How long does gasoline last in a plastic bottle? The expiration date of gasoline

06.04.2019

In gasoline stored for a long time, changes occur that can worsen its properties. This is primarily due to the chemical oxidation processes occurring under the influence of air. The storage of gasoline at oil depots is very different from the conditions for storing it at home, but even the most Better conditions storage of gasoline cannot prevent these processes completely.

Even under all conditions, the shelf life of gasoline cannot exceed 5 years. In addition to chemical changes that reduce the octane number of gasoline, there is a gradual volatilization of low-boiling hydrocarbons. This leads to the fact that leaded gasoline loses ethyl bromide, which removes lead from the combustion chamber, as a result of which carbon deposits form in the chamber.

The shelf life of gasoline in a canister that is hermetically sealed depends on temperature. On average, gasoline can be stored for up to a year. The higher the storage temperature, the shorter this period. It also depends on what material the canister is made of, since some substances, such as copper or tin, contribute to oxidation.

The shelf life of AI 92 gasoline does not exceed one year, because it contains numerous additives that are destroyed quite quickly and the octane number of gasoline drops even when stored in a sealed container and at low temperatures.

Storing gasoline in a plastic can will not help increase its shelf life, it will last as long as in a metal can. When transfused from a plastic canister, gasoline can spontaneously ignite, as the plastic accumulates static electricity. Therefore, it is better to use a metal container for storing gasoline.

For large stock fuel use barrels for storing gasoline, metal or plastic. Barrels should be opaque, with well-sealed stoppers. Plastic barrels must have good protection from static electricity.

Gasoline in fully filled barrels or cans is stored better than in half-empty containers. In full tanks there is no oxygen, so gasoline oxidizes less. Also, in half-empty barrels, an explosive vapor-air mixture is formed, which can easily cause an explosion. However, filling containers with this product by more than 95% is unacceptable.

Gasoline losses during storage are completely dependent on storage conditions - tightness and temperature. The higher the storage temperature, the greater the evaporation loss. Storing gasoline in a hermetically sealed container reduces its loss. Gasoline storage barrels must be sealed with rubber gaskets to prevent evaporation.

Basic rules for storing gasoline:

store in a tightly closed container in a cool dark room;
the storage room should be well ventilated;
it is necessary to exclude the presence of open flame and the occurrence of sparks in the room for storing gasoline.

Storing gasoline makes sense. This is a very consumable resource, the prices of which are constantly growing. Therefore, many people, if possible, make a supply of this fuel, storing it in the garage or at home. But the problem is that storing gasoline is by no means an easy task that requires appropriate preparation of conditions. This will be discussed further.

The expiration date of gasoline

It is not uncommon for people to stock up on hundreds of liters of gasoline using canisters and improvised tanks. After all, oil is stored underground for millions of years, why can't fuel lie for several years? However, this is a popular misconception.

Gasoline can deteriorate if proper storage conditions are not observed. Various temperature changes, humidity and many other factors lead to the fact that it loses its properties. This does not happen instantly, but with each day of improper storage, the efficiency of such fuel is significantly reduced.

There are 4 factors that cause the quality of gasoline to deteriorate over time:

evaporation;
oxidation;
additive breakdown;
the occurrence of sediment.

The first factor is evaporation. Gasoline contains a lot of volatile fractions necessary to increase octane number. If the fuel is not stored in a sealed container, and the conditions are not met temperature regime, then this leads to the evaporation of these substances.

The second factor is oxidation inherent in any active liquid. Fuel interacts with oxygen, which significantly reduces its quality. The use of oxidized gasoline leads to the deposition of resin in the vehicle's systems, as well as the formation of carbon deposits on candles and cylinders.

Additive degradation also affects fuel efficiency. Additives added to increase the octane number have a short life, so they are destroyed during long-term storage. Some items fall apart after 2 weeks after storage, so this factor should be taken into account.

Advice! When storing for a long time, you should never pre-add additives to gasoline. It is better to use them directly when filling the tank.

