularly is a vital part to maintaining any fuel storage system, and many tanks have inspection hatches for this purposes.
Inspection routines should include monitoring your tank temperature, checking for leaks or checking for water in fuel reserves. Also, water condensation can be minimized by trying to keep the tanks full, and appropriate monitoring of tank levels is of utmost importance.
An extra level of safety can be gained by applying fuel testing methods to your maintenance schedule. This is particularly valuable as by testing the fuel itself, you can detect contamination that may not be visible to the naked eye or via inspection hatches.
Draining, Cleaning & Fuel Polishing
A tried and true method, draining and cleaning your fuel tank is essential to routine maintenance and should be performed at regular intervals as advised by your suppliers and local guidelines.
Any fuel removed during these processes can also be filtered and conditioned, which is commonly known as fuel polishing.
Fuel polishing is a series of filtration techniques designed to eliminate contamination, and in some scenarios can even save some of your fuel from being discarded.
Draining and cleaning is an ideal time to make sure that all water and existing debris is removed from your fuels.
Should you have any concerns or issues and require a second opinion, please get in touch for a chat.
Australia’s demand for aviation fuel is growing as use of air services continues to boom, with current domestic demand for jet fuel sitting at about 770 ML per year based.
It’s not hard to see why, with more than 5.2 million passengers taking off on domestic routes (including charter flights) in Australia in April 2024 alone, while domestic cargo movements totalled 24.9 thousand tonnes in the same month – up 5 per cent on the previous year.
With demand projected to increase by 75 per cent before 2050, understanding aviation fuel and the infrastructure that keeps it in top condition is central to supplying that need – a critical lifeline for businesses in sectors from tourism, passenger and cargo transport to emergency services, farming, scientific services, survey work and defence.
What is aviation fuel?
There are two main types of aviation fuel used in general aviation: jet fuel and AVGAS.
Jet fuel – including Jet A, Jet A1 and Jet B – is a refined kerosene-based liquid used to power turbine engines including turboprops and jet engines. While there are several main varieties, Jet A1 is the most commonly used jet aviation fuel worldwide because it has a low freezing point. In general, jet fuel is designed to be stable and predictable, including at extreme temperatures.
Avgas – For smaller propellor and piston-engine aircraft like those used for crop dusting and agriculture, Avgas (short for aviation gasoline) is the fuel of choice. Avgas is highly volatile, because it changes from a solid (liquid) to a vapour state at a temperature usually much lower than room temperature.
Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) – The CSIRO is working with manufacturers to develop a sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) industry in Australia. Sustainable aviation fuel is a biofuel alternative to fossil-based aviation fuels produced from renewable resources including agricultural waste, animal fats, vegetable oils and municipal waste, and significantly reduces aircraft carbon emissions. Global demand for SAF is expected to underpin an industry worth up to $23 billion worldwide by 2030.
Why is aviation fuel coloured?
Aircraft engines are designed to use a specific grade of fuel and oil, and getting this wrong can mean big trouble including power loss, engine failure and seriously reduced engine. Aviation fuel colours help quickly identify the fuel grades and prevent costly errors.
Civil aviation fuel is produced in three grades and colours – Avgas 100 is green, Avgas 100LL (low lead) is blue and Jet A1 turbine fuel is colourless or straw coloured.
Contamination in aviation fuel
It’s the responsibility of the aircraft operator to ensure fuel used in the plane is not contaminated, degraded or incorrect, so getting storage and transfer right is critical.
Common types of contamination can include water, micro-organisms and mixing fuels.
Water contamination
Water in aviation fuels can be suspended or free. Suspended water appears in the form of droplets – a high concentration will make the fuel look cloudy or hazy. Free water can begin as water dissolved in contaminated fuel. It can also be caused by condensation or leakage in underground tanks or inside the aircraft’s fuel tanks.
Condensation can happen inside a partially filled fuel tank when warmer air above the fuel meets the cooler surface of the tank, often on descent. Standing the plane overnight with partially filled tanks increases the risk of condensation, so the Civil Aviation Authority recommends standing the aircraft with full tanks.
