Diesel Fuel Nozzle

Along with meters, companies should consider the diesel fuel nozzle they use when implementing a fuel management system. There are three areas where a diesel fuel nozzle can really help save when drivers are refueling: protecting against theft, protecting against idling losses and preventing leaks. Over one percent of a fleet's fuel budget usually goes towards theft losses. This is a vast amount, especially considering the ever-increasing costs of diesel fuel today. These costs can only be expected to increase which is why managers need to take action against theft before it occurs.Even with a fuel meter management system in place, theft is still possible and usually occurs right after refilling. It is difficult for even the most adept managers to spot discrepancies in fuel reports if a driver or third-party steals fuel right after the nozzle has been put down. For that reason, it is very important for a diesel fuel nozzle to have an automatic shut-off system.

The diesel fuel nozzle will instantly be shut off the moment that it is put back into the nozzle cradle. It is important that the system in place immediately recognize that the diesel fuel nozzle has been put back so that another driver or third-party can't take advantage of a driver's meter. This type of theft is almost impossible to detect. When it is detected, it is even more difficult to identify the culprit. Most managers choose a diesel fuel nozzle which has a spout size that works well with the vehicle being driven or the machinery in use. However, there is a tendency for managers to choose a diesel fuel nozzle which is smaller than necessary because the smaller size will allow for use with all sizes of equipment. While this theory is correct, choosing a diesel fuel nozzle which is too small can cause long-term losses. A small nozzle will cause fueling time to take longer and inadvertently lead to longer idling times. With large trucks, idling time can cause significant losses of fuel and thus significant losses of money.

A diesel fuel nozzle should at least have an automatic shut-off for when the tank is full. There are obvious safety reasons for this because a diesel fuel spill poses serious risks. Aside from the safety reasons, even a small spillage of diesel fuel can cause more expenses in cleanup measures. It may also lead to downtime at the pump which can cause major problems for large fleets. When machinery and other equipment is in question, downtime due to spills will most certainly result in a loss of revenue. Even though a plastic diesel fuel nozzle is by far the cheapest, they are not the best choice when it comes to fuel management. These nozzles generally lack advanced features such as various position stay-open latches, the capability to handle large pressure flows, and automatic shut-off. Plastic fuel nozzles are especially bad choices because they can easily crack and cause spillage. For fuel management systems, it is best to choose a diesel fuel nozzle which is made from cast aluminum.