What Are Self Bunded Tanks? A Complete Guide for Fuel Storage
Self bunded tanks have become the gold standard in safe, compliant and efficient fuel storage across Australia. From farms and construction sites to remote mining operations, these double-walled tanks offer unmatched protection and reliability.
In this complete guide, we’ll explore what self bunded tanks are, how they work, their benefits, applications across industries and how Durotank’s Australian-made solutions lead the market.
What Is a Self Bunded Tank?
A self bunded tank is a fuel storage tank with a double-wall construction, an inner tank that stores the fuel and an outer tank (or bund) that captures leaks or spills. This design eliminates the need for external bunding while ensuring compliance with environmental and safety regulations.
Also known as a “tank within a tank,” this structure is engineered to reduce environmental risks while maximising fuel storage efficiency.
How Do Self Bunded Tanks Work?
The inner tank holds the liquid fuel, while the outer tank serves as a protective layer. The space between the two walls acts as a containment zone in case of leakage. Monitoring systems can be installed in this cavity to detect leaks early.
Most self bunded tanks are equipped with:
- Integrated fuel pumps and dispensing kits
- Flow meters and filters
- Lockable cabinets for security
- Level indicators and overfill protection
This makes them a self-contained fuel station, ready for use in nearly any location.
Why Are Self Bunded Tanks So Popular in Australia?
Built for Harsh Conditions
Self bunded tanks are made from heavy-duty steel and built to endure Australia’s toughest climates – from the scorching outback to cyclone-prone coastal regions.
Quick to Install
Because they don’t require external bunding (e.g., concrete bund walls), they’re faster and cheaper to install.
Versatile Applications
They are suitable for a wide range of fuels and liquids, including:
- Diesel
- Petrol
- Aviation fuel
- AdBlue
- Lubricants
- Waste oil
Key Benefits of Self Bunded Tanks
1. Environmental Protection
The built-in bund prevents fuel leaks from contaminating soil or water, helping you meet EPA guidelines and environmental standards.
2. Compliance with Australian Regulations
Self bunded tanks comply with:
- AS1940:2017 – Storage and handling of flammable and combustible liquids
- AS1692 – Steel tanks for flammable and combustible liquids
This ensures your fuel storage solution meets legal and safety requirements.
3. Cost Savings
Avoid costly civil works like concrete bunding. The double-walled design also reduces long-term maintenance costs.
4. Portability and Flexibility
Many self bunded tanks are fully transportable and come fitted with lifting lugs and forklift pockets. Perfect for temporary worksites or mobile operations.
5. Long-Term Durability
With corrosion-resistant coatings and rugged steel construction, these tanks are designed to last in tough Australian environments.
Where Are Self Bunded Tanks Used?
Agriculture
On farms, self bunded tanks provide reliable, on-site diesel storage for tractors, harvesters and generators. They reduce downtime during planting and harvest seasons.
Construction
On large job sites, self bunded fuel tanks eliminate the need for off-site fuelling. Heavy equipment can refuel on-site, boosting efficiency.
Mining
In remote mining regions, these tanks provide secure fuel storage with minimal infrastructure. Their durability makes them ideal for harsh conditions.
Transport & Logistics
Self bunded tanks at depots allow companies to fuel fleets in-house. This improves control over fuel costs and reduces dependence on external suppliers.
Aviation
Specialised self bunded tanks are available for jet fuel and aviation gasoline. These tanks include additional safety features to meet aviation standards.
Self Bunded Tanks vs Single Wall Fuel Tanks
Self Bunded Tanks:
- Built-in secondary containment
- Lower environmental risk
- Easier regulatory compliance
- No need for external bunding
- Portable options available
Single Wall Tanks:
- Require external bunding (costly)
- Higher risk of environmental damage
- More complex to install and certify
Durotank’s Range of Self Bunded Tanks
Durotank is a leading Australian manufacturer of self bunded fuel tanks. Our tanks are built with quality, safety and longevity in mind.
We offer:
- Static and portable models
- Capacities ranging from 250L to 110,000L
- Optional dispensing kits and accessories
- Custom tank solutions for specific industries
All Durotank products are designed to withstand tough Australian conditions and are backed by our expert support team.
How to Choose the Right Self Bunded Tank
When selecting a fuel tank, consider the following:
- Fuel type (diesel, petrol, AdBlue, etc.)
- Required capacity
- Fixed or mobile use
- Access and refuelling needs
- Regulatory requirements in your area
If you’re unsure, our team can provide expert advice to help you choose the best option for your site or operation.
Maintenance Tips for Self Bunded Tanks
To ensure your tank remains compliant and functional:
- Inspect for leaks or corrosion regularly
- Monitor fuel levels and calibrate gauges
- Clean or replace filters and nozzles
- Check bunds and leak detection systems
- Keep a servicing log for audits and safety
Durotank offers maintenance support and spare parts to keep your tank operating at peak performance.
Why Choose Durotank?