To minimise the risk of water contamination aircraft should be checked before the first flight of the day, after each fuelling and always after taking on board fuel that is potentially contaminated with water.
CASA also recommends that aircraft fuel tanks and sumps be sampled before fuelling to remove condensation, and that any fuel is checked for the presence of water before transfer.
Testing for water can be difficult when refuelling from drums, because it may be difficult to access the lowest point of the drum. Water detecting paste, capsules or testing paper are some common alternative testing methods.
Micro-organisms and organic contamination
Another risk related to water contamination is micro-organisms including bacteria and fungus which can grow in jet fuel when water is present. This can cause slime on the inside surfaces of fuel tanks or dark-coloured contamination at drain points.
Bacteria and fungus can cause serious corrosion in fuel tanks and clog fuel filters, screens and fuel control units.
It’s important to check Jet A1 storage tanks regularly for slime or corrosion.
Biocides can be used to reduce risk.
Incorrect fuel
Contamination with the wrong type of aviation fuel can cause aircraft fuel system or engine damage – an expensive problem – and even result in engine power loss or failure in flight. If Avgas is contaminated with turbine fuel its antiknock and volatility characteristics will be inadequate for reciprocating engines, while turbine fuel mixed with AVGAS can result in damaging lead deposits in the turbine engine. While most turbine engines can operate on Avgas (usually with limitations and extra service required by the engine manufacturer), Jet A1 in a gasoline engine will cause total failure or severe degradation of performance.
If an aircraft is refuelled with incorrect fuel, corrective action must be carried out before operating the aircraft.
Handling aviation fuel
There are strict regulations around handling aviation fuel.
Avgas is highly volatile, because it changes from a solid (liquid) to a vapour state at a temperature usually much lower than room temperature. Splashing volatile fuel in an open container – for example when washing oily parts – or pouring a fuel sample into an open container can create an explosive free fuel mixture in the air.
That’s why all aviation fuel containers, including vehicles, are clearly marked with the grade of fuel they contain. Drums of aviation fuel must also be labelled in accordance with the Australian industry standard.
Having the right fuel transfer equipment is an important part of safe fuel handling.
Getting aviation fuel storage right
Choosing a high-quality aviation fuel storage system is the best way to minimise fuel contamination and keep your fuel, your aircraft and your people safe.
The F.E.S Tanks range of portable, self-bunded double-walled aviation fuel tanks provides a hassle-free solution for both AVGAS and Jet A1 fuel that meets or exceeds Australian Standards, with none of the hassle of cleaning and inspecting underground tanks.
F.E.S aviation fuel tanks are also made without an interior baffle, ensuring a free drainage floor pan and allowing for the safe removal of water from aviation fuel as part of your daily maintenance program.
Whether you’re storing 1000 litres or 100,000 litres, call the expert team at F.E.S Tanks to discuss the aviation fuel storage solution that’s right for you.
New self bunded tank distributor appointed in Launceston, Tasmania.
Australia’s leading manufacturer of self-bunded fuel tanks, F.E.S. TANKS, has partnered with Launceston based business Northern Fuel Maintenance to bring its plug and play range of Bloc and Grade tanks to Tasmania.
F.E.S. TANKS is an Australian-owned, trusted supplier of professional-grade self-bunded fuel storage tanks and mobile refuelling solutions to the transport, agricultural, commercial, industrial, mining, aviation and fuel retailing sectors.
Northern Fuel Maintenance’s Clinton Page said in the past, waiting for tanks to arrive had meant lost time and productivity for many Tasmanian businesses.
“When your work site needs change so do your fuel storage needs,” he said. “Having a solution that can be transported easily and deployed quickly without the need for extensive site preparation means businesses can adapt readily with minimal disruption.
“Our F.E.S range of tanks is on the ground and ready to go and offers a safe, convenient and efficient above ground fuel storage solution.
“F.E.S. TANKS are a quality, robust tank built to last, with practical features that make them easy to use, transport and maintain – perfect for Tasmanian conditions.”
