Importance of chemical storage tanks & how to maintain them?

The bulk storage of chemicals is a risky affair and is one of the reasons why the industry has strict rules in place. Chemical tanks are storage vessels for chemicals available in several shapes, sizes, and colors. When you begin planning to install a chemical storage tank system, it is vital that you consider the chemical first. Each chemical has its own requirement. Chemical tanks need to be properly planned, installed, and maintained to prevent any hazards.

You might think if a tank can store water, it is capable of storing the chemical too but that’s not the case. While the water tank may be able to store a chemical for a certain amount of time, it is not designed specifically for the chemical leading to degrading the tank and causing leaks and also other dangerous situations. There are several kinds of products stored bringing along a range of commitments and responsibilities. For chemical storage tanks, loss on the tank or system failure can lead to human or environmental health hazards, liabilities, financial losses, and impact on the future viability of the business.

Factors to Keep in Mind While Installing a Chemical Tank:-

• Safety, Health, and Environment Regulations
• Quality
• Product requirements and registration
• Construction and maintenance
• Type of chemical to be stored and the material suitable for the same

How to Maintain Chemical Tanks?

When storing chemicals, it’s important to conduct regular inspections by following the best practices and having knowledge of the industry standards. Here are a few tips to maintain the chemical tanks:

• A periodic visual examination by experts is the first and foremost step in maintaining the chemical storage tank. These regular surveys and investigations focus on any seepage or leakage, tank settling, bulging, or excessive corrosion.
• Routine inspections after the tank is washed and drained are a must. This can identify components that have shifted or any localized pitting which may not be visible from external inspection. The exact frequency is best determined by the damaging nature of the fluid, including the race components and past history of similar equipment.
• Sufficient venting for pressure and vacuum is also essential in all chemical storage tanks. Check the vents, and pipes, and make sure they are functioning properly.
• All the storage tank fittings, flexible connection pipes, and coverings must be inspected carefully to detect any signs of corrosion, deterioration, and leaks. In case of any defect, it must be replaced immediately.

Don’t Take Chemical Tanks for Granted

Chemical tanks can and do hold huge inventories of a wide variety of materials and finished products safely for decades. So make sure the tanks are properly designed, adhere to effective inspections, and undergo basic maintenance.
To learn more about tank inspections, talk to a field service expert in Sheetal Tanks today.