Runcorn coach operator Anthony’s Travel is trialling a floating fuel pick-up system from FuelActive to assess its impact on diesel consumption and carbon emissions. The unit draws diesel from the top of the tank by floating on the stored fuel. FuelActive says that its system “has been proven to save operators up to 5% in fuel consumption.”
A secondary benefit of the floating approach is the avoidance of ingestion of contaminants or water that may have collected at the bottom of the tank. As a result, the engine is at lower risk of drawing in contaminated fuel, which can lead to additional fuel filter changes and more regular maintenance interventions, or breakdowns.
Anthony’s Travel and FuelActive were introduced via their memberships of trade body RHA. While Anthony’s Travel Managing Partner Richard Bamber (pictured, second from right) notes that various other products in the past have promised reduced fuel use, “none have really achieved anything.”
He adds that while the avoidance of drawing contaminated fuel is a positive – and that one coach in the Anthony’s fleet has suffered from it – the promised reduction in consumption, and in carbon emissions, is the operator’s primary reason for assessing the product.
Two vehicles in the Cheshire fleet will receive the device, including the coach that has suffered fuel contamination issues. Consumption and service requirements will be monitored, first for three months and then if necessary for a further period of the same duration.
FuelActive says the device is easily installed in around 45 minutes per vehicle. It requires a new entry to be cut into the top of the diesel tank and relocation of the fuel sender hose. There is no effect on the vehicle warranty. FuelActive guarantees the installation for five years.
Says RHA Technical Director Paul Allera (pictured, centre): “Unlike standard fuel stack pipes that draw fuel from the bottom, FuelActive’s innovative floating pick-up system always draws fuel from the top. That means the cleanest fuel is always delivered, ensuring a clean burn and resulting in reduced carbon emissions and a positive effect on MPG.”
As an SME, Anthony’s Travel currently uses around 24,000 litres of fuel per month. The most recent figures generated by RHA – for April – showed that the average price of bulk diesel was 143.79ppl during that month.