F.E.S. TANKS Director Daryl Cygler said he was pleased to partner with Northern Fuel Maintenance to support the needs of Tasmanian businesses.
“Like us, Northern Fuel Maintenance is a family-owned business with a longstanding commitment to providing quality products and services to support local people,” he said.
“We’re pleased to be working with Clinton and his team to provide new fuel storage solutions for the Tasmanian market.”
About F.E.S. TANKS
F.E.S. TANKS has become the market leader in self-bunded storage tanks in Australia. Established in 2013, their reputation for offering environmentally-friendly fuel storage tanks with unique fuel dispensing and management solutions has led to fast national growth and expansion.
F.E.S. TANKS works with industries on the move to provide innovative, next-generation fuel storage solutions designed to take business into the future.
Northern Fuel Maintenance is a family-owned business operating out of Launceston since 1987. Over more than three decades they have built a trusted reputation meeting commercial and industrial fuel installation and maintenance needs with high quality products and services across the whole of Tasmania.
For more information email sales@northernfuel.com.au.
Our national network of distributors ensures we have your interest covered at all times.
With the Australian Government’s announcement of diesel fuel tank storage grants of up to $33 million each as part of its commitment to boosting the nation’s fuel security – and a corresponding obligation for industry to boost diesel storage levels by 40 per cent – choosing the right diesel storage solution has never been more important.
The Boosting Australia’s Diesel Storage program recognises that accessing fuel when it’s needed is vital for Australian business, critical infrastructure and a reliable supply chain.
The program will provide up to $200 million in competitive grants over three years to support construction of an additional 780 megalitres of onshore diesel storage.
It will also assist industry in meeting the new minimum stockholding obligation by 2024.
“Fuel, and diesel in particular, is the lifeblood of so many sectors in our economy, including our farmers, truckies and tradies. It is essential that we get the right balance and location of our onshore stockholdings,” Minister for Energy and Emissions Reduction Angus Taylor said.
“Diesel is crucial to Australia’s energy security as it underpins our critical infrastructure, transport sector and important industries, such as mining and agriculture. It is also critical during an emergency for essential services.
“Increasing Australia’s capacity to store diesel complements our other fuel security measures. This will strengthen our ability to manage potential disruptions, protect Australian motorists from future high prices, and keep our economy moving.”
The decision comes as diesel fuel storage infrastructure continues to evolve, with new solutions for everything from bulk refuelling stations to fleet refuelling, utilities depots, farms and construction projects providing new flexibility, security and cost savings.
Which diesel tank option is right for me?
Whether you’re powering a freight fleet, fuelling a broadacre farm or getting the job done at a remote construction site or mining operation, diesel fuel is a major expense. Storing your fuel in the right diesel fuel tank can save you dollars in improved productivity and reduced downtime but investing in the right diesel storage tanks for your business can also save you on site preparation and ongoing costs.
From underground bulk diesel storage tanks to self-bunded farm fuel storage solutions or remote refuelling options for freight fleets, there are a few central considerations that can help you make the right choice.
Fuel storage compliance – start with the right advice
Your fuel is a valuable investment, which is why getting compliance right is important.
When it comes to storing diesel fuel safely and in compliance with relevant national and regional regulations, getting the right advice from the start can save you money, reduce risk and give you peace of mind.
In Australia, the key standards governing fuel storage in diesel tanks are:
AS1940 Australian Standards for the Storage and Handling of Flammable and Combustible Liquids
AS1692 Steel Tanks for Flammable and Combustible Liquids
AS1657 Workplace access and safety
International standards include:
UL142 Global standard for tanks holding flammable and combustible liquids
UL2085 Standard for protected above-ground tanks for flammable and combustible liquids
It’s important to ensure the diesel tank you choose meets all relevant standards and is installed in line with local, state and Federal environmental and safety requirements. Environmental and safety legislation is different across urban, regional and remote areas, storage volumes, fuel types, business models and storage systems.
