A wooden fuel tank measuring stick, dipstick, or sounding rod is a traditional tool used to measure the amount of fuel or other liquids in a wooden storage tank. It consists of a long wooden rod with markings or notches indicating different measurement levels.
The wooden stick is typically made from durable, non-absorbent wood, such as pine or cedar, to prevent it from soaking up the measured liquid. Using non-reactive lumber that will not contaminate the fuel or other substances in the tank is essential.
Learn about fuel and the tank measuring stick, and expand your understanding.
What are the Different Types of Oil Tank Monitor?
Most people these days don’t think about keeping an eye on their heating oil. This year, however, you may be spending more time at home, which can lead to an increase in your oil usage. We will discuss several types of oil tank gauges in this post, including dip sticks, float gauges, and Smart Oil Gauge®.
Oil Tank Dipstick
Traditionally, heating oil gauges have been dipsticks. Using a dipstick, you can manually measure how much oil is in a tank. Using a heating oil tank chart, you can determine how many gallons are in the fuel oil tank once you have taken this measurement. Below ground tanks are the most common reason to use dipsticks, since no other method exists to measure their contents.
Using an extendable yard stick like this, you can measure how much heating oil is in a tank. In most cases, this is used in conjunction with an underground oil tank, which is usually not equipped with a visual gauge.
Fuel Tank Float Gauge
Another type of gauge is a float gauge. Above ground tanks are most often gauged with this type. Floats sit atop the oil and move downward as the level decreases. There is only an approximate level of oil in the tank when using this type of fuel oil gauge.
In heating oil tanks, float gauges like this are very common. In general, it provides a rough indication of how much oil is in the tank, but it is not extremely accurate.
Smart Oil Gauge – WiFi Heating Oil Gauge
Smart Oil Gauges are the most modern heating oil gauges. Using an ultrasonic sensor, this type of oil tank gauge measures the level of oil precisely. With the exception of the top 8 inches of the tank, it is extremely accurate. This high level of oil means that the ultrasonic sensor cannot read the oil accurately when the oil is close to it.
How To Use A Wooden Fuel Tank Measuring Stick?
To use a wooden fuel tank measuring stick, you would lower the stick vertically into the tank until it reaches the bottom. To check the liquid level, lift the stick carefully and note where it meets the liquid.
Pull the stick back up and read the level from where the liquid reached the stick. The markings or notches on the stick correspond to specific volume levels. It allows you to determine the amount of liquid in the tank accurately.
Wooden measuring sticks have been commonly used for measuring fuel levels in rural or remote areas where wooden storage tanks are still prevalent.
They are relatively simple, low-cost tools that do not require any complex machinery or technology.
How to Measure Oil Manually with Wooden Dipstick?
It is especially useful to have heating oil during the winter months when it is cold outside. As a result, when driving your car, you should pay close attention to the level of heating oil more than you do to the fuel gauge. There are usually gauges on the outside of the newer oil tanks that tell you how much oil is left. The majority of oil tank models do not have these gauges, however. Performing manual oil level checks is necessary in such cases. Dipsticks for heating oil tanks are needed for this task. The dipstick is almost always provided free of charge by most companies.
- The tank cap needs to be removed. There are two caps, which may cause confusion. Make sure you choose the one with the fill hole, which is the bigger one.
- The dipstick should be inserted straight into the oil tank until it reaches the bottom. Make sure you do it correctly.
- The dipstick should be taken out. Use a pencil to mark the top of the wet mark.
- Ensure that the fill hole is tightly closed with the cap.
How to Check Car Oil with Wooden Dipstick?
Regular oil checks are very important for your car. Having too little oil can cause the machine to overheat and seize. The process is actually very simple, especially with the use of an oil tank stick.
- Make sure the engine has cooled down for at least ten minutes before touching it. Failure to do this can cause severe burns on your skin.
- Make sure the hood is open by pressing a button or manually if there is one inside the car. If you want to check the oil, open it completely and use the metal prop to prevent it from closing.
- Clean the dipstick with a rag after removing it. By doing this, you can ensure that you will be able to take accurate measurements of oil. The surface may have marks from oil splashes while the car was moving when you first take it out. The dipstick should be clean when you begin.
- Make sure the dipstick is inserted straight this time. Make sure there have been no unnecessary movements by pulling the dipstick out again, wiping the dipstick, and re-inserting it.
- You can measure oil levels by looking for “full” and “add” marks on the dipstick. A mark like this tells you whether more oil is needed or if there is enough already.
- It is important to check the quantity of your oil after you have checked the quantity of your oil. Whether it is clear or not is irrelevant. Cloudy or dirty conditions, however, indicate that it is time for an oil change.
Specification of The Wooden Fuel Tank Measuring Stick
Length
A compact measuring stick has a shorter distance, such as 3 feet (0.9 meters) or 4 feet (1.2 meters). It allows for more accessible storage and portability.