The last nuance, due to which the quality of the fuel deteriorates, is the appearance of sediment. Fuel settles long term, because of which fine fractions sink to the bottom. If such a concentrated precipitate falls into fuel system, it will have a negative effect on fuel filter and may cause damage.

As a result of these reasons, the shelf life of gasoline under ideal conditions does not exceed 5 years, and if neglected, is only 1 year. Considering such significant difference in the duration of storage, it is preferable to comply with all factors. This will not only increase the shelf life, but also reduce the loss of fuel properties.

Storage tanks

The ideal container for storing gasoline is a sealed metal tank. For this, a tank, barrel, canister and other similar vessels are suitable. As for plastic tanks, they are undesirable. There are two reasons for this:

oxidation and chemical interaction with plastic;
accumulation of static charge on the vessel.

Plastic containers, especially simple bottles, are highly discouraged for storage. Gasoline may react with the material, resulting in loss of fuel properties and destruction of the container itself. The second reason is the risk of sparks when pouring liquid. Plastic is capable of accumulating a static charge, which can lead to ignition.

Interesting! Some types of plastic do not react with fuel. Often they are used for its transportation and storage.

Otherwise, the storage of gasoline in plastic tanks is no worse than in metal ones. The shelf life is approximately the same, it is more influenced by other factors. Therefore, it is worth choosing the option that will ensure reliability and tightness.

ground tanks;
barrels and tank trucks;
buried tanks;

Although the shelf life of fuel in cans is the shortest, they are also used as reservoirs. The best option there will be buried or semi-buried tanks, which are hidden from the sun and do not heat up due to the ground. At home, the best solution is to bury a barrel with an airtight lid along the top line into the ground, and then use it as a permanent tank for gasoline.

Conditions for fuel

storage tank;
access to sunlight;
temperature regime;
tightness.

The reservoir has already been discussed previously. The ideal option is a buried metal barrel with an airtight lid. It is practically not inferior to large-scale tanks at fuel stations in terms of storage quality. This choice is optimal at home.

Access to sunlight is the same temperature regime, the direct influence of the sun on fuel. It is necessary to hide the tank from it so that it does not heat up. The best solution is to put it in the basement or bury it.

Next comes the temperature. Better fuel storage at temperatures around 20-30 degrees, although this figure can be reduced. It is important that it does not exceed 70 degrees, which leads to intense evaporation. It is also impossible for gasoline to freeze, so temperatures below -10 degrees are undesirable.

The last nuance is tightness and contact with air, which must be observed during storage. It is important to reduce the intensity of oxidation, but it is impossible to completely avoid it. To do this, two factors must be taken into account: tightness and the amount of air in the tank. With the first, everything is clear, you just need to securely close the lid and isolate the tank. As for the amount of air, it should not be more than 5% of the volume of the container.

Shelf life

Shelf life varies from 1 to 5 years. It depends on the fulfillment of the above conditions. But in some cases, the period may be even shorter if there is a complete disregard for the requirements. This is especially true when gasoline is stored in open tanks, where various rubbish can get into. The same applies to ready-made fuel mixtures, which are recommended to be used immediately after purchase.

The timing table can be represented as follows:

Failure to comply with temperature conditions can reduce shelf life by 20-35%, and the lack of tightness and oxygen access - by 20%. In the second case, the period is not so much reduced, but the car suffers from oxidized fuel.

Interesting! Diesel fuel has where longer term storage up to 10 years. It is preferable to store it than gasoline.

Therefore, gasoline can be stored for up to 5 years under ideal conditions. But reaching them is difficult, so a barrel in a basement or other cool place is often sufficient. This will allow storing fuel for up to 2 years, while maintaining its properties.

Storage of the oil mixture and differences in the brand of gasoline

If initially there is a mixture of gasoline and oil, which is necessary for operation two-stroke engines, it is not recommended to store it. Separately, these components have a much longer service life than together. If you mix them, then you can use this mixture only for 6 months, after which it only harms the car.

If the car requires the use of such a mixture, then it is better to purchase it as needed or store gasoline and oil separately. This option will be optimal, because the duration of use of the components increases significantly.

