14th August 2025
Airports rely on complex systems — from runway lighting and air traffic control to passenger processing and emergency services. These depend on backup power that must start instantly during outages, and that reliability often hinges on one factor: the quality of stored diesel fuel.
As critical infrastructure, airports must maintain operations for public safety and economic stability. Regular fuel polishing is a key resilience measure, ensuring dependable standby fuel.
Why Stored Fuel Needs Attention
Diesel in standby tanks can deteriorate over time due to water ingress, microbial growth (“diesel bug”), and particulate build-up. These contaminants clog filters, damage injectors, and risk generator failure during storms, power outages, or emergencies. Fuel polishing — circulating stored diesel through specialist filtration — removes water, sludge, and particulates, restoring fuel to optimal condition.
Benefits for Airport Operations
Reliability in emergencies: Clean fuel ensures generators start and run smoothly, avoiding costly downtime.
Cost savings: Extends fuel and component life, reducing disposal, replacement, and repair costs.
Extended lifespan: Keeps diesel usable longer, minimising waste and disruption.
WASP Fuel Polishing Systems — Proven Globally
Purpose-built for stored diesel, these systems remove water, microbial contamination, and particulates. With automated schedules, BMS integration, and minimal manual intervention, they’re ideal for managing multiple tanks across large sites.
Fuel polishing is a small investment that delivers big returns: improved reliability, lower costs, and stronger operational resilience. For airports, proven systems like WASP’s help ensure backup power is ready whenever it’s needed.
Best Practice
Include Fuel Polishing in preventive maintenance for all diesel backup generators.
Use automated systems for consistent treatment.
Pair polishing with periodic fuel testing to confirm quality.
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