Why is Periodic Internal Inspection of Fuel Storage Tanks Required ?
- Internal inspection will ensure the safety and integrity of storage tanks.
- Helps to prevent dangerous fuel leaks and hazards
- To determine bottom plate condition for corrosion and leaks
- Data of thickness assessments to arrive at corrosion rates by thickness testing.
- Identify and evaluate tank bottom in-service settlement.
- To check the condition of roof drain assemblies.
- Ensure health of roof supporting structures.
- Prevent Costly repairs and tank replacements
- Periodically checking the status of your tank can make it last longer.
How to Conduct Fuel Tank Inspections for white oil tanks:
- Fuel Sample Inspection: Fuel sampling is to be done periodically, bottom sample from the tank should be drawn and analyzed. Check for rust particles, water, changes in fuel quality which would hint at rise in acidity, change in color. Since water is heavier than Fuel, it will sink to the bottom of the tank and can result in rust and other corrosion. Presence of water leads to increased microbial growth.
- Leakage Testing: Leak testing will ensure the tank is not leaking into the ground contaminating the environment.
- Thickness Testing: Testing is done to ascertain thickness of shell and end plates to determine integrity of the tank.
- Visual inspection is done for general corrosion/ pitting/deterioration on internal surfaces tank.