Aboveground Storage Tanks for Fuel
What Are Aboveground Storage Tanks?
Aboveground Storage Tanks (AST) are safe containers for flammable fluids, such petroleum and hazardous waste, that are located above ground. These tanks come in a variety of shapes and sizes, which make them a great option when choosing the best solution to store your fuel. Find out more about these tanks by reading about their key benefits.
7 Benefits of Aboveground Storage Tanks for Fuel
As businesses and organizations continue to depend on fuel to keep operations running, choosing a safe and efficient storage solution is more important than ever. When it comes to fuel storage, there are two primary options: above ground and underground tanks. While underground systems were once the standard, above ground storage tanks are becoming increasingly popular due to their many advantages. Here are seven of those key benefits.
1) Cost Effective
Above ground storage tanks are typically more cost-effective than underground systems when it comes to installation, maintenance, and repairs. Because they don’t require excavation or specialized installation equipment, upfront costs are significantly lower. Their accessible design also makes routine inspections and servicing faster and more affordable.
Another key advantage is visibility. Above ground tanks allow for early detection of potential leaks, making issues easier to address before they become serious problems. This not only improves safety but can also greatly reduce cleanup expenses compared to underground systems.
2) Longer Lifespan
Above ground fuel tanks generally have a longer lifespan than underground systems. While all tanks eventually wear down and require replacement, underground tanks are more prone to corrosion due to constant exposure to soil moisture and factors like acidity levels. These conditions can accelerate deterioration. In contrast, above ground tanks are not subject to the same environmental stresses, allowing them to last longer and perform more reliably over time.
3) Safer
Above ground storage tanks are widely regarded as a safer option than underground systems. Their accessibility allows for quicker inspections, making it easier to spot and resolve potential issues before they escalate. In addition, because they are not buried, above ground tanks are less vulnerable to groundwater contamination—a common concern with underground storage. It is easier to contain and remedy any leaks with an aboveground storage tank. Many of these types of tanks also offer a double-walled steel structure, which protects them from external damage. And should a leak occur, detecting it is easier when the tank is aboveground.
4) Easier to Monitor
One of the key advantages of an above ground fuel storage tank is how easy it is to monitor. Because the tank is fully visible, you can quickly check fuel levels at any time, making it simpler to plan deliveries and manage inventory. Many above ground systems also include built-in sensors and monitoring technology that can alert you to issues like leaks or low fuel levels.
In addition, these tanks are typically installed in accessible locations—such as parking areas or near storage facilities—allowing for routine inspections, maintenance, and replacement with minimal disruption. This ease of access adds another significant benefit to choosing an above ground solution.
5) Mobility
An aboveground storage tank is designed for mobility. So, if you think you will ever need to move your tank, then this is the more versatile choice.
6) Eco-Friendly
Many above ground storage tanks are built with environmental protection in mind. For instance, double-wall (double-skinned) designs add an extra layer of defense against leaks and spills. These tanks are also commonly equipped with spill containment systems to help prevent fuel from reaching the surrounding environment if an incident occurs.
In contrast, leaks from underground tanks can go unnoticed for extended periods because they aren’t easily visible for inspection. Often, a problem is only discovered once there are signs like damp soil or noticeable fuel odors—by which point contamination may have already occurred. With above ground tanks, potential issues are easier to detect early, allowing for faster intervention and reduced environmental impact.
7) Nice Variety
There is nice variety when you opt for aboveground storage tanks as there are different sizes for these tanks available. A double walled storage tank is a temporary or permanent high-quality tank solution, and you can make the decision of the size of the tank depending on the amount of fuel you need. There are also solar powered models on the market as well.
Aboveground Fuel Storage Tank Considerations
There are many advantages to using aboveground storage tanks for storing fuel. An aboveground storage tank provides solutions for storing fuel in a single location for use by multiple assets or backup generator fuel, which provides a variety of applications including commercial, industrial and municipal applications. When choosing the best tank for your business, there are certain considerations you must think about. Requirement such as cost, mobility, and safety concerns for your business come into play.
Here are five practical applications when using a fuel storage tank:
- If you are a small distribution company, you may use a fuel storage tank by having your trucks refuel at the on-site tank versus a retail fuel island.
- Construction companies often store fuel in an above ground tank on the job site in order to fill their equipment on the site so they do not need to go off-site, thus saving time.
- Distribution companies may use an above ground storage tank to fuel vehicles that may be on the road during their regularly scheduled mobile fueling service window.
- Shipping companies use a fuel storage tanks at an airport to fuel ground support equipment, which speeds up the day-to-day operation.
- Multi-department first responder organizations use fuel storage tanks that are located throughout an area to assist with firefighting efforts.
Need Fueling for Aboveground Storage Tanks?
Above ground storage tanks comes in a variety of sizes and thus filling them up requires different standards. And due to the flexibility of these tanks, they are a common fuel tank for many companies. If you need fueling services for your aboveground storage tank, then please contact us today. Order now.
Order Now
When you reach out, we can go over our fueling services and come up with a plan of action that works best for you and your operations.
More About Our Fueling Services