Standby Generator Fuel Tankage
Standby Generator Fuel Tankage
(OP)
I am installing a standby generator for a local business and the local governing body is requiring compliance with NFPA 37 "Standard for the Installation and Use of Stationary Combustion Engines and Gas Turbines". Unfortunately, I am not familiar with the standard. The generator is 40kW, 208V 3ph and has an integral fuel tank (80 gal) that is built into the bottom of the skid. The tank is currently single-walled. My question is, do I need a double-wall tank, or need containment basin to meet the standard? The installation is outside, and the generator will sit on a concrete foundation. Fuel is diesel.






RE: Standby Generator Fuel Tankage
If you are replacing an existing tank, I'd imagine it would have to be double wall or something equivalent.
RE: Standby Generator Fuel Tankage
Keith Cress
Flamin Systems, Inc.- http://www.flaminsystems.com
RE: Standby Generator Fuel Tankage
As for a leakless raised curb, this is another option, but not optimal, as standing rainwater becomes a real issue. Location is FL and this containment would constantly be full of water.
Thanks for your suggestions.
RE: Standby Generator Fuel Tankage
Keith Cress
Flamin Systems, Inc.- http://www.flaminsystems.com
RE: Standby Generator Fuel Tankage
RE: Standby Generator Fuel Tankage
We used to run into this quite a bit, depending on how the local authority interpets the regs, and applies their own regulations, you can find that unless the tank is UL approved and originally a double wall listed containment system, you may not fly. I have found it's easier these days to go ask the Fire Marshall before sticking mt feet in our collective mouths.
Florida Department of Environmental Protection Approval is required for tanks over a certain size, but not certain anymore what that size is, so you may need to check with them as well.
Hope that helps.
RE: Standby Generator Fuel Tankage
You will need to consult the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (Chapter 62), the state fire marshal, the county and the city. Most of the codes are available on-line if you look hard enough. It is important to find them all to avoid surprises later.
If your facility isn't required to have an SPCC plan, you may not have to use double-wall for a small tank. To be safe and simplify your life, use a double-wall UL 142 listed tank although it may not be strictly required. They are fairly standard equipment.
RE: Standby Generator Fuel Tankage
What we have done on exterior installations is to install the secondary containment curb, but slope the surfact to drain through a 2" round opening in the curb fitted with a manual drain valve. That way rainwater can be drained so as to not have a mosquito breeding pond.
RE: Standby Generator Fuel Tankage