NREL Releases Report Addressing E15 Compatibility with Station Equipment
June 30th, 2015 by Fiedler Group
The National Renewable energy Laboratory (NREL) released the “E15 and Infrastructure” report, addressing the compatibility of E15 with equipment at refueling stations.
The 44-page report was produced under the guidance of the Renewable Fuels Association (RFA) and funded by the Blend Your Own Ethanol campaign.
Conducted via a literature review, a summary of codes and standards, a comprehensive review of equipment manufacturer products, and manufacturer’s verification regarding which ethanol blends work with their products, the report considers future opportunities, improved sealing materials, improved consumer safety, and reduced risks to the environment.
As noted in the Petroleum Equipment Institute’s (PEI) official newsletter, Tulsa Letter, the report contained several findings of interest to the equipment industry, including:
- The typical station has approximately 60 pieces of equipment designed to handle fuel and vapor
- A majority of installed tanks are already compatible with E15
- Refueling equipment manufacturers offer improved sealing materials which provide compatibility with a wide range of fuels
- Looking back 15 years, the study authors were unable to identify any negative impacts or leaks from UST systems during the nationwide deployment of E10
- Credit card companies are now requiring retailers, including fueling stations, to update dispensers to accept new chip credit cards, which would reduce fraud liability. This October 2017 deadline provides an opportunity to upgrade dispensing equipment to E25 compatibility through a retrofit kit at a significant cost savings.
For more details, read the full NREL report.
And to learn more about E10 and E85 and Fiedler Group’s expertise in alternative fuels, please contact us today.
