PETROL PUMPS.

Manawatu Herald, Volume XLVIII, Issue 3034, 11 May 1926, Page 4

PETROL PUMPS.

, » PROTECTING THE MOTORIST.

In view of the rapid extension of the bulk distribution of jjetrol the Weights and Measures Act is being invoked for the protection ol; motorists. Under amendments to the act in 1922, petrol pumps are brought within its jurisdiction, and assurance is given that the numerous pumps being installed are accurate. Unfortunately it is not the province of the Weights and MeasOftice to supervise the quality of the petrol. Certain types of pumps cannot be introduced into New Zealand as they fail to meet requirements, Types which are approved are stamped and certificates are issued for individual pumps. The pumps in use in Auckland are adjusted by an inspector and sealed with a lead disc. A dishonest garage proprietor would have to tamper with the seal to upset the adjustment. The maximum permissible error is about one tablespoonful per gallon. In Auckland lubricating oil pumps are also sealed and an apparatus for delivering heavy grease by the pound is also within the Act.

In both blind and visible pumps the petrol is measured automatically irrcspectivt of the skill of the operator. The visible feature satisfies the purchaser, and is really not a guide to the man in charge of the pump since the filling of the glass chamber cannot be interrupted by him. To protect a garage proprietor against a dishonest employee who might give a friend over-measure, pumps are constructed so as to prevent augmentation of the supply once the measured quantity begins to flow into the tank of the car. On the other hand, petrol cannot be allowed to flow back into the source once the desired quantity is measured off. The protection of the garage owner is a matter which is now under consideration in Auckland. The Weights and Measures authorities are anxious to ensure that correct delivery will be given from the motor tank waggons. When 400 or 500 gallons are being supplied, an error becomes a serious matter. It has been suggested that the oil companies and the garage owners should agree to use calibrated dipsticks. This is a somewhat crude method of measuring, and before it is adopted it is probable that experiments will be made with flowmeters. Less than one per cent, error is claimed for some types of flow-meter. —Auckland Herald.