Material
Made of kiln-dried seasoned hardwood. All edges are rounded slightly for smooth handling. A polypropylene button is firmly fixed to the base of the pole to ensure adequate protection. These materials are strong enough to withstand regular use but are lighter and more compact than denser woods.
Folding Design
Implement a folding mechanism that allows the measuring stick to be collapsed or folded into smaller segments. This feature enhances portability and makes it easier to store in limited space.
Slim Profile
Opt for a thinner and narrower stick while maintaining sufficient rigidity for accurate measurements. A slimmer profile contributes to the compactness of the measuring stick.
Markings
Utilize precise and clear markings along the stick’s length to indicate volume levels. Consider using etched or engraved markings instead of protruding notches to minimize bulk and maintain a sleek appearance.
Protective Coating
Apply a thin layer of protective finish or coating to the measuring stick to enhance durability and resistance to moisture. However, ensure that the coating does not add significant thickness to maintain compactness.
Features Of Wooden Fuel Tank Measuring Stick!
Customization Options
Some manufacturers offer customization options, allowing users to add their company logo, specific markings, or other personalized features to the measuring stick.
Accuracy
Measuring sticks are designed to provide reasonably accurate readings. Still, it’s important to note that the precision may vary depending on the quality of the stick and the interval between markings.
Durability
Wooden measuring sticks are generally durable and can withstand regular use if properly maintained. However, they may be susceptible to warping or damage if exposed to moisture or harsh conditions.
Compatibility
Wooden measuring sticks are suitable for wooden fuel tanks and other non-corrosive liquid storage systems. They may not be appropriate for measuring corrosive or hazardous substances.
Cost-Effectiveness
Wooden measuring sticks are typically more affordable compared to electronic or metal alternatives. They provide a cost-effective solution for measuring fuel levels, especially in rural or economically constrained areas.
Maintenance
Wooden measuring sticks require minimal maintenance. However, periodic inspection for damage, such as cracks or splintering, is essential to ensure accurate readings and prevent safety hazards.
Environmental Considerations
Wooden measuring sticks are often favored for their eco-friendly nature. Wood is a renewable resource, and wooden sticks can be a sustainable choice compared to non-biodegradable alternatives.
These features collectively contribute to the functionality and reliability of wooden fuel tank measuring sticks, allowing for accurate measurement of fuel levels in wooden storage tanks.
While wooden fuel tank measuring sticks may be less prevalent in industrial or commercial settings today. They retain a unique charm and practicality in specific contexts.
Types Of Wooden Fuel Tank Measuring Stick!
Various wooden fuel tank measuring sticks are available, each designed for specific purposes and tank configurations. Some common types include:
Standard Wooden Fuel Tank Measuring Stick
This is the most basic and widely used type of measuring stick. It typically consists of a long, straight wooden rod with evenly spaced markings or notches. The markings indicate volume levels, allowing for accurate measurement of fuel or liquid levels in the tank.
Folding Wooden Fuel Tank Measuring Stick
This measuring stick is designed to be collapsible or foldable for easy storage and transportation. It consists of multiple sections that can be extended or folded as needed. Folding measuring sticks are convenient when a long stick is required, but storage space is limited.
Articulated Wooden Fuel Tank Measuring Stick
An articulated measuring stick is composed of multiple hinged sections, allowing it to bend and conform to the shape of a non-linear or irregularly shaped tank. This stick type is proper when measuring liquid levels in tanks with unusual contours or compartments.
Tapered Wooden Fuel Tank Measuring Stick
A tapered stick is wider at one end and gradually narrows towards the other. It helps measure the volume of liquid in tanks with a conical or sloping shape. The taper allows for more accurate readings when the tank’s liquid level is lower or higher.
Dual-Sided Wooden Fuel Tank Measuring Stick
Some measuring sticks have markings on both sides of the rod, allowing for measurements in different volume units. For example, one side may have markings in gallons, while the other side has markings in liters or barrels.
Customized Wooden Fuel Tank Measuring Stick
Customized measuring sticks may be required in certain situations to accommodate specific tank dimensions, unique markings, or special measurement requirements. These sticks are often tailor-made to suit the user’s or industry’s needs.
What is the Accuracy Difference? Wooden Dip Stick vs. Automatic Tank Gauge
Wooden Stick
A worker manually inserts the Wooden Stick into the tank as a measuring instrument. Along its run, the Dip Stick has inscriptions that indicate how much fuel is left in the tank based on where the oil pigment stops. The process of measuring oil in a car is similar to this.
Despite this, most cars only require 3.5 liters of oil. Tanks for industry-sized fuel can hold up to 50000 liters, but Dip Sticks usually only indicate volume in increments of 200 – 500 liters, making it hard to get accurate readings and leaving several liters of fuel unaccounted for.
Water could also contribute to the total volume of the tank if present, which is not included in this method.
