E10 - TSG is here to help....
In the summer of 2021, the government mandated the use of E10 petrol throughout the UK, as part of its ambitious target to reduce emissions to net-zero by 2050. The introduction of E10 has the potential to cause significant damage and corrosion to forecourt equipment, due to the higher ethanol content. These problems will not occur immediately – but instead will gradually present over time. Thankfully, it is not too late to take action!
What is E10?
E10 petrol contains up to 10% renewable ethanol, which will help to reduce carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions associated with petrol vehicles and tackle climate change. Ethanol is predominately a cleaning agent, so boosting the percentage from 5 to 10% increases the risk of filter blockages and potentially leads to environmental problems if you have a leak.
Do you know the Effects of Ethanol?
Ethanol is prone to attack old gaskets and some of the older jointing compounds. We are aware Heldite has not been used for some time, but some sites still have pipework joints made with this compound and/or cork-type gaskets. When they leak, vapours can enter the manhole chamber, mix with the moisture in the air and cause significant damage and corrosion. Typically, forecourts that don’t have direct fills, and chambers that are rarely inspected, can incur such problems. Monthly or even quarterly checks would help to identify any issues.
What you need to consider:
- Which grade to stock
- Increasing the number of tanks to stock both
- Tank inspections / Non-destructive testing (NDT)
- Clear labelling
- Fuel testing, sampling & polishing
To mitigate the risks and damage to your tanks you need to avoid:
- Tank lining failures
- Contamination
- Tank & manhole corrosion
TSG can handle all of your concerns and remove the risk of litigation.
What you need in place:
- Wetstock management
- Regular service & maintenance checks
For more information contact TSG today: 0333 015 3001
Or download the E10 brochure