Fuel Biocide Solutions
Microbial growth occurs in both conventional crude oil-based fuel and biofuels. Changes in fuels and fuel handling since the introduction of biodiesel blends have led to a substantial increase in the incidence and severity of problems caused by microbial growth.
Bacterial microbes need oxygen, water and nutrients to exist and no fuel is 100% free of water. However, if the water content is too high microbial growth rapidly accelerates and can result in a variety of problems including blocked filters, injection fouling and corrosion.
SBZ Fuel Biocide Solutions is designed to tackle the problem, through regular additive treatments or shock-dosing contaminated fuel.
How water gets into fuel
- When biodiesel has not been adequately dried during the manufacturing process
- In storage on the surface where there is free-breathing tankage
- During transfers between the production plant and final customer
(including railcar, road car and ship transfers).
Applications
As part of a good housekeeping strategy to minimize the risk of microbial growth SBZ recommends the rigorous removal of free water. In addition to this, a regular dosing regime of biocide at a low treat rate will reduce the need for shock treatments. User friendly, onsite test kits are also available to monitor fuel and ensure that any microbial activity is kept at a safe level.
If shock treatments are required SBZ can provide technical advice and supply the right biocide.
Who should use them?
Fuel Storage Terminals, Blenders and Distributors, Vehicle Fleet Operators, Fuel Retailers, Ship Owner/Operators and Marinas.