Underground diesel storage tanks
Underground diesel fuel tanks remain a popular option for businesses that need to keep large quantities of fuel (more than 10,000 litres) in a relatively secure and stable environment. They’ve typically been the go-to for businesses including service stations and retail fuel operations where space may be at a premium. Other advantages include reduced fuel loss due to evaporation and excellent fuel security.
On the downside, condensation tends to be a bigger issue when storing diesel in underground tanks. To minimise this problem it’s advisable to run the tanks at a minimum 70-80 per cent of capacity, to minimise the air space above the fuel level. It’s also important to use a water finding paste regularly so that water collecting below the fuel can be pumped out before diesel bugs cause fuel degradation.
Older underground diesel tanks have the potential to leak, leading to expensive clean-up bills and damage to the environment. Replacement and maintenance is also a major exercise representing a serious investment.
UPSS Regulations require owners and operators to regularly check for leaks in the fuel tanks and pipes used to store and handle petroleum products. They also need to meet minimum standards in their day-to-day environmental management of these storage systems. It’s important to speak to an expert about the requirements for UPSS in your area.
Above ground diesel tank options
Above-ground tripod diesel fuel tanks are a traditionally popular solution for smaller fuel volumes up to 2000 litres – commonly used on farming properties.
The good thing about tripod tanks is no electric pumps are needed, because fuel can be dispensed by gravity feed. There’s also no need for bunding because the smaller size tanks falls below environmental legislation for fuel containment. On the downside, access for cleaning, checking and refilling can be a major drawback.
If you need to store large volumes of diesel fuel, single wall horizontal steel storage tanks that comply with Australian standards are a cost effective alternative to underground storage. Tanks up to 150,000 litres capacity can be placed side by side and manifolded, to minimise pipework. On the downside, Australian fuel storage regulations require tanks over 10,000 litres to be contained by a bund, meaning additional site preparation costs and reduced flexibility if you need to relocate your storage to meet changing refuelling needs.
The self-bunded diesel fuel tanks revolution
On-ground self-bunded diesel tanks are an increasingly popular alternative to traditional in-ground or above ground storage options, revolutionising diesel storage in urban and remote locations. In sizes up to 110,000 litres, self-bunded diesel tanks are fully compliant with Australian and international standards and don’t require external bund walls, making installation simple even in remote or hard to access locations. The design of the tanks also means they can be easily secured on site and can be easily maintained to keep fuel fresh for longer, minimising machinery maintenance costs.
Small self bunded cube style portable diesel tanks in sizes from 1000 litres provide fast and flexible small-volume portable diesel fuel storage – ideal for operators wanting to get the competitive savings and reliability of large volume fuel storage with all the flexibility of a design and drop installation.
High volume self-bunded diesel storage tanks in sizes up to 110,000 litres are a popular option for large scale fuel farms at remote mine sites, because multiple fuel storage tanks can be easily connected to create a large volume, high demand refuelling facility.
Site preparation is minimal and self-bunded tanks are easier to install, clean and maintain than traditional underground fuel storage systems, with easy secure access and the capability to work with the latest fuel distribution and management technology.
Need help? Ask the experts.
For help in choosing the right diesel tank option to simplify and streamline your operations, it makes sense to ask the experts.
F.E.S. TANKS is Australia’s leader in self-bunded storage tanks. For advice on the system that’s right for you, call the F.E.S. TANKS team on 1300 651 391.
Australia’s market leader in fuel storage tanks, F.E.S. TANKS, has formed a new JV partnership with African-based Orca Fuel Solutions to launch Unity Fuel Solutions into the US and Canadian fuel storage market.
The venture will bring a new range of precision-engineered self-bunded fuel storage tanks and mobile refuelling solutions into a market that consumes more than 540 billion litres of motor grade fuel every year.
F.E.S. TANKS Director Robert Salerno said Unity Fuel Solutions was an exciting move into the North America market.
“We’re pleased to partner with ORCA Fuel Solutions, Africa’s leader in innovative fuel storage tanks, to launch Unity Fuel Solutions into the North American market,” he said.
