Horizontal Storage Tank Maintenance: Safety & Longevity Guide

The foundation of tank integrity lies in meticulous daily observation. Operators must prioritize the inspection of weld seams—areas prone to stress concentration—for any signs of corrosion, deformation, or leakage. Concurrently, verifying the accuracy of pressure gauges and level indicators is essential. These routine checks serve as the critical early-warning system to detect potential hazards before they escalate.

• Sealing Integrity: Leak testing of all connection points, including inlet/outlet valves, flanges, and manholes.
• Safety Apparatus Calibration: Functional verification and mandatory certification of pressure vacuum relief valves (PVRVs) and safety valves.
• Internal Assessment: Scheduled internal cleanings to remove sediments and impurities. This allows for a thorough evaluation of internal wall corrosion and precise ultrasonic thickness measurement (UTM) to assess structural health.
• Proactive Coating Repair: Timely restoration of anti-corrosion linings based on inspection findings is the most effective strategy to resist environmental degradation.

• Process Isolation: Ensuring all lines are blinded or disconnected.
• Purging & Ventilation: Thorough cleaning and displacement of hazardous vapors.
• Atmospheric Testing: Utilizing certified gas detectors to confirm air quality.
• Work Permits & Supervision: Operations must be conducted under a valid permit with dedicated standby personnel and emergency rescue equipment.

By integrating constant daily vigilance with specialized periodic maintenance and stringent safety compliance, enterprises can significantly extend the service life of storage tanks while ensuring a zero-incident environment.