ATG
ATGs are electric probes installed inside each tank. In order to monitor the tank’s contents, the ATG uses a tool known as a float. Water volume is monitored separately by the ATG, ensuring even greater reliability. In the tank, these floats determine the height of the fuel and water. Temperatures in the tank are measured by separate sensors. By sending this information to the ATG console, it is possible to determine the amount of fuel or water inside each tank. Multiple site-specific parameters influence the accuracy of the ATG’s volume calculation, making it a highly accurate method:
- The capacity of the tank (volume) and its internal diameter
- Tanks with siphoned (manifolded) air
- A tank’s pitch or tilt
- Compensate for temperature
- Offset of the robe from the tank’s axial and radial centers
- The name, address, and phone number of the site
- With all of these factors taken into account, the ATG can provide a more accurate estimation of the volume of fuel and water to the nearest millilitre or litre.
Which one is More Safe? Wooden Dip Stick vs. Automatic Tank Gauge
Dip Stick
Dip Sticks are extremely safe to use as long as they are manually inserted by the operator. However, there are several serious safety concerns associated with the use of Dip Sticks. As a result of the fuel tanks producing hydrocarbon vapours, the operator is directly exposed to highly toxic gases. It is extremely hazardous to check tank levels in the dark. Many operators check tank levels at night – this leaves more room for error. In many cases, Dip Stick access points expose operators to oncoming vehicles, and they cannot be seen by drivers when crouching down.
ATG
ATG sends tank readings to a controller, which can access the information remotely. As the tank cannot be accessed by an operator, exposure to the gas is not a problem. Additionally, the controller has an intrinsically safe barrier to prevent static electricity from causing damage.
Which one is More Convenient? Wooden Dip Stick vs. Automatic Tank Gauge
Dip Stick
A correct dip of a tank can take up to 30 minutes per day if it is done manually. Moreover, it is common practice to conduct weekly water paste tests per tank, which can take up to 30 minutes per week when done correctly. In addition, this estimate doesn’t include the frequency of having to redo the process if done incorrectly. Operators can be misled by dip sticks that do not have clear volume indicators, contributing to the difficulty.
In order to get an accurate reading, many operators conduct their readings at night because of the danger and length of the process.
ATG
In addition to being safely located inside the office, the ATG console can also be accessed remotely to allow all users easy access to information at any time.
Which one is More Costly? Wooden Dip Stick vs. Automatic Tank Gauge
Dip Stick
For an annual fuel level check and water paste test, the total cost would be over $3000 per year if you used a Dip Stick every day for a year. You run the risk of not even getting an accurate reading at that price, not taking into account water levels, and putting operators at risk.
ATG
On the surface, an ATG seems like the more expensive option, which many people are wary of. A typical site with five tanks would look like this:
- It costs $10,500 to purchase the equipment
- The cost of installation is $2,850
- It is, however, necessary to conduct ongoing maintenance
- An annual fee of $0 is charged.
Pros & Cons Of Wooden Fuel Tank Measuring Stick
Pros of a wooden fuel tank measuring stick
- Portability for easy transportation.
- Efficient storage in limited space.
- Lightweight for ease of handling.
- Potential durability with proper materials and coatings.
Cons of a wooden fuel tank measuring stick
- Limited reach for measuring tall or deep tanks.
- Reduced precision due to fewer markings.
- Compatibility limitations for specific applications.
Final Thought
Finally, a wooden fuel tank measuring stick is a practical solution for portable fuel measurement needs. It’s portability and efficient storage make it convenient for transportation and use in areas with limited space. The lightweight design ensures ease of handling, reducing strain on the user during measurements.
Proper material selection and protective coatings allow the stick to be durable and withstand regular use.
However, it’s essential to consider the stick’s limitations, such as reduced reach for tall or deep tanks, potentially leading to imprecise measurements.
FAQs
How does one use a stick to gauge the quantity of gas in a tank?
Slowly move the stick to the bottom of the tank. Let the stick touch the base softly, then quickly pull it back up. Read the amount of fuel shown by the “wet” mark on the stick to the nearest inch mark. If you use fuel-finding paste, the readings on your stick will be more exact.
How do you know how much fuel is in a tank?
Every vehicle has a fuel level sensor (FLS) to show how much fuel is left. The ultrasonic, capacitive, resistive film, and discrete resistor technologies assess fuel level. Most of the time, resistive gauges are used for this purpose.
What is a dipstick for the petrol tank?
The Dip Stick is a long-measure tool that a worker puts by hand into the tank. Along its length, the Dip Stick has volume markings. The amount of fuel left in the tank can be seen by where the oil color stops along the volume markings.
How do you know how much oil is in the engine?
An electronic dipstick shows low or high oil levels in an internal combustion engine sump. The electrical dipstick doesn’t need to be taken out like most dipsticks, which use a wet line on the stick to tell how full the tank is.
How does the ullage stick work?
A rigid piece of wood or another material generally graduated in volume units, is used to measure the amount of liquid in small tanks calibrated in terms of ullage.