Why is it important to maintain certain temperatures for No. 6 fuel oil in storage?

Maintaining certain temperatures for No. 6 fuel oil in storage is primarily important to ensure flowability. No. 6 fuel oil, which is a heavy distillate, can become viscous or even solidify if not kept at appropriate temperatures. This viscosity impacts the oil's ability to flow through pipes and pumps, leading to operational difficulties when attempting to transfer or use the oil for combustion.

When the temperature is kept within a specified range, the oil remains fluid, which facilitates pumping and reduces the risk of blockages in the fuel supply system. This is critical for ensuring consistent fuel delivery to burners, maintaining efficiency and performance during combustion. Thus, the management of temperature in storage directly affects the effectiveness of the fuel oil in operational contexts.