073 - Quick Turn v Slow Turn
The Fuel Pulse Show
In Episode 73 of the Fuel Pulse Show podcast, host Erik Bjornstad tackles a common misconception in fuel storage management: that quick turn fuel systems are immune to microbial contamination. He explains how microbes can flourish in both slow turn (fuel stored for months or years) and quick turn systems (fuel cycled within days or weeks), as contamination resides not just in the fuel but in biofilms on tank surfaces. The episode outlines practical steps to prevent and address microbial growth including regular sampling, biannual testing, water removal, and proper biocide treatment with...
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072 - Generator Fuel Problems Part 2
The Fuel Pulse Show
Erik Bjornstad continues the discussion on diagnosing generator problems, focusing on when and how to test fuel before accepting a technician's diagnosis that "bad fuel" is causing your generator failures. The episode covers proper fuel testing procedures, sampling techniques, visual inspection clues, and how to interpret lab results to save potentially thousands in unnecessary fuel replacement costs. Erik emphasizes the value of proper diagnostics and consulting with true fuel experts when generator technicians (who often lack fuel expertise) blame fuel quality for system issues. What You'll...
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071 - Generator Fuel Problems Part 1
The Fuel Pulse Show
This episode explores common generator problems and challenges the automatic assumption that fuel is always to blame. Erik Bjornstad outlines a systematic approach to diagnosing generator issues, presenting four key diagnostic steps: checking fuel filters, examining fuel lines, inspecting valves, and looking for additional filters. The episode emphasizes the importance of proper diagnosis to avoid unnecessary expensive solutions like fuel disposal or part replacement. Special attention is given to detecting microbial contamination through various signs and testing methods. The host stresses...
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070 - Winter Outlook
The Fuel Pulse Show
In Episode 70 of the Fuel Pulse Show, Erik Bjornstad provides a comprehensive analysis of the upcoming winter weather forecast across different U.S. regions. Following last year's unusually warm winter, meteorologists predict varying conditions: the South and Lower Midwest expect above-average temperatures until February, the Northeast and Upper Midwest anticipate alternating cold and mild periods, while the West faces early snow followed by rain. The forecast is influenced by three major factors: La Niña conditions, Polar Vortex patterns, and warmer-than-usual Gulf and Pacific water...
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069 - Solid vs. Liquid Biocides
The Fuel Pulse Show
Host Erik Bjornstad discusses solid biocide sticks (also known as bug sticks) and their use in fuel management. While these sticks offer the apparent advantages of easy handling and convenient dosing, they face significant limitations.The episode explores six major problems with solid biocide sticks, including their lack of approval for on-road fuel use, water solubility issues, and potential tank corrosion risks. Bjornstad explains why these limitations make them unsuitable for many non-industrial fuel care scenarios, despite their popularity in specific industrial applications like bulk...
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068 - Back to School - Interpreting Sample Results
The Fuel Pulse Show
This episode of Fuel Pulse Show focuses on interpreting fuel test results, particularly for stored fuel samples. Host Erik Bjornstad guides listeners through various testing methods, including both ASTM D975 standard tests and predictive tests.The episode covers critical measurements like distillation temperatures, API gravity, cloud point, flashpoint, and cetane index, while also addressing water content and microbial testing. Practical solutions for addressing failing test results are provided, making this a comprehensive guide for fuel maintenance professionals. What You'll Learn: How to...
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067 - Back to School - Fuel Sampling Part 2
The Fuel Pulse Show
This episode explores proper fuel sampling techniques and locations for different types of fuel testing. Erik Bjornstad explains how contaminants concentrate at tank bottoms, making sampling location crucial for accurate test results. He details specific sampling heights for different tests, introduces the bacon bomb sampler, and provides guidance on sample handling. The episode covers testing for physical properties, microbial contamination, and water content, emphasizing that bottom samples (3-6 inches from bottom) provide the best diagnostic value for comprehensive testing. The discussion...
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066 - Back to School - Fuel Sampling Part 1
The Fuel Pulse Show
This episode explores proper fuel sampling techniques as part of effective fuel maintenance. Erik Bjornstad discusses the critical aspects of where and how to take fuel samples to ensure accurate testing results. He explains that sample location significantly impacts test outcomes, with different tank depths containing varying levels of contaminants. The episode covers specific sampling depths, proper port selection, and why dead bottom samples should be avoided. Bjornstad emphasizes that sampling technique directly affects the reliability of test results and their representation of the...
