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Brief History of Gas Stations

  By Author June 9, 2022

While it is true that improving a service station takes effort and expense, it is also true that strategy implementation will assist you in making your mark in the industry. But how were gas stations made? Who was the pioneer of gas stations?

We have compiled a guide to help you discover the origins of gas stations. Take a look at this guide to understand the historical background of gas stations.

The Origin

The inaugural drive-in gas station debuted in Pennsylvania in 1913. Since 1905, vehicles in the United States were authorized to fill their fuel at gas stations, but these were merely roadside setups. Traditionally, drivers purchased fuel in containers from pharmacists and blacksmith stores and filled their tanks. In Pittsburgh, a historical landmark was formed with the inauguration of this gas station on St. Clair Street.

20th Century Trends

Bowser’s idea ushered in a new type of ‘gas station’ industry. Petroleum was supplied directly on the curbside, resulting in traffic bottlenecks. Even earlier gas stations depended on roadside pumps. By 1910, when there were half a million cars on American roadways, this trend became an issue. The answer was the drive-in service stations, which helped usher in a successful period for American automobiles.

In its first week, it supplied 30 gallons of fuel for twenty-seven cents per gallon, and drive-in gas stations proliferated almost as quickly as the automotive industry.  As newly formed oil businesses competed for market dominance, the 1911 breakdown of the Standard Oil cartel spurred innovation and gas station expansion.

There was originally minimal necessity for other automobile solutions, as Ford’s cars were built for uncomplicated user upkeep. Each Ford was equipped with an “oil cup” so the motorist could maintain their vehicle. Nevertheless, as GM started to overtake Ford in popularity, gas station owners started to build “greasing stations.” In 1926, Sinclair established the initial three outlets with lubricating machinery.

The drive-in gas station sector was about to face a drastic upheaval, irrespective of design or use, with the introduction of self-service outlets. When Frank Ulrich launched a self-service gas station in 1947, the greatest danger to the career progression of gas station personnel emerged.

Thanks to technological advancement, manufacturers have introduced new solutions and products to help gas station owners optimize their business.

A person filing gas in their car

You must not only select the best technology for your service station but also maintain and modify it on a constant schedule for increased output. The John W. Kennedy Company is a top-of-the-line gas pump and fuel gear distributor providing services throughout various areas in Rhode Island. We also provide on-site maintenance and logistics services 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

From petroleum storage systems to power monitoring devices, gas station casters, and pumps, we have it all. For costs and a rough estimate, contact our professionals today.

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Different Types Of Fuels That You Should Know

  By Author June 6, 2022

However, people must be aware of the different fuels available at a gas station. Take a look at this guide to learn about three common types of fuel.

Characteristics Of An Ideal Fuel

The following are the characteristics of an ideal fuel:

  1. It must have a high thermal conductivity.
  2. It must have a modest ignition level. In case the ignition rate is too moderate, the fuel will rapidly burst into flames, and if it’s too excessive, the fuel will have to be reheated for a prolonged period before it could spontaneously combust.
  3. It should burn at a slow pace and emit heat slowly.
  4. It must be reasonably priced and freely accessible. 
  5. It must produce minimal pollution when burned.

Types Of Fuels

The following are the common types of fuels available in the USA:

1. Ethanol

This substance is referred to as grain alcohol or diethyl ether. It’s a transparent, combustible fluid formed by fermenting carbohydrates in plants like maize stems and leaves, grasses, and many cactus species. Ethanol has a wide range of uses. It’s typically found in hand sanitizer and antimicrobial antiseptics with sanitizing gels. Almost all of the fuel we use nowadays incorporates up to 10% of ethyl alcohol. When ethanol is mixed with petroleum, it raises the octane level, which improves engine efficiency and torque.

2. Gasoline

Gasoline is one of the most prevalent fuel kinds for a car. It’s clear and made from the crude oil distillation process. It’s utilized in spark-ignited combustion engines and is available in multiple variants.

Let’s have a look at the benefits and drawbacks 

Advantages

  • It’s a cost-effective solution
  • Ensures optimal torque
  • It’s easily accessible
  • It’s adaptable to a variety of settings

Disadvantages

  • This fuel produces a lot of harmful fumes
  • It has lower fuel efficiency than diesel

3. Diesel

Diesel fuel is derived from crude oil, although it is processed differently from gasoline. It’s utilized in many commercial and manufacturing settings, cargo vehicles, and agrarian machinery.