Durotank has built a strong reputation across Australia for manufacturing premium-quality fuel storage solutions. Our self bunded tanks are:
- Australian made and owned
- Fully compliant with all relevant standards
- Built from heavy-duty steel
- Customisable to meet your exact needs
- Backed by after-sales service and spare parts
Whether you’re storing fuel on a cattle station in the Outback or powering up a remote construction site, Durotank delivers tanks you can rely on.
Are Self Bunded Tanks Suitable for Long-Term Fuel Storage?
Yes, self bunded tanks are ideal for long-term fuel storage. Their sealed, double-wall design helps reduce contamination from water or debris, while integrated ventilation and access hatches allow for safe inspection and servicing.
If you plan to store fuel for extended periods, be sure to:
- Use fuel stabilisers if needed
- Regularly inspect and clean filters
- Keep records of fuel condition and usage
- Choose a tank size that minimises fuel turnover issues
Durotank’s tanks are designed with longevity in mind, making them a smart choice for long-term operations across all sectors.
Can Self Bunded Tanks Be Moved Between Sites?
Yes, many self bunded tanks are fully portable and designed to move between worksites. This is especially useful in industries like construction, mining, and events where fuel needs shift regularly.
Look for tanks with:
- Certified lifting lugs
- Forklift-compatible base frames
- ISO container compatibility
- Road-legal transport features (for mobile models)
Durotank offers portable fuel tanks that combine mobility with durability ideal for dynamic operations.
Environmental Benefits of Self Bunded Tanks
Beyond compliance, self bunded tanks offer real environmental advantages. Fuel spills can contaminate groundwater, damage ecosystems, and result in fines or shutdowns. A double-walled tank reduces these risks significantly.
Benefits include:
- Preventing soil and water pollution
- Safer fuel handling and dispensing
- Reduced site remediation costs
- Easier environmental reporting and audits
Durotank tanks are a key part of any sustainable fuel management strategy.
Integration with Fuel Management Systems
Modern self bunded tanks can be equipped with fuel management systems to track usage, prevent theft, and improve efficiency. These systems allow operators to monitor:
- Fuel levels in real time
- Refuelling activity by staff or vehicles
- Delivery and consumption logs
- Alerts for overfills or leaks
Durotank can integrate your tank with digital systems for smart fuel tracking and reporting.
Financing and Leasing Options
Purchasing a high-capacity fuel tank is a major investment. To support businesses of all sizes, Durotank offers:
- Flexible finance plans
- Leasing options for short-term projects
- Bulk discounts for fleet orders
- Tailored packages for contractors and rural operations
Speak with our team about payment solutions that suit your timeline and budget.
Customer Success Story: Saving Time and Costs On-Site
Case Study Example:
A regional civil construction company in New South Wales replaced its aging single-wall diesel tanks with Durotank self bunded models. The result?
- Installation time reduced by 60%
- Zero compliance issues during EPA audit
- On-site fuelling saved over 20 hours of downtime per week
- Theft-resistant features cut fuel losses by 15%
Let us help you achieve the same results: reliable storage, smarter operations.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using Self Bunded Tanks
While self bunded tanks are designed to simplify fuel storage, improper use or neglect can lead to safety issues, environmental risks, and unnecessary costs. Here are some of the most common mistakes to avoid:
Ignoring Regular Maintenance
Even the most durable tanks require routine checks. Skipping maintenance can lead to blocked filters, inaccurate gauges, or unnoticed leaks in the bund area.
Overfilling the Tank
Overfilling is a common error that can result in fuel spills even in a self bunded system. Always use level indicators or automatic shut-off features to prevent this.
Choosing the Wrong Size
Purchasing a tank that’s too large or too small can lead to inefficiencies. A tank that’s too large may allow fuel to degrade over time, while one that’s too small can lead to constant refilling and downtime.
Storing the Wrong Fuel Type
Not all self bunded tanks are suitable for all fuel types. Using a diesel tank for petrol, or vice versa, without the correct fittings and certifications can be dangerous and non-compliant.
Poor Site Placement
Placing a tank on unstable ground or in flood-prone areas can compromise safety and structural integrity. Always ensure your tank sits on a stable, level base and complies with local regulations for site placement.
Avoiding these mistakes helps protect your investment, your team, and the environment. Durotank offers expert guidance during and after your purchase to ensure long-term, trouble-free operation.
Request a Quote or Expert Advice
Looking to invest in a self bunded tank? Get in touch with Durotank’s expert team today. We can help you choose the perfect tank for your needs whether it’s a compact mobile unit or a large-capacity storage solution.
Contact Us Now to get started.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Are self bunded tanks legal in all Australian states?
Yes. They meet national safety and environmental regulations, though local council requirements may vary slightly.
Q: How often do I need to inspect my tank?
Monthly visual inspections and annual professional checks are recommended.
Q: Can I store petrol in a self bunded tank?
