What is the primary function of a vent alarm on an oil tank?

The primary function of a vent alarm on an oil tank is to prevent overfilling. This safety device is designed to alert operators when the tank is reaching its maximum capacity during the filling process. By signaling that the oil tank is nearly full, the vent alarm helps to mitigate the risk of spills, which can lead to environmental contamination and financial liability.

When fuel deliveries occur, the potential for overfilling is a significant concern. If the tank is not closely monitored, the fuel can overflow, causing not only waste of valuable resources but also posing serious hazards to the surrounding environment and structures. The vent alarm is strategically placed to detect rising fuel levels and notify the operator before any overflow happens, making it an essential component for safe tank management.

While other devices might be designed to indicate low fuel levels, signal leaks, or monitor temperatures, these functions do not specifically address the critical need to prevent overfilling during refueling operations. Hence, the vent alarm is particularly focused on managing the risks associated with tank capacity and ensuring safe handling of stored fuels.