As for the brand of gasoline, this practically does not affect the shelf life and conditions. It is only worth noting that the AI-95 is able to tolerate slightly lower temperatures than others. However, this nuance is insignificant, because no one will lower the temperature to a critical level. Other factors are absolutely indifferent, like a set of additives. Most of them will break down during storage, so it is recommended to purchase clean fuel.

Often, storing gasoline is used not as a means of saving, but as a reserve stock in the car. For such tasks, special plastic cans having an airtight lid and an easy-to-place shape. This video will help you choose such tanks, where you will find tips on choosing the right canister for traveling and storing gasoline in the car:

Taking care of the car makes the driver delve into any little thing associated with it. The same applies to gasoline as well. Often you have to be interested in literally everything - brand, quality, manufacturer and expiration date. One of the problems associated with this is the storage of gasoline for a long time.

Long-term storage of gasoline

There are many differing opinions on this matter. Someone thinks that this is possible, others hold the opposite point of view. It should be interesting and useful to understand what affects the shelf life of fuel at home, and how it is best done - in a canister, or maybe in a car tank.

What is the shelf life of gasoline?

There is also a rather curious situation with this concept. According to the Soviet GOST of 1977, the shelf life (warranty) is five years. However, the standard has been canceled, and according to the current GOST (1997) it is equal to one year from the date of manufacture (for all brands).

Considering these figures, it is worth thinking about such a moment. In Soviet times, there were no high-octane fuels and technologies for their production. Simple straight-run gasoline was common, and this can explain its long storage. So, like ordinary food, fuel has its own shelf life.

Does gasoline deteriorate during storage?

It must be understood that gasoline is not the easiest substance. It consists of various hydrocarbons, the amount and type of which is determined by the manufacturing technology, and in addition, numerous additives added by the manufacturer. At the time of leaving the factory, the product meets the requirements, but then it begins to change. And this is due to several factors.

It's no secret that gasoline contains volatile fractions that are added to increase the octane number. The probability of its change is higher, the longer the storage period of the fuel. It is clear that not in the direction of improving performance. When volatile substances evaporate, the ratio between the fractions is disturbed and the quality of gasoline decreases.

It is clear that if this happens in a car tank, then there will be nothing to worry about, as a rule, such gasoline is used in a short time. But evaporation adversely affects the storage of gasoline at home.

Oxidation

All substances interact with oxygen. Gasoline is no exception. As a result, resinous substances are formed in it. However, over time, their number increases, which is why gasoline deteriorates. Its use can lead to tar deposits on pipelines, tanks, as well as increased deposits in cylinders and spark plugs.

The oxidation process itself takes a long time and takes several stages. Its speed depends on the surrounding conditions (pressure, temperature), as well as on the fuel manufacturing technology. Here it is necessary to make a small digression.

The ability of gasoline to interact with oxygen (to oxidation) is characterized by the induction period parameter. It is understood as the time required for the start of oxidation at a temperature of 100 ° and a certain pressure of oxygen. This is tested in the laboratory. The higher this parameter, the higher the stability of gasoline.

It primarily depends on the carbon composition of the fuel, which is determined by the production technology. Thermal cracking, pyrolysis, catalytic cracking gasolines are most susceptible to oxidation, their induction period is 50-250 minutes. The products obtained from direct distillation and catalytic reforming are more stable.

Induction period for gasoline produced:

catalytic cracking is 240-1000 minutes;
direct haul - 1200 minutes;
catalytic reforming - over 1500 minutes.

About storage

Nevertheless, fuel can be stored for the future, as stated in the current normative documents, and the brand of fuel does not matter. The shelf life of AI 92 gasoline and the shelf life of AI 95 gasoline will be the same. However, it is worth considering that the quality of the fuel depends on the conditions in which this occurs.

Usually, storage is carried out in a metal barrel or canister; it is better not to create gasoline reserves in plastic containers. The fact is that when it is transfused, synthetics become electrified, the result of this can be a spark and a fire. It is for this reason that gas stations strictly monitor this, and categorically refuse to release fuel into such containers.

