The Brazilian National Agency for Petroleum, Natural Gas and Biofuels (ANP) has issued new guidelines for the draining of Diesel B tanks at retail stations, a move aimed at enhancing the quality of diesel available to consumers across Brazil. The implementation of the ANP Resolution No. 968/24, effective from July 31, 2024, mandates regular monitoring and drainage practices to prevent contamination and ensure the diesel’s integrity.
Key Provisions of the ANP Resolution No. 968/24
The resolution outlines stringent requirements for the periodic drainage of tank bottoms, an essential practice within the broader framework of best storage and handling practices for Diesel B—a blend of diesel and biodiesel. Biodiesel’s hygroscopic nature means it tends to absorb water, which can settle at the tank bottom, creating conditions favorable for microbial growth, acidity increase, and deposit formation. These contaminants can lead to clogged filters, injector blockages, and tank corrosion.
Mandatory Weekly Drainage: The resolution stipulates that all retail stations must conduct weekly bottom tank drainage and maintain detailed records of these activities. These records are crucial for ANP inspections and must be preserved for at least one year.
Alternative Bi-weekly Drainage Option: Retailers can opt for bi-weekly drainage, provided they perform daily water level checks in the tanks. This option requires maintaining two sets of records: one for daily water monitoring and another for the bi-weekly drainage.
Record-Keeping Requirements: The records must clearly identify the station (including corporate name and CNPJ), the specific tank drained or monitored, dates of procedures, evaluations of the product (water or impurity content), quantities drained, and any additional measures taken such as tank cleaning. The responsible employee must sign these records, which should be readily available for ANP review.
Practical Benefits of Regular Tank Drainage
Adopting these drainage practices offers multiple benefits beyond compliance. Regular tank maintenance helps retailers avoid consumer complaints and penalties for non-conforming fuel. Additionally, it can lead to cost savings on filter replacements and maintenance of pipelines and pumps, as well as reduce the risk of tank leaks. The presence of water and impurities accelerates tank corrosion, potentially causing environmental damage and further financial liabilities.
Procedures for Effective Tank Drainage
The ANP provides detailed steps for safe and effective tank drainage:
- Timing and Safety Precautions: Perform the drainage preferably before opening hours or during low-traffic periods. Isolate and signal the area, and ensure all nearby electrical equipment is turned off to prevent sparks.
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): The personnel involved must wear appropriate PPE, including goggles, boots, masks, and gloves.
- Manual Pump Use: Insert the manual pump through the measurement opening to reach the tank bottom and begin draining into a clean, known-capacity container, such as a bucket.
- Product Evaluation: Pour a portion of the drained product into a 1-liter graduated cylinder and inspect it in a well-lit area. Draining of diesel tanks should continue until the product is homogeneous, clear, and free of particulates, matching the quality expected at the dispensing nozzle.
- Immediate Action on Water Detection: If water, solid particles, or impurities persist despite drainage, the tank must be cleaned.
- Proper Disposal: Dispose of the drained product through the Oily Drainage System (SDO) near the water-oil separator box (SAO), or store it in containers designated for hazardous waste and hire a disposal service.
Compliance and Safety
The outlined procedures align with standards specified in ABNT NBR 15594-1:2023 and ABNT NBR 13787:2013, ensuring that the new guidelines do not contradict existing safety and quality standards.
By following the ANP’s guidelines, retail stations not only comply with legal requirements but also play a vital role in delivering high-quality diesel to consumers, safeguarding their operations, and protecting the environment.