Essential guidelines for maintaining fuel equipment during winter conditions
1. Scientifically Manage Fuel Storage
- In winter, pay attention to freeze protection during fuel storage.
- Choose fuel of the appropriate grade based on the local minimum temperature to prevent condensation from affecting flow.
- After operation, try to maintain a certain amount of fuel in the fuel storage container to reduce condensation inside the container.
- If the equipment is idle for an extended period, empty the fuel in the fuel storage container to prevent residual fuel from freezing and causing cracks in the tank or pipelines.
2. Ensure Equipment Warming
- Provide insulation to protect the equipment from cold temperatures.
- Wrap key areas of the mobile refueler, such as the tank and piping, with insulation or a thermal jacket to reduce heat loss and maintain the internal temperature.
- Store the equipment in an indoor garage or temporary shelter to avoid prolonged exposure to freezing temperatures.
- If outdoor parking is necessary, place cold-weather mats underneath the equipment to mitigate the effects of low ground temperatures.
3. Strengthen Pipeline Maintenance and Inspection
- Pipelines are prone to freezing and cracking in winter and require special maintenance.
- Regularly inspect them for signs of aging and damage, and replace any potential problems promptly.
- Preheat the pipelines before and after operation.
- Start the equipment to allow the fuel to flow slowly to prevent sudden freezing and freezing of the fuel in the pipelines.
- If signs of freezing are observed in the pipelines, do not force the equipment or strike them. Use warm water to slowly thaw them to prevent rupture.
4. Strengthen Equipment Inspection and Protection
- In winter, equipment inspections should be conducted more frequently to prevent the risk of freezing and cracking.
- Regularly inspect the equipment's valves, joints, and other components for flexibility and to check for any signs of sticking or leaking seals due to low temperatures.
- Check the antifreeze level to ensure the equipment's cooling system (if any) is functioning properly in low temperatures.
- Before each operation, thoroughly inspect the equipment to ensure there is no ice or condensation before restarting.
- After each operation, promptly clean any snow and frost from the equipment's surface to prevent melted water from refreezing and damaging the equipment.