The author once had to walk several kilometers to the gas station on foot (he dried up a few hours after buying the car - the seller assured that he had filled a lot), but since he came with a plastic canister, he literally begged the gas station workers on his knees to let him pour gasoline there.

And although any kind of gasoline is allowed to be stored for a certain period, it is the conditions of a particular place that determine whether the fuel deteriorates or not during this time. So, fever leads to increased evaporation and oxidation. Therefore, it is recommended to store fuel in a dark, cool room and metal containers. In such conditions, it can stay for more than one year without changing its characteristics.

As confirmation of the above, one can regard the order of the Ministry of Defense regulating the storage periods for various conditions, an extract from which is given below.

True, it is worth noting that fuel with an induction period coefficient value of more than 900 is laid down for a long period. Naturally, gasoline must be stored in full, closed containers, this will limit oxygen access to it.

In cases where the car is parked for a long time, the fuel will retain its characteristics for at least a year. Some drivers recommend adding fresh fuel when starting the engine after such a break.

Shelf life of gasoline with oil

Separately, it is worth touching on two-stroke engines. As you know, for their work it is necessary to mix gasoline with oil. Such a mixture is prepared in advance, and it is stored in a tank or canister. It is simply impossible to determine the exact amount of fuel. So often after the end of the work, its finished mixture with oil remains. It is worth proceeding from the rule - its shelf life is less than individual pure products.

Although there are repeatedly confirmed facts that such a mixture with gasoline oil for two-stroke motors works and after a sufficiently long period of time after compilation, it is not recommended to store it for a long time in a canister or tank. The usual practice is that a period of six months is considered normal. The main thing is that the components of the mixture are of good quality.

Gasoline is one of the main concerns of the driver. He is constantly wondering where to find quality fuel and how to survive the constant increase in fuel prices? In order to somehow protect themselves from such problems, many try to create a small supply of their own in a canister in the garage. However, long-term storage of gasoline requires compliance with certain rules. With their implementation, it is quite possible to create your own fuel reserves, and for a while get rid of constant worries about fuel.

Storing gasoline makes sense only if special containers are used for this. Considering that such consumable is very valuable, many drivers stock up on it, keeping it in the garage or basement. But what is the shelf life of gasoline and does it make sense to store it for a long time? This will be discussed in our article. We will also tell you whether the properties of gasoline change during storage and what composition this type of fuel has.

Shelf life according to GOST

As for GOSTs, it is indicated there that the shelf life of gasoline of any brand is 5 years from the date of production. Small temperature changes are allowed during the storage period. However, it is assumed that the fuel will be stored in special underground tanks, it will not heat up from sunlight and outdoor air, and its contact with oxygen will be minimal. In the event that the required storage conditions are not observed, the shelf life of gasoline drops significantly. It is unlikely that buyers will be able to comply with the conditions for storing fuel at home or in the basement, so gasoline will lose its properties much earlier - within 1-2 years.

Does gasoline go bad

If the storage conditions are not met, then gasoline will deteriorate. Temperature changes, contact with air, chemical reactions that occur when fuel comes into contact with the surfaces of containers where it is stored - all these are the reasons why gasoline loses its properties during storage. There are main factors leading to a decrease in fuel quality:

Evaporation.
Oxidation.
Sediment.
Breakdown of additives.

There are many fractions in gasoline that quickly evaporate. As part of the fuel, they increase its octane number, and when they evaporate, the octane number decreases. This happens if the fuel is in a leaky container during storage.

Oxidation is a process that is inherent in almost all active liquids. If the fuel comes into contact with air, then oxidation reactions are inevitable, which reduces the quality of gasoline. This will lead to the formation of soot and tar in the fuel system of the car, as well as on the walls of the engine cylinders.

