Diesel Fuel Deck Fill

 

Why the Diesel Fuel Deck Fill Deserves Respect

The often-neglected deckfill is the first defence against water getting to the fuel tank, where it can encourage the growth of HUM (Hydrocarbon Utilizing microorganisms) which are bacteria, yeasts and fungi.

Inspect Diesel Fuel Deck Fill from Marine Diesel Basics

From page 21 Marine Diesel Basics 1

Inspect the Fitting Regularly

Checking the o-ring is in place and in good condition is cheap insurance. Double check after every fuel fill that he deck fill is closed correctly and snug tight. A damaged or missing o-ring or unsecured deck fill plate will allow water to enter the fuel tank.

The o-ring should be:

  • correct size for the fitting
  • not twisted
  • not nicked or kinked

Water in a fuel tank can encourage the growth of HUM (Hydrocarbon Utilizing Microorganisms) which thrive in the fuel/water interface. In ideal conditions, a single cell weighing 1/1,000,000 of a gram can grow to 10 kilograms within 12 hours.

Best practice is to minimize as much as possible any water getting into the fuel tank(s), to drain the bottom of the tank of water from time to time and to change fuel filters on a regular schedule.

 

 

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