Diesel fuel comes in two varieties: one for cars and the other for off-road automobiles. Diesel-powered vehicles have a higher mpg rate and drivability than gasoline-powered automobiles. Furthermore, even though diesel is pricey, many motorists believe it provides maximum satisfaction. Volkswagen is one of the most famous diesel automotive brands in the world.

A person filing fuel in their car

Gas station owners must check their seller, assess a POS device, ensure its rating, and scrutinize overall performance before finalizing their purchase. If you or anyone you know owns a gas station and needs a new canopy, the best thing they can do is contact John W. Kennedy. We also provide a comprehensive array of solutions and goods from leading suppliers of petroleum technology.

Our top-of-the-line Gilbarco equipment, POS technology, and gas station supplies may help you customize your service station to be more technologically advanced.

Head over to our web page to get in touch with us today.

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3 Reasons To Remodel Your Fuel Pump’s Canopy

  By Author May 9, 2022

There are several reasons why you may not be aware of all the roles your gasoline canopy performs. In addition to protecting consumers from the elements and providing illumination at night, it also serves as an important part of your company’s identity. Visitors will see it first as they drive past, so make sure it attracts their attention.

However, sometimes the canopy can get old and worn out and cannot do its job properly. This hurts the business, but it also drives customers away as they may mistake the fuel pump for being out of service. Let’s take a look at some reasons why getting your fuel pump’s canopy remodeled can be good for the business.

1. It Helps To Make You Visible

As we previously stated, fuel canopies are an important component of your company’s identity. Consider a few of the nation’s most well-known gas stations. Even if you can’t see their sign, you can tell who they are when you see their gasoline canopy in the distance. Upgrading your fuel pump’s canopy using eye-catching signage can help you achieve the same level of client loyalty as these huge merchants, and who wouldn’t want that?

2. It Can Improve Your Pump’s Lighting

How long was it before you changed the lights in your fuel canopy? Although you may not know it, visitors may get creepy movie vibes from it if the light is dim and flickers. Your lighting should be welcoming and warm, not cold and uninviting.

All that is needed is a simple makeover with new fixtures to accomplish this. Using the lights to draw attention to your business is an option. With a dazzling led logo and a warm and inviting appearance, you’ll be sure to get their attention.

3. It Can Help Your Customers Stay Protected In Extreme Weather Conditions

To ensure the safety of your consumers, you must ensure that your fuel canopy appears solid and secure. Consider the puddles of rain that potential clients would encounter when driving. How long will they stay at a station if the cover appears too fragile to protect more than one vehicle?

Or will they want to go to a fuel stop where the canopy doesn’t appear to be prone to buckling in the wind? It may be time for a redesign if the fuel canopy is still not upgraded with materials that match this extreme atmosphere.

best petroleum equipment suppliers

If you or someone you know owns a fuel pump and wants to get a new canopy, getting in touch with John W. Kennedy is the best course of action. We are among the leading suppliers of gas pump equipment in more than five states. We also offer a wide range of services and products from top petroleum equipment suppliers.

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How Submersible Pumping Systems Work

  By Author April 25, 2022

Submersible pumps are available in a wide variety, and each type has unique applications. To operate efficiently, the pump motor must be completely sealed, and the pumps must be completely submerged in the pumped media as they can’t work in the air. Here’s how they work.

The Working Principle

The sealed motor in a submersible pump turns an impeller – enclosed in the pump housing. As the impeller rotates, the media is pushed into the pump inlet while the impeller accelerates the fluid, forcing it into the discharge line.   

The pump pushes the media to the surface by transforming energy from rotary to kinetic and then into pressure energy. Submersible pumps are considered multi-level centrifugal pumps that operate in a vertical position.

Variations of Features

Choosing the right size of the pump and power required for completing the job is necessary. Selecting the wrong pump size means having excess horsepower and insufficient flow. It can also lead to impeller, seal, and shaft failures.     

Moreover, the user must understand the metallurgic makeup of the impeller. Whether made from hard chrome, cast iron, or stainless steel, the type of impeller affects how the pump handles the application.  

Why You Should Choose Submersible Pumps

You can select submersible pumps from a diverse variety. Since they’re submerged in fluids, submersible pumps work silently, and cavitation is never an issue. Moreover, there’s no spike in pressure when the fluid flows through the pump.

