How to optimise fuel usage on your farm with diesel tanks

Effective and efficient fuel management and storage on farms are essential for streamlined operations and cost savings. It helps farmers manage their resources and allocate their time and money effectively to keep their businesses profitable and sustainable. Plus, fuel-efficient farming helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions by conserving energy and reducing fuel waste.
Having a diesel tank suited for farms doesn’t just provide a reliable storage solution but also gives farmers the ability to buy fuel in bulk, securing lower prices directly from the bowser and contributing to improving fuel efficiency. By making fuel readily available on your property, you can monitor fuel quality, and find ways to reduce fuel consumption, thereby contributing to fuel efficiency. This blog outlines key considerations when selecting a diesel tank for a farm, along with strategies to optimise fuel usage.

Selecting the right farm diesel tank

The first step to efficient fuel usage is selecting the right farm diesel tank. Choosing an appropriate diesel tank or your farm requires careful consideration. It should factor in the storage capacity, location, management, and more. Analyse these variables to determine the type of diesel storage tank needed.

It is essential to consider the location and type of diesel storage tank. Some types include:

Above-ground diesel tanks:Suitable for different fuel types with capacities ranging from 500L-100,000L, these tanks are easily accessible for refuelling and maintenance with an integrated pump option. With a self bunded (double wall) design, fuel is always protected from harsh conditions. Need to track fuel usage? A smartfill fuel management system can help maintain efficiencies.

Underground diesel tanksare space-efficient and less visible. Being underground, they are less susceptible to the weather or accidents, making them a safer option.

Mobile diesel tanks/cubessafely and efficiently transport fuel from one location to another while minimising the risk of leaks or spills that could cause harm to the environment or personnel. They are ideal for situations where access to fuel is limited or in emergencies.

When making your choice, you should take into account your fuel consumption requirements and how often you need to refill. Determine your average daily fuel consumption, the maximum consumption during peak periods, and the time it takes for fuel deliveries. By analysing these variables, you can determine the minimum storage capacity required to meet your operational needs.

It’s also important to determine the material your farm diesel tank should be made from. The material of your diesel storage tank is crucial for its durability, resistance to corrosion, compatibility with specific environments, and overall lifespan. The most common materials used for diesel storage tanks are steel, aluminium, and polyethylene.
Navigating local bulk fuel storage regulations is essential, as guidelines vary by region. It’s important to consult local authorities or regulatory bodies to understand the specific regulations that apply in your area.

Proper storage and maintenance of farm diesel tanks

Proper storage and maintenance of farm diesel tanks is of utmost importance. Diesel degrades if not stored in a cool, dry place as it can lead to oxidation or microbial growth, affecting machinery. Generally, a farm diesel tank stores fuel for 6 to 12 months, so inspect the tanks regularly to ensure optimal performance and longevity. Some best practices to follow for proper storage and maintenance should include:

• Using a dedicated diesel tank to prevent cross-contamination with other fuels
• Regularly inspecting the tank and its components for signs of wear or damage
• Removing accumulated debris, sludge, or sediment and replacing clogged filters to prevent any contamination from reaching your machinery
• Checking for signs of water contamination or fuel degradation
• Storing your farm diesel tank in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight and heat sources
• Monitoring your fuel management system to regulate fuel levels and prevent overfilling

Learn more on our blog: Cleaning and Maintaining Fuel Tanks

If you store more than 1,000 litres of any type of fuel in tanks, you are required to have an emergency response plan that meets strict environmental safety standards. This plan greatly reduces the risk of accidents and minimizes ecological and property damage in the event of a spill.

Leveraging technology

Streamlining processes with fuel management software
Being a fuel-efficient farm means you need to evaluate fuel consumption patterns regularly. Fuel tracking and management systems assist with fuel allocation to provide accurate cost tracking for future budgets. Regular monitoring can also detect any leaks or theft.

Advanced fuel monitoring systems or software can help with real-time inventory management to track fuel level, and usage rates and even help detect fuel leaks or shortages This ensures that operations are streamlined, to keep it cost-effective. Combined with fuel dispensing and vehicle data, this allows you to create a clear picture of fuel usage, helping you address issues early on and optimise efficiency.

Matching this with the use of telematics and GPS tracking, the benefits of fuel optimisation are significant. With telematics installed, you can guide drivers to ideal routes that avoid traffic or accidents. Using real-time data means identifying and addressing fuel waste as it happens, not after.

Optimise Use of Equipment

A well-designed diesel storage tank can reduce your farm’s carbon footprint by minimising waste and excess consumption, helping you efficiently store fuel. It’s also important to refuel smartly in order to maintain efficiency. Some tips include:

• Combine tasks and plan refuelling to minimise back and forth between the farm. The minimised transportation costs reduce the environmental impact of frequent fuel transportation and air pollution
• Refuelling early morning or in the late evenings minimises fuel evaporation
• Use the right-sized equipment to avoid excess fuel consumption
• Avoid overfilling machinery and use automatic shut-off systems wherever possible

How can Durotank help

A farm diesel tank is more than just a fuel storage unit, it’s vital in your farm’s fuel management system. By following the above steps of choosing the right tank, maintaining it and implementing efficient strategies, you can optimise fuel usage to the maximum extent.

Choosing Durotank means opting for reliable, durable, and compliant farm diesel tanks tailored to your business needs. Our diesel storage tanks are 100% Australian-made, built for durability, and available in a variety of sizes for your capacity needs. We have a strong reputation for providing high-quality, convenient fuel storage solutions across Australia.

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