How Contaminants Form in Diesel Tanks & Why Underground Tank Cleaning is Critical

Diesel storage tanks, especially underground ones, are highly vulnerable to contamination. Over time, several factors contribute to the deterioration of diesel quality:

How Contaminants Form:

  • Inadequate Filtration at Terminals
    Poor filtration at fuel terminals can allow dirt and debris to enter diesel tanks.
  • Water Presence in the Tank
    Water can seep into tanks through condensation or leaks, leading to microbial growth.
  • Limited Diesel Shelf Life (6-12 Months)
    Diesel has a limited shelf life. Beyond 6–12 months, it degrades, leading to sludge formation.
  • Corrosion & Rust Formation
    Water presence promotes rust inside tanks, further contaminating the fuel.
  • Sludge & Sediment Buildup
    Over time, dirt, rust, and microbial colonies accumulate at the tank bottom, forming sludge. 

Impact on Diesel Generators (DGs)

Contaminated diesel leads to: 
  • Reduced Fuel Efficiency
  • Higher Maintenance Costs
  • Increased Risk of Equipment Failure 

How to Clean an Underground (UG) Diesel Tank?

We follow a structured, safety-compliant cleaning process to ensure complete tank hygiene:

 

Tank Cleaning Process:

 

1. Emptying the Tank

Using a flameproof, high-flow pump, we safely empty the tank before cleaning begins.

 

2. 360° Internal Tank Cleaning

A minimal quantity of diesel is used in a 360-degree impingement method to dislodge sludge and sediments thoroughly.​

(Note: The diesel used here is discarded after cleaning.)

 

3. 8-Stage Diesel Filtration
The pumped-out diesel is filtered through an 8-stage process to remove all impurities, including rust particles, down to 5 microns.

 

4. Leakage & Structural Integrity Tests
  • Pneumatic Testing to check tank structure.
  • Laser Drip Chart and Thickness Testing to assess the tank’s durability. 

 

5. Diesel Quality Restoration

Once the tank is clean and tested, the filtered diesel is returned safely into the tank. 

Compliance with Industry Standards & Protocols

Our entire cleaning process strictly follows regulatory requirements:

 

  • Fuel Quality Compliance (IS 1460 – Diesel specifications)
  • Tank Cleaning & Maintenance (OISD STD 129)
  • Leakage Prevention & Testing (CPCB Guidelines, PNGRB Notification)
  • Safety & Inspection Protocols (Permit-Based Entry) 
By adhering to these standards, we ensure safety, fuel quality, and environmental responsibility.

Why Choose Our Diesel Tank Cleaning Technology?

  • No Confined Space Entry
    Our method eliminates the need for human entry into tanks, ensuring maximum safety.
  • 100% Internal Cleaning
    Our 360° Impingement Technology ensures complete surface coverage inside the tank.
  • Advanced Filtration & Polishing
    We filter out impurities up to 5 microns, improving fuel quality and preventing microbial growth.
  • Tank Integrity Assurance
    Comprehensive leakage and structural tests guarantee the tank’s long-term reliability.
  • Water Separation Technology
    Protects diesel from future contamination and extends shelf life. 

Conclusion 

Regular underground diesel tank cleaning is essential for: 
  • Fuel efficiency
  • Equipment longevity
  • Safety compliance
  • Reduced operational risks 
Our advanced non-man-entry cleaning technology ensures pure diesel, safe operations, and greater  peace of mind.

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