As temperatures rise, so do the risks to your aviation fuel storage systems. Summer heat can quietly wreak havoc on fuel quality, tank integrity, and overall system performance. Understanding how heat affects your fuel farm—and how to counteract it—can make all the difference in keeping operations safe and efficient.
1. Vapor Expansion and Overpressurization
Warm weather causes fuel to expand. In tightly sealed tanks, that expansion can lead to increased pressure inside the vessel, potentially stressing tank walls and fittings. If tanks aren't vented properly, it can result in system failures or safety hazards.
Tip: Check venting systems and pressure relief valves as part of your summer inspection routine.
2. Increased Risk of Water Contamination
Hot, humid days accelerate condensation inside above-ground tanks, especially when there are large temperature swings between day and night. That water can settle at the bottom of the tank, leading to microbial growth or phase separation in certain fuels.
Tip: Perform regular water draws and monitor tank levels closely during temperature shifts.
3. Fuel Degradation and Microbial Growth
Higher temperatures, combined with the presence of water, speed up fuel oxidation and promote microbial activity, particularly in diesel blends and Jet A. These microbes create sludge that clogs filters and corrodes tank interiors.
Tip: Stay proactive with biocide treatments and regularly inspect for signs of contamination.
4. Impact on Pumping and Meter Accuracy
Heat doesn’t just affect the fuel—it also impacts equipment performance. Warmer temperatures can cause meters to read inaccurately and seals to degrade faster, especially in older systems.
Tip: Schedule summer meter calibration and inspect hoses, seals, and reels more frequently during periods of extreme heat.
5. Protecting Your System in the Heat
While you can’t control the weather, you can take steps to protect your system from its effects. Consider installing shade structures over tanks, insulating exposed components, and scheduling fuel deliveries during cooler parts of the day.
Tip: Keep a detailed seasonal maintenance log to track how your system performs as temperatures climb.
Stay Ahead of the Heat with Rebel Services
At Rebel Services, we help airports and aviation professionals keep their fuel farms safe and compliant year-round. From inspections and calibrations to full fuel system installations, we’re here to help you stay ready for anything.
Ready to prepare your fuel farm for summer? Contact us today. (link to contact page)
