Fuel Polishing and Tank Cleaning
A fuel polishing system circulates stored diesel through filters to remove water, sediment and sludge before they reach engines. Our current unit is the IPA 9046F, a fuel tank sweeper on a steel cart with an air-operated diaphragm pump and filtration. Facilities with standby generators, fleets with bulk diesel storage tanks and equipment yards use polishing to keep stored fuel usable.
How to choose
- Portable or fixed: a cart serves several tanks on a schedule. A fixed system serves one tank, such as a generator tank.
- Pump power: air-operated pumps need a compressor. Electric units need an outlet near the tank.
- Filtration: check the filter type and whether it separates water as well as particles.
- Tank access: make sure the suction wand or hose can reach the bottom of your tank, where water and sludge collect.
Common questions
Why does stored diesel go bad?
Diesel picks up water through condensation, and microbes can grow where water meets fuel. The result is sludge that clogs filters and injectors.
How often should I polish?
It depends on how long fuel sits and on your climate. Sites with standby fuel often test and polish on a schedule; see facilities and backup power.