It is also worth considering that additives are included in the composition of gasoline. They are added to increase the octane number, but their functional life is extremely short, since the additives are destroyed during long-term storage. Some of them, if stored improperly, may precipitate after 3-4 weeks. Consequently, the octane number of the fuel will drop. Of course, this problem can be solved by adding third-party additives (sold in auto shops) to gasoline to increase the octane number, but still this will not solve the problem completely.

Because of these reasons, the shelf life of gasoline does not exceed five years. In the event that storage conditions are neglected, then gasoline will lose its properties much earlier - within just one year.

The expiration date of gasoline in the tank

In fact, there is no point in stocking up on gasoline without special underground storage. In extreme cases, you can stock up on small portions of fuel that will be used up during the year. But what about the fuel that is in the tank?

It is undesirable for gasoline to be stored in a car tank for a very long time. Due to education a large number resins due to fuel oxidation and a decrease in the octane number, gasoline harms the car. Firstly, resins are deposited on the walls of the cylinders, which adversely affects the operation of the motor. Secondly, lowering the octane number entails detonation in the engine.

Also in the tank of the car there are elements due to which oxidation occurs faster. For example, there may be copper elements or brass - a mesh and an intake tube are made from these materials fuel tank. When interacting with these metals, the oxidation process is faster. And if, with all this, the car is standing in the sun in the heat, then oxidation is accelerated even more. Therefore, the shelf life of gasoline in the tank is extremely short. If the car has been in the garage for a whole year, then it is better to drain the gasoline that remains in the tank and fill it with fresh.

Storage tanks

Considering the fact that in car tank the shelf life of gasoline is short, fuel can be stored in special canisters and metal barrels. Some car owners store fuel in plastic bottles, but it's best not to do this, as gasoline reacts with plastic and builds up a static charge. This happens very slowly, but still plastic storage containers are not suitable. Theoretically, with the accumulation of a static charge, a spark can occur when gasoline is poured from a plastic container into a tank. Therefore, it is forbidden to store fuel in this way.

Otherwise, the shelf life of gasoline in plastic containers will be approximately the same as in metal.

Ground metal tanks.
Tankers and barrels.
Buried tanks.
Canisters.

As for storing gasoline in a canister, this is allowed, but the shelf life of the fuel in this case will be short. The best option is a cistern buried in the ground, which is hidden from the sun and cooled by the ground. At home, people often resort to another option: they bury a metal barrel in the ground, close it tightly with a lid. This option of a permanent fuel tank is not bad.

Storage conditions

If you store the fuel yourself, then you need to comply with a number of conditions, which will increase the shelf life of gasoline. What to consider:

Storage tank.
Sun access.
temperature.
Tightness.

We have already talked about the tank and came to the conclusion that a metal container, buried or completely buried up to the level of the lid in the ground, would be ideal. Such a buried tank in terms of fuel storage efficiency will not differ from tanks that are used on filling stations. A similar option at home is optimal.

Many car owners use metal tanks in their areas without burying them in the ground. They stand on outdoors. This option is worse, since the sun's rays fall on the fuel container, and the gasoline inside heats up. As a result of heating, it can evaporate, which leads to a decrease in the octane number. Naturally, the shelf life of gasoline in similar conditions goes down. At a minimum, the storage tank should be placed in the shade or in a basement, but this is still worse than a buried tank. It is worth considering that normal temperature fuel storage - 20 degrees above zero. In extreme heat, fuel in a closed metal barrel on the street under the open sun can heat up to 70 degrees. At this temperature, intensive evaporation of the substances that make up gasoline will begin.

Also, fuel must not be allowed to freeze. It is also undesirable to store it at -10 degrees.

Shelf life depending on capacity

As we have already found out, according to GOST, fuel is stored for five years under ideal conditions. If you bury the tank in the ground, then the storage conditions will be close to ideal. In other cases, gasoline will deteriorate faster.

How much fuel will be stored depending on the tank:

Car tank - six months.
Metal canister - 1 year.
A cistern or barrel located in the basement - about two years.
A special reservoir that stands on a plot in the shade - about three years.
A special tank completely buried underground - up to five years.

