Bulk fuel tank testing and its importance
Proper upkeep and maintenance of the above-ground fuel storage tank go a long way in ensuring the equipment is safe, and the facility is running optimally. Frequent water tank inspection services and API tank inspection also allow one to determine the integrity of the tank and measure the condition of the stored product. Periodic tank inspections can also reduce the risk of tank failure and leakage and ensure the system is running on its feet. Moreover, tank leakage and fuel spills clean-ups are expensive as compared to tank inspection.
If you maintain or operate above-ground fuel tanks, you must prepare a plan and schedule for tank inspection. How frequently you should conduct tank test and examination depends on the nature of the produce, the history of the tank-in-service, the rate of corrosion, the fuel tank’s location, etc.
In this blog, we are going to discuss how storage tank maintenance is carried out. There are two methods for fuel tank inspections.
#1 Fuel Sample Test:
When conducting bulk fuel storage tanks, API inspection services professionals look for water in the tank. While a small amount of water doesn’t harm the tank or its content, over time, water can damage the motor or cause corrosion.
Since fuel is a biodegradable material, the presence of water can result in the growth of sludge or microbial contamination. When dealing with big machinery, sudden power downtown can affect the working and cause massive loss of money and time.
If the water in the fuel tank goes undetected for a long time, it can contaminate the fuel and result in serious malfunctioning in the engine. Whether you use fuel tanks for construction, manufacturing, or transportation purposes, it’s essential to invest in reliable tank inspection services.
#2. Fuel tank integrity test:
Another test carried by tank inspectors is the integrity fuel tank storage test. The test comprises of various visual inspections. Additionally, the test requirements often vary on the size of the tanks. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, the SPCC rule requires the tank owners to test the tanks and storage containers’ integrity regularly.
One should also carry out tank inspection whenever there is any modification to the tank’s structure or its material.
Besides this, external inspections are also required to check the tank’s condition and determine any deterioration to its structure. Through the external review, one can look for signs of leakage, dents, corrosion, or discharge on the tank’s surface. The visual inspection also includes the foundation and support structure of the tank.
How to avoid costly above ground storage tank inspection?
Having a proper plan and schedule for tank testing is crucial to ensure an appropriate working of the tank and fuel system. Timely tests and inspections also allow one to ensure no leakage of the fuel and contamination of any kind.
With a regular testing plan in place, you can catch any problem in the tank or its structure before it escalates into any significant issue.