Fuel management system improves the performance of the gas station

In addition to choosing the best equipment for your gas station, you also need to stay on top of regular gas station maintenance and upgrade for enhanced productivity. We’re an unfailing, top-of-the-line gas pump and petroleum equipment supplier offering services across various locations in Rhode Island. We also offer 24/7/365 emergency service on-site repair and logistics.

Our products include everything from fuel storage solutions to power management systems, gas station swivels, and nozzles.

Get in touch with our experts at the John W. Kennedy Company or browse our products for prices and a rough estimate.

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All You Need to Know About Automated Fuel Dispensers

  By Author April 18, 2022

Years ago, attendants at a gas station used to fill up your tank, but in most states, these services have ended as self-service pumps have become more popular. Not only is this pump style convenient and easy to use, but it also allows you to enter and exit the gas station quickly.

Self-service pumps commonly have automated fuel dispensers that allow customers to pump gas and pay via card. This blog will discuss automated fuel dispensers in detail.   

Automated Fuel Dispenser: An Overview

Automated fuel dispensers let customers pump their gas and pay for it. As you swipe a credit card at a gas station featuring an AFD, an authorization request is sent to your bank. That’s when the system requires your cardholder verification information. This may either be a ZIP or PIN code.

Once the authorization is complete, you can choose your fuel grade and pump your gas without the assistance of an attendant. After the completion of the transaction, billing information will be transmitted, and your account will be billed. Customers can either pay through debit/credit card or cash.  

Features of Auto Fuel Dispensers

With automated fuel dispensers, pumps don’t require attendants anymore. AFDs ensure more customers pump gas quickly without the help of several employees. This means reduced wait time for customers and increased capacity for fuel stations.

Most AFDs include cloud-based fuel management systems that use the latest technology to give up-to-date information regarding fuel usage. The system can tell the amount of fuel sold and provide information about fuel loss.

Watch Out for Fraud

Fraud is one of the biggest concerns with automated fuel dispensers. Since AFDs don’t require an active attendant, there’s a higher risk of fraud. For instance, a customer may fraudulently request a refund on their gas purchase—chargeback fraud. Based on some estimates, almost 95% of all chargebacks are fraudulent.

Cloud-based fuel management system

Gas Station and Petroleum Equipment

John W. Kennedy Company is a one-stop gas station and petroleum equipment supplier in Providence. Our vast range of products includes everything from entry fittings, power management systems, POS systems, gasoline equipment, and much more!

Get in touch with us for more information, or check out our valuable resources here.

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4 Accessories Gas Stations Must Have in Bulk

  By Author April 11, 2022

Shoppers often visit convenience stores for daily essentials. Smart gas station owners offer deals and discounts, implement marketing strategies and loyalty rewards programs to improve sales and attract locals and tourists alike.

But the secret behind the success of your store lies in what you carry to match sales trends at each location and in making sure the inventory is always stocked with why-not and must-haves.  

Gas stations significantly contribute to a country’s economy. In addition to selling fuels, they also sell different types of merchandise, from food to presents, drinks, and more. Here are some of the products that will keep your customers coming back for more.

Phone Accessories

Wall adapters, phone cases, and USB chargers will always be at the top of everyone’s needs list. Since you need your phone wherever you go, you want to keep it charged. Moreover, people often forget their phone accessories when packing for a road trip. Fortunately, you can purchase them at the next gas station.

Grocery Items

Repeat customers often purchase pantry essentials such as bread, milk, and canned goods. Condiments, dry snacks, and quick lunches also fall under this category. Once you fill the tank at your favorite gas station, you can get some weekly shopping done.  

Souvenirs

Most people look for souvenirs at gas stations. Providing shot glasses, bumper stickers, and keychains with pictures or fun slogans from your locale can significantly improve your sales. If your store is in a tourist destination, consider stocking some local crafts representing your town’s artsy side.

Non-Alcoholic Beverages

Non-alcoholic beverages can either be an occasional treat or a ritual. Bottled sodas, energy drinks, fountain drinks, and slushies are always in demand. Most people often need a mid-morning sugar fix or a jolt of sweet caffeine with candy or a bag of chips. Offering deals on these items will keep them flying off your shelves.

Get logistics services for your gas station

Equip Your Gas Station with High-Quality Fuel Control Systems, Breakaways, and Much More!

We’re a top-of-the-line gas pump and petroleum equipment supplier offering services across various locations in RI. We also provide 24/7/365 emergency on-site repair and logistics services.