Therefore, if you do not have a special tank, then there is not much point in stocking up on fuel. It is also worth considering that many gas stations in Russia sell far from the best quality gasoline, which may not comply with GOST at all. Its shelf life is reduced already at purchase.

Diesel fuel storage

It makes sense to stock up on solar oil. This fuel does not deteriorate and retains its properties for ten years. Therefore, car owners diesel engines may well buy fuel in large quantities for later storage. However, diesel fuel also oxidizes upon contact with air and volatilizes when high temperatures. Here, the storage conditions will be the same as in the case of gasoline.

Non-compliance with the temperature conditions for storing diesel fuel or gasoline reduces the shelf life of the fuel by 30%. The lack of tightness and free access of oxygen to the fuel reduces the shelf life by another 20%.

Should I use expired gasoline?

Under no circumstances should this be done. If there is a suspicion that the fuel is expired, then it is better to play it safe and not fill it into the tank. After all, this can be fraught with serious problems with the fuel system of the car and the engine. Oil deposits on the walls of the engine cylinders will have a bad effect on the efficiency of its work and accelerate wear. The result of such an experiment is overhaul motor, which is now very expensive.

Conclusion

Now you know how to store gasoline and what containers are best used for this. In general, today the idea of creating a fuel reserve is not entirely relevant, because there is no shortage of gasoline in the country, and its prices have stabilized long ago.

Fuel stored for a long time loses some of its properties. Here it is worth mentioning the chemical processes that occur under the influence of oxygen and temperature changes. At the same time, even taking into account the situation with compliance with storage conditions and the necessary indicators, the shelf life of gasoline will not exceed 5–6 years.

Speaking about the shelf life, we can mention the Soviet GOST of 1977, where the storage time is declared as five years. True, now this standard has been canceled. After that, you can smoothly transfer to the current GOST (1997), where the shelf life is already limited to one year.

AI 92
1 year
AI 95
1 year
A76

According to GOST

2 years

In general, the shelf life of gasoline does not exceed six years. However, in this case one can argue if we consider the issue from the point of view of the type of gasoline.

The shelf life of AI 92 does not exceed a year, since it contains all kinds of additives that destroy the octane number of gasoline, and quite quickly. The octane number also falls in the case of non-compliance with the principles of storage:

tightness of storage;
room with low temperature.

If we consider the shelf life of AI 95 gasoline, then it coincides with AI 92 gasoline. However, it must be repeated that the quality of fuel is directly dependent on storage conditions.

The warranty period for the safety of motor gasoline A76 is 2 years from the date of manufacture of gasoline.

Storage in canisters

The issue of storing gasoline in canisters also comes down to storage conditions, where temperature and air humidity are basic factors.

Of the secondary parameters, it is necessary to note the material for the manufacture of canisters. Plastic variant with a sealed cork is able to extend the shelf life, but not more than a couple of months. When stored in aluminum tanks and steel cans, we can talk about an increase in the shelf life of half a year or more.

What to do after the expiration date

If the expiration date is exceeded, chemical changes will occur in gasoline, significantly reducing the octane number. In the case of using such fuel, lead deposits are formed in the combustion chamber of the engine, leading to changes in its functioning.

As advice, it can be noted that gasoline should not be stored in containers made of polyethylene or steel.

Important! The optimal shelf life of fuel is 3-6 months.

If all the above conditions are met, the shelf life increases to 12 months.

Uncertainty about the geopolitical situation in the country in the short term and steadily rising prices for Regular-92 (Ai-92), Premium-95 (Ai-95) and Super-98 (Ai-98) motor fuel make some car owners think about barrels and canisters hidden in the basement of the garage since perestroika times, to fill up with a margin and not worry about rising prices. In this context, it will be relevant next question: What is the shelf life of gasoline? After all, the expediency of long-term reserves and their volume directly depend on this.

The initial boiling point clearly demonstrates the possibility of evaporation of a certain part fuel mixture at ambient temperature, which in some regions of the country can reach, in summer time, values in 45 - 50 ° C.

