The Need for 10 1/4 Diesel Dispenser Filters * “The Good Housekeeping Seal of Approval”

Review of Dispenser Filter Item 237-3 (July 2015) requiring engine fuel dispensers to have a 10 micron or smaller nominal pore-size filter, and proposed 2016 amendment carving out exceptions for dispensers with flow rate ≥ 15 gallons per minute and dispensers with flow rate of ≤ 15 gpm in certain cold weather states during winter months to have a 30-micron or smaller nominal pore size filter.

• Review of findings of corrosion
  • Battelle ULSD Corrosion Study
    • Clean Diesel Alliance Project Conclusions (2012): Acetic acid is suspected cause of corrosion (acetobacteraceae); Ethanol and acetic acid observed in diesel tanks; Additives not involved in corrosion
  • USEPA Study
    • MIC suspected cause of corrosion; Ethanol/glycerol suspected food sources; Acid production from breakdown of alcohols; Water elimination key to controlling
  • CRC Report No. 667
    • Recommendations for maintaining clean distribution system and filters; Accumulated water and sludge promote corrosion of bottom of fuel tanks; Water most common contaminant; Water more soluble in biodiesel/blends
  • Anecdotal Evidence of Success “Good Housekeeping”
    • Speedway (2,750 retail locations) – no acute corrosion issues for a decade; extensive/aggressive housekeeping programs
• Review of Fuel Quality
  • ASTM Specifications D975: X8.4 Water and Sediment Controls
  • Review of concern that can’t use 10-micron filters in cold weather or with biodiesel
  • 10-micron dispenser filters lessen particle loading on filters, extending filter life
  • How tank management can impact filter life
• Conclusion
  • Water and microbial activity responsible for corrosion and particulate in USTs
  • Good housekeeping greatly reduces these concerns
  • 10-micron dispenser filter provides last defense before vehicle

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