“Unity Fuel Solutions brings together the deep knowledge base and extensive product range of the ORCA and F.E.S. teams. We’re a great team with the skills and the geographic reach to design fuel storage and distribution systems that meet the particular needs of businesses across multiple industries and across the world.
“Our combined experience working from urban areas to remote and often-harsh environments across Australia, Papua New Guinea and Africa, the Unity team offers a wealth of insight and experience in the manufacture of robust fuel storage equipment and logistics. This is where Unity Fuel Solutions will add real value for United States businesses.”
Unity Fuel Solutions Managing Jacky Shapiro said the Unity range of BLOC and GRANDE tanks would provide a versatile solution for US businesses looking for an affordable quality fuel storage option that could be installed quickly and easily.
“Business logistics in the United States is a $1.6 trillion market and with considerations like the growing use of biofuels due to Federal mandates, there is strong demand in that market for new fuel storage options,” she said.
“The Unity Fuel Solutions range of self-bunded fuel storage tanks and mobile refuelling solutions provides an excellent alternative to existing fuel storage and dispensing infrastructure, much of which is rapidly becoming unfit for purpose.”
About F.E.S. TANKS
F.E.S. TANKS has become the market leader in self-bunded storage tanks in Australia.
Established in 2013, their reputation for offering environmentally friendly fuel storage tanks with unique fuel dispensing and management solutions has led to fast national growth and expansion.
F.E.S. TANKS works with industries on the move to provide innovative, next-generation fuel storage solutions designed to take business into the future.
For more information go to www.festanks.com.au
About Unity Fuel Solutions
Unity Fuel Solutions is a new joint venture focused on creating better fuel solutions for industry on the move in North America.
It brings together Australia’s market leader in aboveground self bunded storage tanks, F.E.S. TANKS and ORCA Fuel Solutions, Africa’s leading manufacturer of precision-engineered fuel management solutions.
New self bunded tank distributor appointed in Melbourne, Victoria
F.E.S. TANKS, Australia’s market leader in self-bunded fuel storage tanks, has expanded its reach into Victoria through a new partnership with Austank.
F.E.S. TANKS is an Australian-owned, trusted supplier of professional-grade self-bunded fuel storage tanks and mobile refuelling solutions to the transport, agricultural, commercial, industrial, mining, aviation and fuel retailing sectors.
Austank project manager Krystal Lewis said the F.E.S. range of Bloc and Grande tanks provided a handy solution for Victorian businesses looking for an affordable quality fuel storage option that could be installed quickly and easily.
“A lot of work sites need tanks urgently as their needs change, and this is where F.E.S. tanks provide a great flexible solution,” Krystal said.
“With road transport more important than ever at the moment, some of our transport clients have found the F.E.S. range gives them exactly what they need – additional fuel storage and distribution capacity that can be installed and operational in days with minimal site preparation.
“F.E.S. TANKS are a really robust tank built to last, with practical features that make them easy to use, transport and maintain – they’re a great complement to the Austank range.”
F.E.S. TANKS Director Daryl Cygler said the partnership with Austank was good news for Victorian business.
“We’re pleased to partner with the Austank team to bring F.E.S. solutions to Victoria” he said.
“They’re a great team with the knowledge and skills to design fuel storage and distribution systems that meet the particular needs of their clients, from farmers to transport operators.”
About F.E.S. TANKS
F.E.S. TANKS has become the market leader in self-bunded storage tanks in Australia.
Established in 2013, their reputation for offering environmentally-friendly fuel storage tanks with unique fuel dispensing and management solutions has led to fast national growth and expansion.
F.E.S. TANKS works with industries on the move to provide innovative, next-generation fuel storage solutions designed to take business into the future.
Austank has been operating in Victoria and NSW since 1985, when it started as a company building domestic heating oil and lube oil tank.
Today the company specialises in the design, engineering, fabrication and installation of quality Australian made steel storage and process tanks for the petroleum, energy, chemical and power generation industries.
