What Is a Fuel Bowser?
A fuel bowser—also known as a fuel dispenser or fuel pump—is a device used to store and dispense fuel safely, including diesel, petrol, or aviation fuel. These units are commonly found at:
- Service stations
- Construction and mining sites
- Agricultural farms
- Industrial or remote facilities
- Fuel bowsers can be:
- Portable units
- Trailer-mounted tanks
- Stationary systems with integrated pumps, hoses, and meters
They are essential for refuelling vehicles, machinery, and equipment efficiently. Many fuel bowsers feature:
- Flow meters
- Dispensing nozzles
- Fuel-grade hoses
- Filtration systems
- Bunded (double-walled) tanks for spill protection and environmental compliance
How to Operate a Fuel Bowser Safely
Operating a fuel bowser requires strict safety procedures to avoid hazards like fuel spills, fire risks, and environmental damage. Always follow these best practices:
- Read Manufacturer Instructions
Follow all operational and safety guidelines provided by the bowser manufacturer.
- Wear PPE (Personal Protective Equipment)
Use gloves, eye protection, and flame-resistant clothing when handling fuel.
- Ensure Proper Grounding
Ground the bowser to prevent static discharge during bulk fuel transfers.
- Turn Off Engines
Make sure all vehicles or machinery being refuelled are switched off.
- Use Certified Components
Only use nozzles and hoses rated for fuel use; check them for cracks or wear.
- Avoid Overfilling
Monitor sight gauges and flow meters to prevent fuel overflow or spillage.
- Keep Fire Extinguishers Nearby
A Class B-rated fire extinguisher should be easily accessible at all times.
- No Ignition Sources
Enforce a strict no-smoking/no-flame zone around the fuel bowser.
Following these safety steps protects personnel and ensures regulatory compliance.
Fuel Bowser Maintenance Requirements
Routine maintenance extends the life of your fuel bowser and helps prevent operational issues. Include these key tasks in your maintenance schedule:
- Regular Inspections
- Check hoses, nozzles, meters, and seals for damage, wear, or leaks.
- Filter Replacements
- Change fuel filters regularly to ensure clean fuel delivery.
- Pump Servicing
- Test the pump motor, seals, and electrical connections for proper function.
- Tank Cleaning
- Clean the fuel tank periodically to remove sludge, water, or algae buildup.
- Flow Meter Calibration
- Recalibrate flow meters as needed to ensure accurate fuel measurement.
- Bunding Inspection (if applicable)
- Inspect bunded areas for cracks, leaks, and sufficient containment capacity.
A well-maintained fuel bowser operates more efficiently, reduces downtime, and ensures workplace safety.
Above Ground Diesel Tanks – Self-Bunded Solutions by Aflo Equipment
When it comes to bulk fuel storage, above ground diesel tanks offer the safest, most practical solution for industries like agriculture, construction, mining, and transport. At Aflo Equipment, we specialise in supplying Fueltainer self-bunded diesel tanks designed to meet Australian standards for fuel storage and handling. With built-in double walls, transportability, and multiple capacity options, they provide a reliable choice for businesses that need secure on-site fuel supply.
What Are the Different Types of Diesel Tanks?
There are several types of diesel tanks available, each suited to specific applications and regulatory requirements:
Self-Bunded Tanks: Double-walled construction with integrated secondary containment. Ideal for above-ground use and fully compliant with AS 1940. Aflo’s Fueltainer range falls into this category.
- Single-Skinned Tanks: Require external bunding or containment, less common due to stricter regulations.
- Portable Diesel Tanks: Smaller tanks for utes, trailers, or mobile refuelling.
- Underground Diesel Tanks: Used for service stations or large-scale operations where space is limited.
- Poly Diesel Tanks: Lightweight, corrosion-resistant polyethylene tanks, ideal for portability.
- IBC Diesel Tanks (Transport-Approved): Certified Intermediate Bulk Containers for safe diesel transport under the ADG Code.
Aflo Fueltainer Self-Bunded Diesel Tanks
Aflo Equipment stocks Fueltainer self-bunded diesel tanks ranging from 30,000L up to 110,000L, providing large-scale fuel storage solutions for businesses that need reliable, above-ground supply.
These high-capacity tanks are designed to support:
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- Transport and Logistics Fleets – ideal for depots managing trucks, buses, and heavy vehicles.
- Construction and Mining Operations – ensuring continuous on-site refuelling for machinery and equipment.
- Agriculture and Farming – supporting seasonal demand and large machinery fleets across broadacre farms.
- Industrial and Commercial Facilities – providing centralised bulk fuel storage for manufacturing or energy-intensive sites.
- Remote and Regional Sites – offering dependable fuel supply where access to commercial service stations is limited.
Built with double-wall steel bunding, lockable pump bays, and engineered lifting points, Fueltainer tanks simplify compliance while delivering safe, efficient, and cost-effective diesel storage at scale.
Maintaining an Above Ground Diesel Tank
Proper tank maintenance protects your fuel quality and ensures compliance:
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- Routine Inspections: Check walls, bunds, fittings, and seals for leaks or corrosion.
- Water & Sediment Removal: Drain condensation and diesel bug build-up regularly.
- Filter Replacement: Service fuel filters in pumps and dispensers to prevent contamination.
- Bund Integrity: Ensure the outer wall is intact and capable of containing spills.
- Record Keeping: Maintain logs of inspections, maintenance, and repairs for audit purposes.
Compliance & Safety Regulations
In Australia, above-ground diesel tanks must comply with:
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- AS 1940 – Storage and Handling of Flammable and Combustible Liquids
- Bund Requirements: Tanks must provide secondary containment of 110% capacity
- Workplace Health & Safety (WHS): Training, spill kits, and emergency signage required
- EPA & Local Council Regulations: Environmental safeguards for spill control and drainage protection
- ADG Code (for transportable tanks): Ensures compliance for mobile or relocatable units
- Aflo Equipment supplies tanks that meet all relevant regulations, giving you peace of mind that your installation is both safe and compliant.
Why Choose Aflo Equipment for Diesel Tanks?
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- Wide range of Fueltainer self-bunded diesel tanks from 1,000L up to 65,000L
- Fully compliant with Australian standards (AS 1940 & EPA requirements)
- Designed for easy relocation with forklift pockets and lifting lugs
- Durable double-wall steel construction for maximum safety
- Expert advice, installation guidance, and Australia-wide delivery
Whether you’re a farmer needing a fuel tank for machinery, a transport operator or a mining contractor relying on fuel storage, Aflo Equipment has the right above ground diesel tank solution. With the Fueltainer range, you’ll benefit from durable design, safety compliance, and reliable on-site fuel access.
Can self-bunded diesel tanks be relocated?
Yes, self-bunded diesel tanks are designed for relocation, making them an efficient and cost-effective choice for dynamic job sites. Their integrated double-wall design removes the need for external bunding, simplifying transport and setup.
Key considerations when relocating a tank:
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- Drain fuel if required: Some sites or transport companies may require partial or full emptying for safe transport.
- Use designated lifting points: Most tanks feature engineered lifting lugs or forklift pockets to ensure safe handling.
- Conduct reinspections post-move: After relocation, inspect for transport-related damage and verify the condition of pumps, fittings, and the bund.
- Update site compliance: Ensure the new location meets all local environmental and safety requirements.
Self-bunded tanks are ideal for industries like construction, agriculture, and mining—where on-site fuel flexibility is crucial without compromising safety or compliance.