Generator Feed Tanks

Imperium® Generator Feed Tanks are designed for generator fuel supply applications, not just general fuel storage.

They provide a robust mid-capacity solution for sites where fuel needs to be stored safely, positioned close to the generator, and managed as part of a reliable standby or prime power system.

Key benefits include:

• Steel bunded construction for strong secondary containment.
• Interchangeable Imperium® fittings plate to allow change of tank use and so future-proofing your storage asset
• Mid-capacity storage range from 1050 litres to 2550 litres – to be expanded).
• Suitable for generator feed applications where controlled fuel supply is important.
• Useful alternative to oversized bulk storage where site space, access or fuel demand does not justify a larger tank.
• Supports diesel, gas oil and HVO, subject to full system compatibility.
• Part of the wider Atlantis Tanks generator fuel storage range, including Generator Day Service Tanks and Generator Bulk Tanks.

For contractors, facilities teams and power generation specialists, the key advantage is simple: the feed tank helps create a more controlled fuel storage arrangement between delivery, storage and generator operation.

Generator feed tanks are used where a generator needs a dependable local fuel supply without the fuller transfer and control arrangement of a day service tank system.

In many installations, the generator’s own fuel pump can draw fuel directly from a nearby tank through feed and return pipework. The feed tank therefore acts as a close-coupled fuel reservoir, positioned near enough to the generator to avoid excessive pipe runs, friction losses or unnecessary strain on the generator set fuel pump.

This makes an Imperium® Generator Feed Tank a practical choice where the required fuel volume can be stored close to the generator, fuel is expected to be turned over within a reasonable period, and a simple, robust, bunded direct-feed arrangement is preferred.

A generator feed tank should not be confused with a day service tank. Day service tanks are usually part of a more controlled fuel system, often fed from a larger bulk tank and supported by transfer pumps, level controls, alarms or fuel management equipment.

A generator feed tank is often the right choice where the generator can be supplied directly from a nearby tank, without needing a larger bulk storage and day service tank arrangement.

This is common where:

• the required fuel volume can be stored close to the generator;
• space is limited but a safe bunded tank can still be positioned nearby;
• fuel deliveries are manageable in smaller volumes;
• the generator does not require a large long-term reserve;
• the generator’s own fuel pump can reliably draw from the tank;
• a simple feed and return pipework arrangement is preferred;
• fuel is expected to be used within a reasonable period after filling.

In these installations, the feed tank acts as the local fuel source for the generator. Its role is to provide practical, bunded fuel storage close to the set, while avoiding unnecessary pipe runs, excessive suction lift or friction losses that could place strain on the generator’s fuel pump.

Where a site requires longer runtime, remote fuel storage, automated transfer, fuel polishing or more detailed level control, a generator day service tank and larger bulk storage arrangement may be more appropriate.

For many smaller or mid-sized installations, however, an Imperium® Generator Feed Tank provides the simpler answer: robust local storage, straightforward connection and dependable fuel availability close to the generator.

Generator feed tanks are often specified where a generator needs a dependable local fuel source and the installation can be kept relatively simple.

They are particularly useful where the tank can be positioned close enough to the generator for reliable direct draw through feed and return pipework. This makes them a practical option for standby and occasional-use applications where a larger remote bulk tank, transfer pumps and day service tank controls would be unnecessary.

Typical applications include:

• commercial standby generator installations;
• agricultural and rural power resilience systems;
• industrial backup power sites;
• generator compounds;
• remote buildings or outbuildings;
• sites where local bunded fuel storage is preferred;
• installations where diesel, gas oil or HVO flexibility may be required.

Because a generator feed tank is usually a simpler local storage solution, it is best suited to applications where fuel is expected to be turned over within a reasonable period after filling. Where fuel may be stored for long periods, or where fuel quality management is a critical operational requirement, the wider fuel system design should be reviewed carefully.

A generator feed tank and a generator day service tank are not the same thing.

A generator feed tank is usually the simpler option. It is a bunded tank positioned close enough to the generator for the generator’s own fuel pump to draw fuel directly through feed and return pipework. Its role is to provide local fuel storage close to the set, without the fuller transfer, control and fuel management arrangement normally associated with a day service tank system.

A generator day service tank is a more controlled local supply tank. It is also normally positioned close to the generator, but it is typically used where the main fuel reserve is stored elsewhere. Fuel is transferred from a larger bulk tank to the day service tank using pumps, level controls and associated control systems. The day service tank then provides the generator with a managed local fuel supply.

The difference is therefore not simply about location. Both tanks may be close to the generator. The real difference is the system role:

• A generator feed tank is normally used for direct draw from a nearby bunded tank.
• A generator day service tank is normally used as the controlled local supply tank in a larger fuel system.
• A generator bulk tank is normally used where a larger remote reserve is required.

Atlantis Generator Day Service Tanks are available from 800 litres to 3100 litres for controlled local supply duties. Imperium® Generator Feed Tanks cover the 1050 litre to 2550 litre mid-capacity range for installations where a simpler, close-coupled direct-feed arrangement is preferred. For larger reserve requirements, Generator Bulk Tanks remain available.

Diesel remains the most widely used generator fuel because it is readily available, familiar and supported by long-established supply chains.

Most existing generator fuel systems have been designed around diesel’s storage and operating characteristics, including tank materials, seals, pipework, filtration and generator compatibility.

Gas oil is also used in many commercial, industrial and agricultural fuel storage applications, subject to the correct specification and site requirements.

HVO is becoming increasingly important as organisations look for ways to reduce carbon impact without replacing existing generator assets. In many cases, HVO can be used as a drop-in alternative to diesel, but the full fuel system should still be considered before switching.

Important questions include:

• Are the tank seals and gaskets compatible?
• Are internal coatings and materials suitable?
• Has the existing system previously stored diesel for long periods?
• Could old diesel deposits be loosened during conversion?
• Is additional filtration needed during or after changeover?
• Has the generator manufacturer confirmed fuel compatibility?

This is where tank specification matters. Choosing a generator feed tank that can support diesel, gas oil and future HVO strategies gives operators more flexibility over the life of the installation.

Generator fuel systems are long-term assets, even when the fuel stored in the tank is turned over regularly. Fuel strategy may change during the life of the installation.

A site may start with diesel, move towards HVO later, or need the option to use different fuels depending on client requirements, environmental targets or supply conditions.

For this reason, future-proofing should be considered early.

Key design considerations include:

• fuel compatibility;
• bunded containment;
• tank location and access;
• feed and return pipework;
• pipe run length and suction lift;
• venting and fill point specification;
• inspection and maintenance access;
• refuelling access and delivery planning;
• generator runtime requirements;
• generator manufacturer requirements.

Addressing these points at the design stage can reduce the risk of expensive changes later.

Imperium® Generator Feed Tanks are designed for applications where dependable local fuel storage, bunded containment and practical generator connection are the main priorities. They can also be specified with future diesel, gas oil or HVO requirements in mind.

Imperium® Generator Feed Tanks are one part of the wider Atlantis Tanks generator fuel storage range.

Depending on the application, you may also need:

• Generator Day Service Tanks — for controlled local supply where fuel is transferred from a larger reserve tank.
• Generator Bulk Tanks — for larger remote reserve storage requirements.
• Diesel Storage Tanks — for general diesel and gas oil storage applications.
• HVO-compatible fuel storage options — where future fuel transition is being considered.

If you are planning a generator installation or upgrade, choosing the right fuel storage arrangement early can help avoid costly changes later.