Yes, but the tank must meet specific venting and fire safety requirements. Durotank can provide petrol-compatible solutions.
Q: Do self bunded tanks come pre-fitted with pumps?
Many do. You can choose models with diesel pumps, meters, hoses, filters, and even solar-powered systems.
Q: How long do these tanks last?
With proper maintenance, Durotank self bunded tanks can last 20+ years.
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My experience with Durotank was exceptional from start to completion.
Emily was patient with us from the start - we took a while to make our decision, but she was always ready to help. She proactively addressed all enquiries and offered comprehensive support. No pressure, just good service.
Furthermore, Durotank was highly accommodating when we requested custom signage. It turned out great and looked fantastic.
I highly recommend Durotank to any organisation seeking a seamless, efficient, and thoroughly professional supplier for diesel tank requirements.
Joe Valesini - AUS Inds Customer Relationship Manager Motion
We had a great experience working with Durotank on our order for a 2,400L water cart trailer, set up for firefighting and tree watering. Their team was responsive throughout the process and delivered exactly what we needed on schedule, despite a very tight timeframe. The build quality is excellent - it’s clear a lot of care and expertise went into the manufacturing. We also value being able to support an Australian-made company and wouldn’t hesitate to recommend Durotank for both their product quality and service.
Joel Courtney – APMS Operations
We considered many other brands of diesel tank but quickly settled on Durotank - they ticked all the boxes. An Australian-made, self bunded quality tank with the ability to load and transport on-site whilst full is a winner.
The team communicated professionally with us regarding modifications and build timing. We will certainly use Durotank again and would confidently recommend them to others.
Andrew Reeves, Ethtec
We had a great experience working with Durotank in purchasing our service trailer, from the enquiry stage to the delivery date the Durotank team were pleasant and very professional. Emily from the sales team answered any and all questions we had about specs and options, working with us to meet expectations and budget limitations. The production team kept us well informed of build schedule and approximate delivery dates. Overall we highly recommend the Durotank team if your looking for a service trailer, value for money is second to none and the quality is top notch.
Aaron Asquith - Leading Hand - Rental Komatsu Australia, Truganina Branch VIC
We purchased Durotank’s 2400 Litre poly water trailer with fire-fighter pump and hose reel, plus optional dribble bar and batter sprays attached.
Our property, Duxton Farm, borders the Kakadu National Park in the Northern Territory. Because of this, early season burning is extremely important to prevent uncontrollable bushfires later in the dry season. The trailer has been an invaluable asset to fire control – always full and ready to go when the call comes.
We’ve found it to be well balanced, empty or full, with the baffle ball system effectively controlling surge. We have had no issues with set-up, towing it with either a Landcruiser or Hilux.
Overall, we’re extremely happy with our purchase and the support from the Durotank team. We’ll be back.
Bruce Connolly, Northern Regional Manager, Duxton Farms
I purchased a Poly Tank Fuel Trailer from DUROTANK in April 2018. DUROTANK builds one of the best fuel trailers I have ever used. The build quality, engineering and attention to detail is unreal. The fuel trailer is rock solid, it tracks extremely well full of fuel at 100km/hr and its road worthy. All of the fittings are hoses are high quality hydraulic hose and crimped fittings so there are no leaks. The Durotank team is very easy to deal with and more than happy to help with any enquiries. The staff are friendly and it is a pleasure to do business with them. I’d buy another one in a heartbeat, that’s for sure
Ben Harris – AB Contract Farming
The Duro Cubes are going extremely well! My guys are very happy with them. Having them already saved us on oil transport on at least 2 occasions so far and has also allowed us to restructure our oil work days and use out of hours oil deliveries to make more efficient use of the time on site.
Field Supervisor, Electricity Distributor (AUSGRID)
The fuel trailer I purchased from DUROTANK is well designed to withstand the harsh mining environment I work in, with no compromise to efficient and reliable fast fuel delivery
Brad Black – Hardrock Blasting Services
I would like to recommend Durotank to anyone that is considering their products. From first enquiry to after the product was delivered the customer experience was flawless.
Nick Dunlop – Kelton Rentals
As a business owner I would highly recommend DUROTANK to any person who is serious about saving money, purchasing and storing their own fuel in bulk, particularly in today’s challenging economic times. DUROTANK supplied us an excellent quality Australian made fuel tank built to the specs that suited out business. Our staff love how easy it is to use and how much time it saves refuelling each week. We purchased the Smartfill System with it and its definitely a worthwhile investment both for use and fuel management. The aftersales service from DUROTANK has been outstanding.
Tony Grace – Lachlan Valley
The supply process from quotation to order placement, being kept informed of manufacturing process and delivery date and final delivery was seamless. I really appreciated the proactive approach to driving a positive Customer Experience. I couldn’t fault the product or service at all.
Peter – Meadows Family Restaurants
All our fuel trailers and on site tanks are supplied by Durotank which are built with strength and quality and always delivered on time, helpful and friendly staff, won’t get better.
