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Ken Wilson, president of Wilson Aircraft in Aurora, Ont., a longstanding authorized Cessna Caravan sales representative, has become the first Canadian to sell SEI Industries Ltd.’s new bulk aviation transport tank (BATT). The modern, double-walled collapsible bladder tank is the first of its type, specifically designed for hauling fuel in the cargo hold of an aircraft. Made from materials compatible with temperatures as low as -45°C, the BATT allows for easier fuel transportation to remote areas of the country.
“It offers a more economical method for transporting fuel to remote sites that aren’t accessible by road,” said Wilson. “It allows mining and exploration companies to transport fuel in a more expeditious and economical manner and people can provide service to First Nations communities that are only accessible by winter roads.”
The flexible design of the BATT is a key advantage because it makes the product adaptable to the cargo holds of various aircraft types. Transport Canada approved, it is offered in two sizes that fit into the Cessna Caravan 675 (1627 L) and Cessna Grand Caravan (1800 L).
“This is a modern approved system; there are no modifications required in the airplane,” said Wilson. “You just put the tank in, fill it up, and go.”
The BATT effectively eliminates environmental waste caused by operators who abandon empty fuel drums to make room for new cargo, and fuel spills caused by handling multiple drums. Aside from the advantage of not requiring an STC for a traditional tank, the versatility and flexibility of the BATT also allows a more economical transfer of fuel because of its simple installation process.
“Because the BATT is so light and easy to handle, it requires very little downtime to turn them around, and you’re able to haul more fuel or go longer ranges,” said Robin Cnudde, SEI Industries’ Canadian sales rep. “If you’re going to install a BATT tank, even a large one, it’ll only take an hour or two to put it into the aircraft and less than that to pull it out. If you need to backhaul cargo or people, you can simply unclip the tank, roll it up, and stow it away. It allows you to handle a variety of cargo on the same trip.”
The BATT tank is Transport Canada approved with a Dangerous Goods Equivalency Certificate, authorizing operators to transport diesel or jet fuel to remote locations. Wilson Aircraft sells the larger BATT for the Grand Caravan for $20,350. For more information, visit http://www.sei-ind.com/products/bulk-aviation-transport-tank.
