As we mentioned in our last blog, the volume of fuel expands and contracts depending on the outside temperature. When the temperature rises, gas molecules move faster, causing more, forceful collisions. This increase in energy heightens the pressure, causing the fuel to take up more space in the container it is in. When there is a decrease in temperature, the molecules contract and move slower, decreasing in volume. How does this affect the fuel industry? Because of the constant change, the amount of fuel delivered is determined by the difference of net gallons and gross gallons.
How Fuel Is Measured
According to the Consumer Watchdog, “since the 1920’s, oil companies have taken into account temperature’s effect on the volume of gasoline…wholesale transactions are temperature-compensated at a standard of 60 degrees.” With this standard, we determine the amount of fuel sold by gross and net gallons delivered. Using a standard of 60 degrees, a gallon of fuel is typically not a gallon of fuel. When one of our trucks begins delivering in the morning, the volume, weight and energy content of the fuel will change as the temperature rises or falls throughout the day, especially in the summertime/wintertime. The number of gallons delivered is gross gallons, and the temperature adjusted amount is net gallons.
A Fuel Solution You Can Trust
Have a generator that requires a special fueling schedule? Need petroleum delivered to the top of a mountain? Let us help! We are committed to providing the highest level of service throughout all of California, even after regular business hours. Our mobile fueling products include clear diesel, dyed diesel, propane, unleaded gasoline, and renewable diesel. Give us a call at (800) 679-1700 or send us an email and we can customize a program that best suits you.