Microbes are ubiquitous, but once they’ve entrenched themselves in your fuel system, half-measures may prove ineffective in eliminating them. Without addressing the root cause by removing free water and significantly reducing the active colony, microbial resurgence is likely. While achieving complete sterilization of a fuel system may be elusive, it’s possible to manage and mitigate biological activity to a level where it ceases to be a concern.
Proactive measures, including the use of effective biocides, are key. Avoid the temptation of “maintenance dosing,” as these sub-lethal treatments can exacerbate the issue. Instead, opt for periodic “kill doses” to systematically target and eliminate microbial colonies. Establishing a testing program can determine the frequency of these treatments based on the system’s susceptibility to re-infestation.
Water removal is paramount in preventing future contamination. Implementing a robust water removal program significantly reduces the risk of microbial proliferation.
For severe infestations, a multi-step approach is recommended:
- Drain the tank to remove all free water.
- Administer a potent biocide to shock the contaminated tank.
- Conduct a thorough tank cleaning to eradicate any remaining traces of microbes.
- Maintain a proactive regimen of periodic biocide treatments to safeguard a clean system.
- Install efficient filters at tank outlets or dispensers to prevent the passage of microbes into equipment, where they can cause blockages and engine deposits.
Follow dosing instructions diligently and periodically retest the tank to ensure the effectiveness of the antimicrobial protocol. While some may opt to forgo tank cleaning due to logistical challenges, be mindful that this decision could lead to an accumulation of dead microbes, necessitating frequent filter replacements.
Remember, microbes require water to proliferate. By diligently maintaining a water-free environment within the tank, microbial growth can be effectively mitigated
Recent Comments