Choosing the Right Filter for your Diesel Tank

Diesel storage tanks are a common feature in many industries, including transportation, agriculture and manufacturing. They serve as a convenient and cost effective way to store large amounts of diesel fuel for use in vehicles, equipment, and generators. Over time, these tanks are liable to become contaminated leading to issues with fuel quality, which is why it is important to ensure your tank has the right fuel filter.

Filters are essential components of any diesel storage system as they remove impurities and contaminants from the fuel before it is dispensed. However with so many different types of filters available, choosing the right one for your tank can be a daunting task. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the key factors to consider when selecting a filter for your diesel storage tank.

1. Type of Contaminants

The first thing you need to consider is the type of contaminants that are likely to be present in your fuel. Common types of contaminants include water, dirt, rust and microbial growth. Each of these contaminants require a different type of filter to effectively remove them from the fuel.

For example, water can be removed using water-absorbing filters, while dirt and rust can be removed using particle filters. Microbial growth on the other hand, requires specialised filters that are designed to kill and remove the bacteria that causes it.

2. Flow Rate

The next factor to consider is the flow rate of your fuel system. The flow rate is the amount of fuel that passes through the filter per unit of time, typically measured in litres per minute. Choosing a filter with the correct flow rate is important to ensure that your system operates efficiently and effectively.

If the flow rate is too low, the filter may become clogged and cause the system to operate inefficiently. If the flow rate is too high, the filter may not be able to effectively remove contaminants from the fuel, leading to poor fuel quality and performance.

3. Micron Rating

The micron rating of a filter refers to the size of the particles that it can effectively remove from the fuel. The lower the micron rating, the finer the filter and the more particles it can remove. However, filters with a lower micron rating can also become clogged more quickly, which can lead to reduced efficiency with your fuel system.

The ideal micron rating for your filter will depend on the type of contaminants that are present in your fuel. For example, particle filters typically have a micron rating of between 2 – 30 microns, while water-absorbing filters have a micron rating of between 10 – 30 microns.

4. Filter Material

The material that a fuel filter is made of can also impact its effectiveness and longevity. Common filter materials include paper, synthetic fiber and metal mesh. Paper filters are inexpensive and effective at removing large particles, but they can become clogged quickly and required frequent replacement. Synthetic fiber filters however, are more durable, and can effectively remove smaller particles. Metal mesh filters are the most durable and long-lasting, but they are also the most expensive.

5. Maintenance Requirements

Finally it is important to consider the maintenance requirements of your chosen fuel filter. Some filters require frequent replacement or cleaning, while others can be used for extended periods without maintenance. Before choosing a filter, consider how frequently you will need to replace or clean it, and factor this into your decision.

Choosing the right filter for your diesel storage tank is essential to ensure that your fuel remains clean and free of contaminants. By considering factors such as the type of contaminants, flow rate, micron rating, filter material, and maintenance requirements, you can select a filter that is effective, efficient and long-lasting. If you have any further queries about the filter for your tank, or are need a replacement filter, feel free to get in touch. Our team at Fuelchief would love to help you out. https://fuelchieftanks.com/contact/contact-us/