A lot of customers are wondering “how long can you store off-road diesel”. In this article, we will explain the shelf life of off-road diesel. Keep on reading to know more related topics about off-road diesel.
How Long Can You Store Off-Road Diesel?
Guidelines for Long Term Fuel Storage of Diesel
For those reliant on off-road diesel fuel, knowing its shelf life is essential. Understanding how long can you store off-road diesel before its quality declines, and identifying signs of degradation in your storage tank, are key considerations for optimal use and maintenance. Off-road diesel is used to power agricultural equipment, home heating systems, construction machinery, and aircraft. It is essential to the daily lives of many Americans across the country. Although this form of diesel functions similarly to regular diesel, off-road or red-dyed diesel enjoys a tax-exempt status, and its use is regulated by the federal government.
Now, on to the question: How long diesel fuel can be stored? Read on to find out.
How Long Diesel Fuel Can Be Stored?
Determining precisely how long does diesel fuel last, or the shelf life of diesel fuel in storage, can be challenging. Typically, off-road diesel can be stored for up to 1 year without the need for additional additives, fuel stability treatments, or biocides.
On average, diesel fuel lasts between 6 to 12 months in storage. But, with ideal storage and maintenance, this timeframe can increase. To keep diesel fuel good for longer, it helps to store it cool, around 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Adding biocides and stabilizers also preserves its quality.
When keeping red diesel for more than a year, adding biocide or a stabilizer agent may be necessary to prevent microbial growth or oxidation in the storage tank and the gradual degradation of the fuel.
Since ultra-low sulfur diesel (ULSD) has gained popularity, it has made fuel a lot more unstable; under the best conditions, it’s possible to store off-road diesel for a maximum of two to three years.
One of the biggest threats to the long-term storage of off-road diesel is moisture.
Given time, water in the form of condensation will form in storage containers and contribute to the growth of bacteria, which can cause the fuel to take on a sludgy consistency.
Although degraded diesel may still function in equipment or vehicles, the old diesel fuel will begin to cause severe damage to sensitive internal components such as the fuel injector or your diesel engine.
So while you now know the answer to “Does dyed diesel go bad?” how can you make it last longer with proper storage?
How Long Does Diesel Take To Go Bad?
Best Ways to Store Diesel Fuel
In order to get the answer to the question “How long does diesel last?” The best approach to successfully keep the diesel fuel storage life for a year or more is to consider how the fuel is stored carefully.
Ideally, off road diesel tank should remain well-insulated from moisture and temperatures above 70 degrees Fahrenheit to inhibit fuel degradation.
Here are the three main ways to properly store off-road diesel for future use:
1. Portable Cans
When storing limited quantities of off-road diesel, 2- or 5-gallon steel jerry cans are an excellent choice.
For optimal fuel preservation, opt for portable cans that comply with OSHA, DOT, CARB, and EPA standards.
While plastic storage cans are acceptable, it’s crucial to ensure the material is made from HDPE (high-density polyethylene), as other forms of plastic can begin to break down rapidly in prolonged contact with diesel fuel.
It’s worth mentioning that while HDPE may degrade at a slower rate, this material is not impervious to degradation over extended periods and can eventually lead to leaks or contaminate the fuel.
2. Storage Drums
Another option is to store off-road diesel in 55-gallon drums, upright or horizontally, on steel storage racks.
This method is well-suited for individuals who use dyed diesel in large amounts on demand at various job sites.
It’s important to note that, like with portable cans, it’s necessary to fill the storage drums to the brim and endeavor. This is to keep them full whenever possible. Any air left at the top of the tank can contribute to condensation, which accelerates the degradation of your diesel shelf life.
3. Above Ground or Below Ground Stand-Alone Tank
The single most secure way to store large quantities of off-road diesel is with a stand-alone tank reserved exclusively for this fuel.
The capacities of these tanks range from as little as 100 gallons up to 1,000 gallons or more.
To help alleviate issues with fuel degradation from temperature fluctuations, keep these storage tanks in a dry, cool environment to prevent getting water in the fuel.
For improved preservation of off-road diesel in these tanks, consider placing the tank below ground.
If you go with a tank to keep your fuel stored, invest in a tank cleaning service every one to two years.
It’s important to note that OSHA compliance standards require storage tanks with a capacity of 1,000 gallons or more located above ground to be protected by a barricade to prevent collision with vehicles and equipment.
In addition, the area surrounding the tank should be graded to ensure any spills or leaks do not come into contact with other structures and potentially reactive materials, causing chain reactions.
Understanding Diesel Fuel Storage And Its Longevity
When it comes to diesel fuel storage, there are several factors to consider. To ensure the fuel remains in optimal condition, you need to know the shelf life of diesel. Understanding its longevity is crucial for those who rely on it for their machinery and equipment.
How long can you store off-road diesel? Does diesel go bad?
One common question many have is, “Does diesel go bad?” Yes, diesel, like many substances, can degrade. Its longevity is shaped by a combination of environmental and storage factors. Diesel fuel is composed of organic compounds. Over time, these compounds can break down, especially when exposed to contaminants like water, dirt, or microbes. This degradation can make the fuel less efficient and even harm the machinery it powers.
How long is diesel good for?
Another question many are wondering is, “How long is diesel good for?” When stored in optimal environments, diesel has the potential to remain viable for a duration spanning from half a year up to a full year without undergoing major quality loss. However, its shelf life can be extended with the right additives and storage practices. It’s essential to store diesel in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. Regularly checking the storage tanks for water or contaminants can also help prolong the fuel’s life.
Now you know how long you can You store off-road diesel in your diesel fuel storage tank. What’s Next?
Now that you know the answer to “How long can you store diesel fuel”. At Fuel Logic, we provide convenient, no-contract off-road diesel delivery services that save our clients valuable time and money.
We accommodate orders of any volume, whether it’s only a few gallons a month to maintain farm equipment or a bulk diesel fuel order for an entire fleet of vehicles.
Our services are available nationwide 365 days a year, and we assign dedicated account managers to every order to ensure rapid, hassle-free delivery every time.
Visit us online today to learn more about our off-road diesel delivery solutions.
