Installing B20 Equipment
Installing equipment that is compatible with B6 to B20 (6% to 20% biodiesel blended with petroleum diesel) is the same as installing conventional diesel equipment, and the same permits apply. Consult with professionals who are familiar with local conditions and regulations during project planning because different localities may require additional steps.
Determine Fueling Specifications
Before installing equipment, it is important for a retail station operator or fleet manager to estimate the amount of onsite fuel storage needed to determine if an existing tank is available and compatible. If a new tank is necessary, it can be easier and more cost effective in the long term to install a tank that enables future growth, rather than re-enter a site at a later date and disturb operations to add more capacity. This is especially true if the cost of a slightly larger tank is minimal. Another option is to install a multicompartment tank, which can store more than one fuel type for future flexibility. If the fueling location will be private, consider allowing nearby fleet operations to share the fueling site.
Secure Permits, Adhere to State Requirements
The contractor is responsible for ensuring that all permits are secured for the project. A city or county permit will be necessary for fleet and retail fueling site projects. Projects using aboveground tanks may involve additional local fire marshal and state requirements. Some municipalities no longer allow aboveground fuel storage tanks. The contractor will register storage tanks with the state environmental agency, which must be notified 30 days in advance of storing a biodiesel blend above B20 (rare at retail stations) in either an existing or a new tank. The state notifies the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) of new tank installations.
Install Equipment, Prepare the Site, Conduct Testing
To comply with federal code, all current tank manufacturers have provided statements of compatibility for tanks with biodiesel blends up to B100. If an existing tank and associated equipment are not compatible with biodiesel blends above B20, it will be necessary to install a new tank system to accommodate biodiesel (rare at retail stations). Once the storage tank and associated equipment are procured, excavation and other site preparations can begin. Once the dispenser is set, the system can be tested for leakage (tightness test), proper working order, and dispensing accuracy. At about this time, the necessary labeling, decaling, and signage are completed.
Complete Inspection Process and Final Walkthrough
It is the contractor's responsibility to ensure the completed project passes standards and codes set by the city building inspector, state or local fire marshals, or state electrical inspector.
A final walkthrough is conducted between the contractor and client to ensure the completed project meets expectations.
