England UK: ConocoPhilips Distributor Completes Fuel Depot Installation

All four Barton Petroleum depots are now fitted with Alpeco bottom loading skids. The most recent of which was the Oakley depot where improved safety and efficiency were the principal goals to be achieved. Originally a top loading facility, it has now been transformed by the introduction of the Alpeco supplied and installed 3-arm bottom loading skid which has improved the depot layout markedly and reduced tanker loading time whilst enhancing operator safety.

The skid, which was designed and built by Alpeco, was delivered to site on time and was installed, commissioned and working within 1 week. Operational disruption was minimised by keeping the existing top load facility fully operational until the new skid came into service.

Richard Burton, Managing Director of Barton Petroleum commented ‘We are always looking for equipment manufacturers who offer a quality product and reliable after sales service. Alpeco fits the bill perfectly and, critically, they are the only company able to fulfil our requirements in terms of both tanker and depot equipment.'

There has long been a requirement in the oil distributor industry for a cost effective Bottom Loading system that does not require the complex and expensive automation commonly found at major petroleum terminals. The skids supplied by Alpeco to Barton Petroleum incorporate all the necessary safety and technical features needed to provide a safe, reliable and economic solution for filling road tankers.

The framework of the new bottom loading skids is designed from heavy grade galvanised steel channel, angle and plate for maximum longevity even in the harshest operating conditions and climates. A variety of delivery flow rates, up to 2400LPM, can be achieved thanks to the highly efficient pumping systems being used. Highly accurate Liquid Control flow meters offering accuracy better than 0.15% ensure that all fuel is accounted for. Safety is the prime consideration and all Alpeco skid units are built to comply with all necessary safety standards and ATEX requirements.

 While the site modifications were underway, in addition to the skid, Alpeco also supplied and installed a centralised secure off-loading point for tankers delivering to the depot. A steel enclosure houses dedicated fill points for each storage tank whilst a 'bunded tank' below contains spillage which can be emptied using an electric pump. Additional security is afforded by a lockable roller shutter door.

In addition to investment at Oakley, the company has also acquired 2 new 4-wheeled tankers built by Maidment Tankers. Both are fully equipped with Alpeco tank and metering equipment along with the TE550 Checkmate system control module.

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