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065 - Back to School - Fuel Polishing
The Fuel Pulse Show
In this episode, Erik Bjornstad explains the comprehensive process of fuel polishing. He covers when to polish fuel based on test results, particularly the ASTM water and sediment test. The episode details two main methods: inline and off-site polishing, with a focus on the sweep, treat, and circulate methodology. Bjornstad provides specific guidance on chemical treatments, filtration systems, and the importance of proper timing and sequence. He emphasizes the need for multiple passes through the filtration system and proper documentation before and after samples. What You'll Learn: How to...
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064 - Back to School - USLD and Corrosion
The Fuel Pulse Show
In this educational episode, Erik Bjornstad explores the relationship between biodiesel and corrosion in fuel systems. He explains that while pure biodiesel (B100) can have corrosive properties, the common low-percentage blends (B2-B20) used in today's diesel fuel don't pose significant corrosion risks. The episode clarifies that modern fuel systems using materials like stainless steel and aluminum are well-equipped to handle these blends. The real concerns with biodiesel additions center around increased water retention and potential microbe growth, rather than corrosion issues that are more...
info_outlineThis episode discusses the effects of prolonged hot weather on stored fuel and offers preventative measures. Heat accelerates fuel degradation, increases water buildup, and promotes microbial growth.
The host recommends three key steps to combat these issues: 1) Regularly check for water in storage tanks and remove it promptly. 2) Treat fuel with a stabilizer early in summer to slow degradation. 3) Conduct microbial testing, preferably using ATP By Filtration methodology, at the beginning and end of summer. If elevated microbial levels are detected, treat with biocide. These proactive steps can help maintain fuel quality and prevent costly problems in hot weather conditions.
What You'll Learn:
- How prolonged heat exposure affects stored fuel
- The impact of temperature on fuel evaporation and composition
- Why hot weather increases water buildup in fuel tanks
- The connection between heat, water, and microbial growth in fuel
- Three key strategies to protect fuel during hot weather
- The advantages of quantifiable microbial testing methods
- Why ATP by Filtration is recommended for microbial testing
- How to approach microbial testing if you can't afford specialized equipment
- The importance of proactive fuel management in hot weather
Ideas Worth Sharing:
Here are three notable quotes from the podcast episode:
- "Heat affects fuel by affecting its evaporation, changing the fuel's composition, accelerating fuel instability, increasing water buildup in the fuel, and by making microbial contamination markedly easier to develop."
- "Microbial contamination is killed by adding biocide to the contaminated fuel. It is not killed, it is not solved, by removing water, contrary to what some in the industry might want to say."
- "Doing ATP by filtration methodology requires a specialized piece of equipment called the Illuminometer. If we had to name a downside for ATP by filtration, the start-up cost could be a little higher."
Resources:
Show Notes:
Introduction [00:00:00]
Recap and Context [00:01:00]
- Follow-up to the previous episode on hot weather and fuel
- Focus on practical implications and protective measures
Effects of Heat on Stored Fuel [00:02:00]
- Increased evaporation rate
- Changes in fuel composition
- Acceleration of chemical reactions in fuel
Water-Related Issues [00:10:00]
- Increased water dissolution in fuel at higher temperatures
- Cycle of water absorption and release due to temperature changes
- Specific concerns for ethanol-blended gasoline
Microbial Contamination [00:14:00]
- Link between heat, water, and microbial growth
- Explanation of how microbes thrive in fuel systems
Best Practice Recommendations [00:16:00]
1. Regular water checks [00:17:00]
- Using tank stick and water paste
- Importance of immediate water removal
2. Early fuel stabilization [00:20:00]
- Adding stabilizer at the beginning of summer
- Options for late treatment
3. Microbial testing [00:22:00]
- Importance of quantifiable results
- ATP by filtration methodology
- Alternative testing options
Timing of Microbial Testing [00:29:00]
- Recommendation to test at the beginning and end of summer
Summary and Conclusion [00:30:00]
- Recap of main points
- Importance of proactive planning and commitment to fuel management
Closing Remarks [00:32:00]
- Call to subscribe and rate the podcast