Red diesel tanks 'should be checked regularly'

18 August 2011

Posted by Bob Burton

Individuals who use red diesel should take care to check their storage tanks on a regular basis for problems such as mould build-up.

The Farmer's Guardian noted a combination of higher temperatures in the summer and increased moisture caused by higher biofuel levels could result in fungal growth accumulating.

Therefore, Ian Currie of Farm Guard advised that tanks should be examined for this problem at least once a month.

He noted the corrosive fungus could lead to problems with machinery if it gets into a fuel system and damages filters and injectors.

"Many farmers and contractors have concerns about long-term fuel storage, especially in combines and self-propelled machines which are stored for long periods of time," Mr Currie added.

It could be more important to ensure vehicles are well looked after, as new rules about red diesel that have practically eliminated sulphur have led to biofuel levels rising to around seven per cent.

Last month, it was also stated by the Farmer's Guardian that simple maintenance measures can improve the fuel efficiency of a tractor by up to ten per cent.

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