"Green Line" TATSUNO
"Green Line" TATSUNO
TATSUNO fuel dispensing equipment has long been recognized worldwide for its high quality, accuracy, and reliability. This applies not only to fuel dispensers but also to the "Green Line" TATSUNO. In Europe, this equipment, including LPG, CNG fuel dispensers, and so-called "combi" units, has been in high demand and successfully used for many years.
We spoke with Milan Berka, Technical Director of TATSUNO EUROPE a.s., the European division of TATSUNO Corporation, about this product line.
"Modern Gas Station" Interview
Modern Gas Station: Can you tell us about the history of gas dispensers in your company?
Milan Berka: The first gas dispensers were certified and introduced into the TATSUNO EUROPE production line in 2000. These were LPG dispensers built in the popular BMR 500 housing.
From the very beginning, the European market demanded a wide range of modifications to ensure compatibility across different regions. These include technical requirements and specific external design preferences. Throughout our history, we have constantly expanded our range of fuel dispensers, including various gas models.
A key permanent feature of our gas dispensers is the unique TATSUNO flow meter, which is known for unmatched precision and operational stability worldwide.
First Installations and Market Expansion
Modern Gas Station: When were your gas dispensers first installed at operating stations?
Milan Berka: The first installation took place in 2001 at a SHELL station in the Czech Republic. Simultaneously, we delivered our first dispensers to Belarus and Ukraine.
The success of these installations marked the beginning of the "Green Line" TATSUNO expansion.
Since 2004, our gas dispensers have become a key part of the product lineup at "TATSUNO RUS"—our joint venture with Russia. They have been successfully distributed throughout Russia and the CIS.
LPG Dispenser Modifications
Modern Gas Station: Can you tell us more about the different LPG dispenser modifications?
Milan Berka: The main difference between LPG dispensers lies in the electronic meters used, which vary based on major projects in different European countries.
From the very beginning, we incorporated support for multiple electronic systems, including:
- PDE (TATSUNO's original electronics)
- Kienzle
- Numero 10
- LOGITRON
Additionally, in most cases, the electronics in our LPG dispensers are directly integrated with self-service terminals and automated fuel station systems.
Other modifications include:
- Dispenser size: Initially, LPG dispensers were 1,400 mm high, but newer models grew to 1,900 mm to align with modern fuel dispenser designs (SHARK & OCEAN).
- Display options: Customers can choose between yellow LCD displays, blue alphanumeric screens, or new black-and-white LCD displays.
- Hose return safety system: This is particularly popular in Russia, ensuring safe and efficient fuel dispensing.
Customization and Certification
Modern Gas Station: So, do you offer a full range of customization options?
Milan Berka: Absolutely! For LPG dispensers, we offer four design versions:
- BASIC
- FIN
- WAVE
- CUBE
However, it's important to highlight the strict European certification standards. Every feature and modification must undergo rigorous testing before approval.
All TATSUNO fuel dispensers comply with mandatory safety and metrology certifications. Maintaining a wide range of customization options requires continuous efforts from our engineers in certifying new options and models. This meticulous approach ensures that TATSUNO remains a trusted choice across various customer segments.
Combination Fuel Dispensers ("Combi")
Modern Gas Station: What unique features does your latest gas dispenser line include?
Milan Berka: One of our key innovations is our "Combi" fuel dispensers, which allow multiple types of fuel to be dispensed simultaneously.
TATSUNO Combi dispensers can combine:
- Gasoline + Propane
- Gasoline + Methane
- Any combination of Gasoline/CNG/LPG
A key feature is the self-service function, which includes a light signal system to indicate refueling completion.
Global Supply and Market Growth
Modern Gas Station: Are there any significant locations where this equipment is already in operation?
Milan Berka: Yes, our "Combi" dispensers are already widely used in Italy. You might be surprised to learn that they are also successfully operating in Thailand and South Korea.
CNG Fueling Stations in Europe
Modern Gas Station: What is the current status of CNG fueling stations in Europe?
Milan Berka: The demand for CNG stations in Europe has grown significantly. In some regions, methane fueling has become standard practice.
Here are some CNG station numbers by country:
- Italy – 1,200 stations
- Germany – 900 stations
- Austria – 175 stations
- Sweden – 165 stations
Our TATSUNO CNG dispensers are becoming increasingly visible across European markets.
We have successfully launched CNG fuel dispenser deliveries to Italy and initiated pilot projects in France, Bulgaria, the UK, Poland, Germany, Romania, and Slovakia.
History of CNG Fuel Dispensers
Modern Gas Station: Can you tell us about the development of your CNG fuel dispensers?
Milan Berka: The first CNG dispensers were developed in 2006 using the popular SHARK model housing.
In 2010, we introduced a more compact version—the OCEAN SMART CNG dispenser, which offers:
- 1 to 3 fuel inlets
- 1 to 4 fueling nozzles
- High-speed and increased-flow fueling options
- Various OPW nozzle configurations
In 2016, we launched a premium version—OCEAN EURO CNG.
Our approach focuses on flexibility—CNG dispensers can be equipped with mass flow meters from:
- Endress+Hauser (standard)
- Micro Motion or TATSUNO (optional upgrades)
Key Features of TATSUNO CNG Dispensers
Modern Gas Station: What makes your CNG dispensers stand out?
Milan Berka: Several key features set our CNG dispensers apart:
- Modular design for easy maintenance
- Next-generation TBELTM electronic meter, developed by TATSUNO EUROPE
- Continuous pressure monitoring for safety
- High-efficiency gas delivery using temperature compensation
TATSUNO's Entry into the Russian CNG Market
Modern Gas Station: Russia is expanding its CNG fueling station network. Is TATSUNO preparing equipment for this market?
Milan Berka: Absolutely! The Russian market is a key priority for TATSUNO EUROPE.
The "Gas as Motor Fuel" theme at AUTOCOMPLEX-2017 and the roundtable "Modern Equipment and Technologies for Gas and Multi-Fuel Stations" have generated significant interest from Russian partners and competitors alike (laughs).
Currently, in collaboration with TATSUNO RUS, we are finalizing certification for CNG dispensers in Russia. We believe that our CNG dispensers will achieve the same success in Russia as our gasoline and LPG models.
Conclusion
TATSUNO continues to innovate, delivering highly precise, reliable, and customizable fuel dispensing solutions worldwide. Our focus on advanced engineering, strict certification, and continuous improvement keeps us at the forefront of the industry.