Industries such as agriculture, construction and logistics often rely on on-site fuel storage to support daily operations. However, effective fuel management extends beyond simply storing fuel – it includes tracking consumption, preventing loss, ensuring security and reducing operational costs. In this article, we explore strategies and products to help these businesses optimise fuel management practices.
Why Optimising Fuel Management Matters
Fluctuating fuel prices are slashing margins for industries that consume large volumes of diesel fuel to power vehicles, machinery and equipment. In many of these cases, companies have resorted to the convenience and cost saving that comes with installing on-site fuel storage and dispensing, but more effective fuel management systems and strategies can reduce waste, prevent theft and ensure a continuous supply.
What Improvements Can Be Made?
1. Bunded Fuel Storage Tanks: Reliable and Secure Fuel Storage
Bunded fuel storage is becoming an environmental necessity, but it also has fuel management benefits. For a start, the double-skinned design of a bunded tank protects against leaks and spills, and provided the bund is kept clean, spilt fuel may still be useable.
The second, outer skin also serves to physically protect the inner tank and the fuel against external impacts; even if the outer skin is pierced, the inner skin is likely to remain intact unless the impact is severe.
Another advantage of a bunded fuel tank is that it protects the fuel against extremes of temperature that can create condensation and bacteria (‘bugs in fuel’) inside the tank. These contaminants can quickly affect the quality of the fuel and the performance efficiency of vehicles and machinery.
Tanks-UK offers a range of Plastic Bunded Fuel Storage Tanks suitable for agricultural, construction, commercial, industrial and logistics environments. Available in various capacities, these tanks ensure robust containment and feature UV-resistant materials to endure harsh outdoor conditions.
2. Fuel Management Systems: Monitoring for Efficiency and Security
A fuel management system provides real-time data on fuel consumption, helping businesses track usage, identify trends, and detect anomalies such as sudden drops due to leaks or unauthorised use. These systems are invaluable for companies managing multiple vehicles or machinery on a single site, as they enable detailed tracking and reporting, which can be essential for cost analysis and fuel optimisation.
For reliable solutions, Tanks-UK’s Fuel Management Systems offer advanced tracking features that are highly adaptable for industries needing precise control over their fuel assets. Many of these systems include remote monitoring, data logging, and even compatibility with fleet management software, allowing managers to adjust refuelling practices to minimise fuel wastage.
3. Digital Tank Gauges and Flow Meters: Accurate Fuel Level Monitoring
Monitoring fuel levels with digital tank gauges and flow meters provides visibility over stored fuel and helps to predict refuelling needs accurately. Automated fuel gauges eliminate the need for manual checks and provide alerts when fuel levels drop to predefined limits. Flow meters add another layer of tracking by measuring the exact volume of fuel dispensed to each vehicle or machine, ensuring accurate usage records.
Tanks-UK offers a range of Tank Gauges & Meters suited to different tank sizes and requirements. Digital gauges with remote readout capabilities allow managers to monitor tank levels from a central location, making it easier to manage fuel supply in real time.
4. Portable Fuel Bowsers: Flexibility for On-Site Refuelling
Portable fuel bowsers are particularly useful for businesses needing to refuel machinery or vehicles across multiple sites or remote locations. Designed for easy transport, these fuel storage units provide a secure, flexible refuelling solution that reduces downtime, ensuring that machines are always fuelled and operational when needed.
For businesses requiring robust and compliant portable fuel storage, Tanks-UK’s Road Tow Diesel Bowsers are built to meet rigorous safety and environmental standards and are rated for highway towing. For situations such as farming, where the bowser is only deployed off-road, Site Tow Diesel Bowsers offer a more cost-effective but equally robust alternative. All Tanks-UK diesel bowsers include lockable lids, sturdy chassis and optional dispensing pumps, making them highly adaptable for industries on the move, such as agriculture and construction.
5. Security Solutions for Fuel Tanks: Preventing Theft and Vandalism
Fuel theft is a growing concern, and implementing security measures around fuel storage can deter unauthorised access and minimise losses. Secure fuel tanks with lockable lids and anti-siphon valves offer effective protection against theft, while a bunded tank adds another layer of deterrence and makes siphoning difficult. Adding surveillance equipment or security lighting around fuel storage areas can further enhance security.
Accessories from Tanks-UK, such as anti-theft alarms, flowmeters and gauges provide extra peace of mind. Some fuel management systems also allow remote monitoring, alerting managers to any unexpected activity or attempts to access tanks after hours.
Best Practices for Improving Fuel Management
Efficient fuel management depends not only on systems but procedures. Establishing and maintaining a regular schedule of checks will ensure your fuel supply will operate at maximum efficiency. A schedule might include:
- Tracking Fuel Data Regularly – Review consumption patterns helps in identifying peak usage times and potential inefficiencies.
- Scheduling Routine Maintenance – Regularly inspect tanks, hoses and dispensing equipment to avoid blockages, leaks and contamination.
- Setting Up Reorder Thresholds – By setting reorder alerts, businesses can avoid the risks associated with running out of fuel unexpectedly.
- Securing Storage Areas – Keep storage areas well-lit and secure, with restricted access to deter theft.
For further help and advice on improving your fuel management, call Tanks-UK on 01953 665940 or email sales@tanks-uk.com.