Module 3

Fuel Piping, Drainage & Biofuels

Designing reliable delivery systems and managing the complexities of modern alternative fuels.

3.1Fuel Piping Systems

Rigid Piping (Steel/FRP)

Traditional, highly durable, but labor-intensive due to numerous fittings. FRP is the standard for large-diameter underground mains as it is corrosion-proof.

Flexible Piping (PE/Nylon)

Modern standard for underground runs. Installed inside a larger "chase" pipe, allowing for replacement without digging. Fewer joints = fewer leak points.

Delivery Method: Suction vs. Pressure

Suction: Pump is inside the dispenser. Limited distance (fuel is pulled). Good for small sites.
Pressurized: Submersible Turbine Pump (STP) inside the tank pushes fuel. Standard for high-volume stations.

3.2Drainage & Environmental Protection

  • 1
    Slope ManagementConcrete pads must slope 1-2% away from dispensers toward trench drains to prevent pooling.
  • 2
    Oil/Water Separators (OWS)Stormwater from fueling areas must pass through an OWS to trap hydrocarbons before entering the municipal sewer.

3.3Alternative Fuels

E85

Ethanol

Hydroscopic (absorbs water). Requires nickel-plated fittings and alcohol-compatible tank linings to prevent corrosion and phase separation.

B20

Biodiesel

Acts as a solvent, cleaning sludge from old tanks which can clog filters. More susceptible to microbial growth ("bugs").

R99

Renewable Diesel

Chemically identical to petro-diesel but made from renewables. Fully compatible with existing infrastructure (drop-in replacement).

Interactive Exercise

Categorize the piping materials.

Rigid vs. Flexible Piping

Drag items from the pool into the correct category bucket.

Unsorted Items

Galvanized Steel Schedule 40
Fiberglass Reinforced Plastic (FRP)
HDPE Co-axial (Double Wall)
Threaded Black Iron
Corrugated Stainless Steel
Nylon Barrier Layer Pipe

Rigid Piping

Flexible Piping