That is why automotive fuels are divided into winter ones, for which the parameter of the initial boiling point is not standardized, and summer ones, which have a limit on the falling temperature of the first drop during fractional distillation - at least 35 ° C. This guarantees the safety of fuel in a car tank or canister during short-term storage .

Not a single standard regulating the requirements for the composition, testing, transportation and storage of light petroleum products mentions the possibility, duration and conditions of storage of motor gasoline in small containers, including canisters and barrels, which, by definition, are intended for short-term storage for the purpose of carrying or transporting fuel for refueling in a car tank.

What happens to fuel during storage?

The manufacturer does not guarantee the preservation of the properties of automotive fuel, regardless of its brand (Ai-92, AI-95, AI-98), and with an increase in the octane number of gasoline, the storage time decreases. Reasons for the short shelf life of properties automotive fuels some:

Commercial fuel is a compounded product consisting of products of primary distillation, secondary processing of straight-run gasoline and deep processing of heavy residues, as well as a number of additives designed to adjust individual characteristics (octane number, saturated vapor pressure, thermal stability, oxidizing power, etc.). P.).
Since gasoline is not a homogeneous substance, but is a mixture of components related in properties that have different densities and other physical and chemical properties, during long-term storage, the separation of the mixture due to the difference in densities is not excluded.
When gasoline separates during long-term storage, the components with the lowest density and, accordingly, the lowest boiling point are on top, in close proximity to the neck of the barrel or canister, that is, a potential source of leakage.
In the absence of a seal or its loose fit to the neck of the container, as well as when opening and pouring or inspecting, gradual evaporation of low-boiling hydrocarbons, including high-octane additives (methyl tert-butyl ether, monomethanolamine), occurs.
As a result of evaporation of light components and additives, important indicators fuel - the octane number and the lowest detonation temperature, as a result of which, if such fuel is poured into the tank, the car will start poorly (especially in winter), it will be difficult to pick up speed.

The previously accepted storage period of 5 years, which is exaggerated on various resources, is applicable for fuel that does not contain detergent additives and alcohols with an induction period of at least 1200 minutes (GOST R 51105-97, table 1). That is, straight-run gasoline or reformate is subject to long-term storage, without low-boiling components (propane-butane fraction) and additives. Automobile gasoline sold at gas stations (AI-92, 95, 98) does not meet this requirement, therefore, the guarantee does not apply to it.

Under what conditions is gasoline stored for a long time?

A logical question arises: How is gasoline stored at a refinery or tank farm for a long time?

The answer is simple, commercial gasoline is not stored for long period even in tanks that meet all requirements (with a pontoon, a breather valve, a vapor recovery system, etc.). Fuel components are subject to storage, and each of them is stored under its own, strictly individual conditions (excessive pressure, temperature, etc.). And immediately before the sale of products, a batch of the required volume and parameters is prepared, all components are thoroughly mixed, analyzed and sent for retail sale.

At filling stations, gasoline is stored in tanks of underground or above-ground types, with breathing valves that allow excess pressure to be released (i.e., low-boiling components). Long-term storage at gas stations is also not carried out, due to the rapid turnover of products.

By stating the above:

You can store fuel for a long time, but at the same time it will lose its consumer properties;
Preservation of the necessary properties is ensured by the filling of fuel at a gas station;
Information about the possibility of storing fuel for a year or even five years is a myth that does not apply to commercial motor gasoline, which is sold at gas stations;
It is possible to store fuel for five years if it is a product of atmospheric distillation of oil (A-76) or reformation (A-92, 95) without additives and other additives.

NEW! Check the gas, then fill up! Already on sale!.wmv

Gasoline is a highly consumable resource, the prices of which are constantly rising.

Therefore, many people, if possible, make a supply of this fuel, storing it in the garage or at home. But the problem is that storing gasoline is by no means an easy task that requires appropriate preparation of conditions. This will be discussed further.

The expiration date of gasoline

Gasoline can deteriorate if proper storage conditions are not observed. Changes in temperature, humidity and many other factors lead to the fact that it loses its properties. This does not happen instantly, but with each day of improper storage, the efficiency of such fuel is significantly reduced.

