The best way to protect your facility from monsoon storm damage is to be proactive about inspections and maintenance. Doing so can help you identify risks and prevent failures before storms or extreme temperature fluctuations. Read on for Grohall’s checklist for fuel equipment water intrusion prevention and fuel transfer pump maintenance for summer storms and monsoons.
Understanding How Monsoon Season Affects Fuel Dispensing and Transfer Equipment
Arizona’s harsh weather during the monsoon season can have a severe negative impact on fuel dispensing and transfer equipment. The biggest risks are:
- Dust – Fine dust intrusion from heavy dust storms and high winds can clog filters. Micro-particulates can infiltrate the vents of storage tanks and dispenser housings, leading to fuel filter clogs and diminished performance. Dust and debris can also damage moving parts and cause increased wear and tear, causing hoses, nozzles, pumps, and valves to fail prematurely.
- Water – Heavy rains can overwhelm site drainage systems and increase the risk of flash floods. Floods can contaminate sump pumps and subterranean storage tanks and equipment. Water intrusion can compromise fuel quality and cause a buildup of hydrostatic pressure, resulting in a shutdown of pumps and fueling operations.
- Heat – Extreme temperature changes can cause rapid thermal expansion and contraction, increasing the risk of joint and seal leaks, vapor lock, and pressure strikes.
- Electrical Surges – Lightning can cause electrical surges that damage electronic components and cause power fluctuations that threaten equipment safety and performance.
The Importance of Structured, Pre-Monsoon Equipment Maintenance
Pre-monsoon and pre-flood inspections are a crucial element of proactive, preventive equipment maintenance. Proper maintenance and inspection prior to monsoon storms can:
- Reduce the risk of severe water contamination and keep equipment dry
- Safeguard against spills, leaks, and environmental contamination
- Properly prepare containment measures and emergency shutoff protocols
- Protect sensitive and costly infrastructure from damage
- Maintain pre- and post-storm operations and reduce the risk of failure and downtime
- Ensure proper filtration and proper monitoring throughout the storm
- Make restoration faster and less expensive, and support the return to normal operations
Your Checklist for Pre-Storm Fuel Dispensing and Transfer Equipment Readiness
At least 24-48 hours before a monsoon storm hits, you should begin preparing by following this checklist:
- Test all emergency power shutoffs by manually tripping the switches to make sure they function properly
- Test standby generators
- Check surge suppressors or surge protectors
- Verify proper grounding
- Check tank water levels
- Inspect spill response kits
- Apply corrosion inhibitors and seal conduit runs and shear valves
12 hours before a storm, you should:
- Clean the sump perimeter and inspect sump gaskets
- Test spill buckets
- Secure all tank fill caps and tighten any piping connections
- Verify that all storage tank vent pipes are properly equipped with rain caps and are free of debris
- Replace fuel filters
- Lubricate moving parts to protect from dust and water
Grohall offers expert, tailored support, technical guidance, and localized equipment service and maintenance for lubrication and petroleum equipment. For assistance in troubleshooting, onsite testing, preventive maintenance planning, or pre-monsoon fuel system readiness in Arizona, call us now at (520) 622-4263 or 1-800-624-0003 or email us at sales@grohall.com.