Above-Ground Petrol Tank and Fuel System Installation for Fowey Harbour

Objective:

The objective of this project was to provide a safe and efficient fuel storage and distribution system for the harbour, ensuring a reliable supply of fuel for vessels while overcoming spatial limitations and staying within the remit and legislative concerns of the local authorities.

Challenges:

Space constraints: The harbour’s limited space posed a significant challenge for installing a conventional above-ground petrol tank. Finding a suitable location for the tank proved to be a major obstacle.

Safety and environmental concerns: The proximity of the tank to the sea and the need to ensure safe operations and prevent any potential environmental hazards required careful consideration and planning.

Accessibility and usability: Designing a fuel system that would be easily accessible for refueling operations while considering the requirements of different vessel types and sizes was crucial.

Full overhaul of the harbours outdated electrical system.

Solution:

Tank Sighting: To overcome the space limitations, A specialized aerial construction platform, was manufactured that was capable of flying the above-ground petrol tank. This innovative approach allowed the tank to be elevated above the sea, utilising airspace rather than land. Structural engineer specialist were used for consultation and when we were happy with the weight and fixing materials the platform was drawn and installed on site.

Offset fill point: As the tank could not be placed directly above the desired location, an offset fill point was established on rented land, nest to an existing diesel fill point in a stainless steel cabinet. This allowed fuel to be pumped from the ground to the tank via suitable pipework system.

Fuel pump and pipework monitoring system: Alongside the tank installation, a modern fuel pump system with card payment terminal and pipework monitoring system were implemented. The new fuel pumps were strategically positioned to cater to different vessel sizes, ensuring efficient refueling operations. The pipework monitoring system offered real-time monitoring of pipework irregularities and a tank gauging system was installed into the existing diesel tank and new petrol tank with a remote contents system and allowed the harbours office to monitor fuel levels and implement an auto ordering system with the fuel company, ensuring accurate inventory management and timely replenishment.

A complete rebuild of the harbours existing electrical system completed by our complex electricians to bring the electrical system upto current specifications. The build not only overhauls the existing supply for the pumps but incorporated the new monitoring equipment and harbour lighting to ensure all users of the installation were safe and the harbour was of a very high safety standard.

Results

Space optimisation: The bespoke construction enabled the installation of the above-ground petrol tank without compromising valuable land space in the harbour. The solution maximised the available airspace, offering a practical and efficient solution for fuel storage.

Safety and environmental compliance: The implemented system adhered to stringent safety regulations and mitigated the risk of potential environmental hazards. Careful design and monitoring ensured that fuel operations were conducted responsibly and with minimal impact on the surrounding ecosystem.

Improved efficiency: The new fuel pumps and pipework monitoring system enhanced the efficiency of refuelling operations. Vessel owners and operators benefited from a reliable and accessible fuel supply, reducing downtime and enhancing overall productivity in the harbour.

The new electrical system ensured safety for all users and gave room for future upgrades in a secure, safe and well maintained system

Conclusion:

The installation of the above-ground petrol tank, new fuel pumps, and pipework monitoring system for the harbour presented unique challenges due to space constraints. The innovative approach involving a bespoke platform for the tank and an offset fill point proved to be a successful solution. The project demonstrated how creative thinking, collaboration, and technological advancements can overcome significant obstacles, resulting in a safe, efficient, and reliable fuel storage and distribution system for the harbour.