There are 4 factors due to which the quality of gasoline deteriorates over time: - evaporation; - oxidation; - decomposition of additives;

The occurrence of sediment.

The first factor is evaporation. Gasoline has a lot of volatile fractions necessary to increase the octane number. If the fuel is not stored in a sealed container, and the conditions do not comply with the temperature regime, then this leads to the evaporation of these substances.

The second factor is oxidation, which is inherent in any active liquid. Fuel interacts with oxygen, which significantly reduces its quality. The use of oxidized gasoline leads to the deposition of resin in the vehicle's systems, as well as the formation of carbon deposits on candles and cylinders.

Advice! When storing for a long time, you should never pre-add additives to gasoline. It is better to use them directly when filling the tank.

The last nuance, due to which the quality of the fuel deteriorates, is the appearance of sediment. The fuel settles for a long time, due to which fine fractions sink to the bottom. If such concentrated sediment enters the fuel system, it will adversely affect the fuel filter and may cause a breakdown.

As a result of these reasons, the shelf life of gasoline under ideal conditions does not exceed 5 years, and if they are neglected, it is only 1 year. Given such a significant difference in the duration of storage, it is preferable to comply with all factors. This will not only increase the shelf life, but also reduce the loss of fuel properties.

Storage tanks

The ideal container for storing gasoline is a sealed metal tank.

For this, a tank, barrel, canister and other similar vessels are suitable. As for plastic tanks, they are undesirable. There are two reasons for this: - oxidation and chemical interaction with plastic;

Accumulation of a static charge on a vessel.

Plastic containers, especially simple bottles, are highly discouraged for storage.

Gasoline may react with the material, resulting in loss of fuel properties and destruction of the container itself. The second reason is the risk of sparks when pouring liquid. Plastic is capable of accumulating a static charge, which can lead to ignition.

Interesting! Some types of plastic do not react with fuel. Often they are used for its transportation and storage.

Canisters.

Although the shelf life of fuel in cans is the shortest, they are also used as reservoirs. The best option would be buried or semi-buried tanks, which are hidden from the sun and do not heat up due to the ground.

Fuel storage conditions

If you still store gasoline on your own, then you should follow all the conditions. This will increase the period of its use up to 5 years, while in the canister this period does not exceed 1 year. Therefore, the following factors should be taken into account during storage: - fire safety; - tank (metal, buried in the ground); - lack of sunlight; - temperature conditions (optimal + 20 ... 30 degrees, minimum -10 degrees);

Tightness (securely close the lid, the presence of air is not more than 5% of the volume of the tank).

Shelf life

Shelf life varies from 1 to 5 years. It depends on the fulfillment of the above conditions. But in some cases, the period may be even shorter if there is a complete disregard for the requirements.

The table of terms can be presented as follows: - car tank - up to 6 months; - canister - up to 1 year; - barrel and tank - up to 2 years; - special tank - up to 3 years;

Buried tank - up to 5 years.

Non-compliance with temperature conditions can reduce the shelf life by 20-35%, and the lack of tightness and oxygen access by 20%. In the second case, the period is not so much reduced, but the car suffers from oxidized fuel.

Interesting! Diesel fuel has a much longer shelf life of up to 10 years. It is preferable to store it than gasoline.

Storage of the oil mixture and differences in the brand of gasoline

If initially there is a mixture of gasoline and oil, which is necessary for the operation of two-stroke engines, then it is not recommended to store it. Separately, these components have a much longer service life than together.

As for the brand of gasoline, this practically does not affect the shelf life and conditions. It is only worth noting that the AI-95 is able to tolerate slightly lower temperatures than others.

However, this nuance is insignificant, because no one will lower the temperature to a critical level. Other factors are absolutely indifferent, like a set of additives. Most of them will break down during storage, so it is recommended to purchase clean fuel.

Often, storing gasoline is used not as a means of saving, but as a reserve stock in the car. For such tasks, special plastic canisters with a sealed lid and a convenient shape for placement will be optimal.

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