Fuel Dispensing Equipment

Fuel dispensing equipment dispenses and monitors all types of liquid and gaseous fuel. There are many different types of products. Examples include fuel dispensers for alcohol, aviation fuel or aviation gas (avgas), diesel, gasoline, hydrogen, kerosene, oil, liquid petroleum, liquefied natural gas (LNG), natural gas, and nitroglycerin. In North America, fuel delivery systems must comply with federal, state, provincial, and/or local standards for fueling safety and efficiency. Products may also bear marks from organizations such as Underwriters Laboratories (UL). Fuel dispensing equipment destined for sale in Europe, Asia, South America, and Australia should also meet relevant regulatory requirements and quality standards.

Fuel dispensing equipment is specified by fuel type. Typically, fuel dispensers such as liquid fueling nozzles and receptacles are used with fossil fuels such as leaded and unleaded gasoline, diesel, and kerosene; biodiesel fuels made from plant matter; alcohol fuels such as methanol, ethanol, and butanol; and liquid hydrogen. Fuel dispensing systems for gaseous fuels (fuel gas) is designed for use with coal gas, a flammable fuel that is also known as town gas, manufactured gas, syngas, and producer gas. Other fuel dispensing equipment is used with gaseous fuels such as propane, butane, wood gas, water gas, water-coal gas, and compressed or uncompressed hydrogen.

Fuel delivery systems consist of control panels, dispensers and dispensing units, fuel switches, nozzles, pumps, valves, and pump motors. Within each category, there are many types of fuel dispensing equipment. For example, there are many types of fueling nozzles and receptacles. Quick-release connectors have single, coaxial coupling that eliminates the need for separate filling and venting points. Security pins and polyurethane sleeves are important safety features. Pressure-sensitive fueling nozzles cannot be opened until the pumping system (such as at a truck stop or service station) is pressurized. These fuel nozzles close automatically when pressure is removed. Dual-plane fueling nozzles are also available.

Specifications for fuel dispensing equipment include flow rate, maximum working pressure, inlet size, temperature range, weight, and materials of construction. Body materials include metals such as aluminum and stainless steel, as well as plastic hosing and tubing. Often, the internal parts for fuel dispensing equipment are made of stainless steel or brass. Plastic splash shields may be used with fueling nozzles while rubber dust caps are sometimes used with fueling receptacles.

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