From Wiki Answers
WHAT IS FUEL POLISHING?
Fuel polishing
is the process whereby diesel fuel is moved through filter media using a
pump which operates independently of any other pumps on board a vessel.
Fuel polishing is most commonly found in the marine industry, in
particular yachting where vessels remain idle for extended periods of
time.
The typical fuel polishing system consists of a pump/motor which
is electrically powered, 12VDC, 24VDC, 110VAC or 240VAC. Again, these
are the most typical. Also, the fuel polishing system consists of a fuel
filter/water separator. One essential of a fuel polishing system is a
vacuum gauge which will indicate the cleanliness status of the filter
element found in the filter housing.
Fuel polishing systems must be
capable of removing water, very fine particles (1-5 microns in size) and
most importantly, moisture. There are numerous fuel filters which do an
adequate job of removing water and particulates, however, unless they
remove moisture, the microbes will continue to grow in the fuel tanks.
To be effective, fuel must be polished regularly. The entire volume of
the fuel tanks must be circulated through the described filters four or
five times a
month. (MORE IS BETTER) Polishing fuel can be
likened to polishing silverware, it takes many "passes" and it takes
"frequent" passes in order to maintain the fuel (silverware) in tip top
condition.
Once a year polishing is a thing of the past. With the newer
diesel engines, there is a cleanliness standard which is far more
stringent than that of days gone by. If you, the typical yachter,
pleasure boater have experienced clogged filters, you know how
aggravating that can be not to mention the danger of engines shut down
in rough seas or critical situations.
Other fuel polishing
scenarios include stationary generators, remotely located seasonally
operated equipment such as agricultural pumps, oil field pumps etc.
There are no doubt numerous applications, all of which share the same
common denominator, idle fuel.
Google fuel polishing and you
are sure to find several companies competing for their share of the
market. A word of caution, be sure to address the MOISTURE question with
whomever you contact. Also compare water removal capacities and size of
particles removed. DON'T buy the cheapest, BUY THE BEST.
Typically
smaller systems are cheaper and inadequate. Many systems offer the same
inadequate filters that you may already have. More of the same is not
the answer. Look at the customers' comments if they are available. Your
peers are a good reference. Look at the company you are considering
dealing with. Who are they doing business with.
Finally, fuel
polishing is a long term investment. If you are a "long term" owner,
then fuel polishing is for you. Simply stated, if you want your
equipment to operate effectively for the long haul, invest in the
"stuff" that will keep it in operating condition continuously.