Using an Automatic Tank Gauge has replaced manual dip-stick measuring as the preferred inventory control solution for retail fuel sites with underground fuel storage tanks. A single Automatic Tank Gauge panel/console can be connected to probes and electric line leak detectors across multiple tanks to manage an entire fuel site’s inventory. The tank probes accurately measure the amount and temperature of any fuel or water in a tank and report it back to the Automatic Tank Gauge .
There are four primary functions of an Automatic Tank Gauge:
- Inventory control and measurement (Up to Custody Transfer levels)
- Leak detection
- Compliance tracking
- Flow rate monitoring
Fuel site owners using an Automatic Tank Gauge are able to accurately assess the amount of fuel currently available for dispensing in each tank. By checking the inventory daily, an owner is able to understand their sites’ business cycles, how much inventory they need on hand, and when they need to schedule deliveries. Tight inventory control can help identify variances in fuel amounts that might be caused by inaccurate deliveries, malfunctioning equipment, or theft.
An Automatic Tank Gauge can perform the leak detection test by taking product level and temperature readings nearly continuously for a set period of time to determine if a changing product level may be due to a leak. Some Automatic Tank Gauges perform both Statistical and Continuous Statistical Leak Detection by taking inventory readings over the course of a set period whenever there is no pumping action. The system statistically analyses the data to determine if the tank is tight or leaking.
Compliance is an important aspect of running a gas station as a failed inspection may result in downtime or fines. An Automatic Tank Gauge system can help an owner detect leaks, test pump flow rates, and record inventory reconciliation. Installing an Automatic Tank Gauge system not only helps a station owner perform compliance tests, but it can also help maintain the documentation necessary to supply inspectors. Many tank gauges include a printer for creating physical documentation at set times.
This article comes from smartflowtech edit released