Marine Jetty Refuelling System Installation and Fuel Contamination Testing
Ensuring Safe and Compliant Fuel Delivery for a Coastal Marine Operation
Coastal Western Australia
Marine environments place unique demands on fuel infrastructure. Exposure to salt air, moisture, and the movement of vessels means that fuel systems installed at jetties and marina facilities need to be robust, well-maintained, and regularly tested. Handy Fuel WA was engaged by a coastal marine operation to assess and upgrade their jetty refuelling system, and to carry out fuel testing following concerns about possible contamination in their diesel storage.
We had no idea the fuel had deteriorated to that extent. Handy Fuel WA found the problem, fixed it, and gave us a plan to keep on top of it going forward. The jetty refuelling system is now running properly for the first time in years.
Marine fuel systems require specialist knowledge and regular attention to stay safe and compliant. Handy Fuel WA provides jetty refuelling system installation, maintenance, and fuel quality testing for marine operations across Western Australia. From diesel bug treatment to full system recommissioning, our team has the experience to keep your marine fuel infrastructure in reliable working order. Contact us to arrange an assessment.
Marine Fuel Systems
The client operated a working jetty that required diesel to be available for vessels at the point of mooring. The existing refuelling infrastructure had aged considerably, with components showing corrosion and wear consistent with long-term salt air exposure. There were also concerns about the quality of diesel in the storage tank, as some vessels had reported performance issues that could indicate fuel degradation or contamination.
Handy Fuel WA's team attended site to carry out a full condition assessment of the jetty refuelling system. This included inspecting the dispenser, hose runs, nozzle, and all fittings for signs of corrosion, leaks, or wear. Several components were identified as requiring immediate replacement, including the fuel hose, nozzle, and a corroded fitting at the pump outlet.
Fuel samples were drawn from the storage tank and sent to a registered laboratory for full analysis. Results confirmed the presence of water ingress and early-stage microbial growth (diesel bug), both of which are common in marine storage environments where condensation and temperature variation are ongoing factors.
Handy Fuel WA carried out a fuel polishing and treatment process to remediate the contamination, removing water and treating the fuel to address the microbial activity. The storage tank was also inspected internally. Following remediation, the refuelling system components were replaced and the full setup was recommissioned and tested.
The client received a written condition report and a recommended maintenance schedule to help prevent recurrence, including guidance on fuel additives and testing intervals appropriate for their environment.