Being a “Green” RIB Owner – Part 3

RIB Refuelling

Petrol or diesel may be spilled during the act of fueling: as back splash out the fuel intake or as overflow out the vent fitting. Spills of this sort harm aquatic life, waste money, and can result in stains on the hull and damage to the gel coat and striping.

Follow these tips to avoid problems:

Fill tanks to no more than 90 percent capacity–gas that is drawn from cool storage tanks will expand as it warms up onboard your vessel. To determine when the tank is 90 percent full, listen to the filler pipe, use a sounding stick (if possible), and be aware of your tank’s volume.

Rather than filling your tank upon your return to port, wait and fill it just before leaving on your next trip. This practice will reduce spills due to thermal expansion because the fuel will be used before it has a chance to warm up.

Fill portable tanks ashore where spills are less likely to occur and easier to clean up.

Use oil absorbent pads to catch all drips.

Slow down at the beginning and end of fueling.