A Quick Comparison between Aluminium and Steel Diesel Fuel Tanks
10 May 2022Automotive and marine industries maximise a wide array of similar components to ensure that vehicles and marine vessels can operate for a long time. One component that they normally share is fuel tanks.
Fuel tanks are components that can store a specific volume of fuel. Since fuel can be delicate, fuel tanks should be able to prevent the infiltration of foreign objects. Fuel tanks must also be vented, allowing adequate air to enter. These components often maximise numerous openings, allowing users to fill, discharge, and drain their content.
One aspect of fuel tanks that should be accounted for during their design and construction is the material. Diesel fuel tanks, in particular, can be made from aluminium and steel. To know the better option for you, here is a quick comparison between aluminium and steel diesel fuel tanks.
Aluminium Diesel Fuel Tanks
Aluminium in general is comprised of various alloying elements such as copper, magnesium, manganese, silicon, tin, and zinc. The combination of these elements helps aluminium attain its excellent properties such as resistance to damaging elements and remarkable weight.
Diesel fuel tanks out of aluminium are known to be lightweight. And since the energy consumption of vehicles and marine vessels can be significantly affected by their overall weight, utilising aluminium diesel fuel tanks can ensure users lower energy usage and expenses. Aside from their lightweight quality, aluminium diesel fuel tanks can be advantageous for users as they can withstand rust, oxidation, liquids, and other particles that can damage their base materials and the contained fuel. Despite utilising them repeatedly for a long time, aluminium diesel fuel tanks are expected to function and last for a long time.
Steel Diesel Fuel Tanks
Steel, on the other hand, is normally composed of iron and carbon. It can also boast a small percentage of silicon, phosphorus, sulphur, and oxygen. What is great about the mixture of these elements is they can make a material resistant to fracture and strong.
Given the general properties of steel, diesel tanks out of this material can surely possess qualities that make them strong against fracture and other similar types of damage. They can even possess a rugged exterior, making them useful for applications that might damage other materials in just a short time. Take note, however, that steel can be weak against rust and corrosion. So, once the added coating layers have been diminished, users should decide whether to have them repaired or buy another one. Fortunately, steel diesel fuel tanks have a cheaper price tag compared to their aluminium counterparts.
Fuel Tanks at Canfred Engineering
Tons of elements must be considered when choosing a diesel fuel tank. These elements include the budget, surrounding conditions, and usage. If you need help in choosing the best diesel fuel tank for your truck or marine vessel, you can contact us at Canfred Engineering. We primarily focus on fabricating aluminium and stainless steel tanks for trucks, boats, buses, caravans, and campers.
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