Our products include everything from fuel storage solutions to fuel management systems, gas station swivels, and nozzles.

Get in touch with our experts at the John W. Kennedy Company or browse our products for prices and a rough estimate.

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What to Look for In Your Petroleum Equipment Supplier

  By Author April 4, 2022

With your gas station business expanding, you’ll need an efficient, professional petroleum equipment supplier. Moreover, a partnership with a reliable supplier will ensure your business runs smoothly. However, finding the best supplier is easier said than done. This guide will discuss the top tips that can help you find a trustworthy petroleum equipment supplier.

Identify The Goals of Your Gas Station

The first step is to determine the requirements of your gas station because you can’t look for a supplier if you don’t know what you’re aiming to achieve with them. Enlist all your realistic goals to find a supplier who can make it easier to achieve them.

Some potential objectives you can have for your gas station include improving storage techniques and fuel management, keeping better track of fuel as well as other items sold at your gas station (convenience store), or upgrading equipment to the latest standards.  

Match Your Needs with the Offered Equipment

Once you determine your goals, you can focus on particular types of products you may need. For instance, if you’re planning to improve our sales and product management, consider getting a POS system or point of sale system installed.

If your pumps have slowed down and require excessive maintenance, you may need to purchase the latest pump models that come with faster refueling speeds and warranties.

Determine the Services You Want The Supplier to Offer

A solid fuel supplier can do a lot more than just offering fuel delivery. You can have your supplier handle additional services such as oil analysis surveys, product cross-references, and fuel filtration services.

Identify the business elements you’re struggling with before you hire a supplier. These professionals can help your business in multiple ways.

Pick a Supplier Who Offers Quick Delivery

Out-of-commission trucks and other equipment for your gas station can be very costly. However, a reliable fuel supplier on your side will get you back in the game. Look for a supplier that either automatically dispatches deliveries or electronically receives tank inventory deliveries.   

Gas station

It’s important to stay on top of the gas station and petroleum equipment to make sure you get more customers.

Buy quality gas pump equipment and petroleum equipment solutions in Providence at The John W. Kennedy Company for maximum efficiency. Our team also offers onsite repair and maintenance services in addition to logistics and material handling.

Get in touch with us for more details.

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3 Ways to Ensure Customer Safety in Your Gas Station

  By Author March 22, 2022

Gas stations are often hazardous due to potential risks such as fire hazards, theft, violence, or even as simple as slipping and falling. So, as a gas station owner, you must pay attention to all these concerns, which makes it your responsibility to maintain or improve the place’s safety. The good thing about gas station safety is that you don’t have to go out of your way to work on the safety of your workplace. Here are different ways you can improve safety.

Clean Regularly with Caution Signs

Fuel stations are no strangers to oil spills which can be slippery and dangerous for your customers or even employees. Additionally, if you live in a cold area prone to snowfall or freezing temperatures, ice is also a concern. There are a few things that you can do to prevent such issues; for starters, you should have a caution sign ready to go whenever you see an oil spill so people can avoid the area until it’s cleaned. Other than that, you can also spread a mixture of fine gravel and industrial salt on your service station so it can absorb the oil.

Safety Training and Manuals

Every business should have mock fire drills so everyone knows exactly what they have to do in the case of an emergency. You should prioritize doing practice drills every other month, so your staff knows the procedure. Plus, gas stations usually have a lot of part-time workers with constant changes, so everyone new should also be up to date with them.

You can train your employees all you want, but if your customers aren’t being considerate, safety can be compromised. For starters, put up do’s and don’ts signs all over your station, which should be visible to the customers. This will act as a reminder for more customers to be more cautious about the facility.

Security Cameras

One of the best ways to improve safety is installing cameras or alarms. As mentioned earlier, gas stations are prone to robberies because there is a constant flow of cash due to constant customers.

Furthermore, gas stations are usually open late at night, so you’d get a fair share of shady or drunk customers. If you install a modern security system with cameras and a burglar alarm, you can significantly decrease your chances of being robbed. Even if you do get robbed, you’ll have enough evidence to help catch the thief with help from the police. Furthermore, invest in better lighting to make the area visible.

If you’re looking for lighting or any other essential gas station accessories, then take a look at the products we’re offering. We have pipes with double-sided entry fitting that improve its accessibility and enable better usage. You can also get other branded station equipment from us, including gas pumps, dispensers, and fuel management systems. So, contact us and place your order right away.