Tank Linings Corrosion is a Persistent and Costly Problem

Storage tanks, both above ground and below ground, are essential components of many industries including chemical, mining and metals, food and beverage, energy, water, and wastewater. Tanks store many types of fluids for these industries and due to the natural corrosive processes of collecting and storing fluids, they are subject to leakage. That calls for quality installation and maintenance of tank linings and for tank leak repair when needed.

Tank Lining and Coating Failure and Corrosion Problems

How are Storage Tanks Compromised?

Storage tanks can be compromised due to:

• The natural deterioration effects of age.
• Rusting and cracks.
• Cold weather.
• Corrosive chemicals in the tank.

What Problems are Caused by Storage Tank Corrosion?

Corrosion is a natural consequence of time so it is persistent, and it can cause any of the following, each resulting in potential risk and substantial costs:

• Compromised tank structural integrity leading to possible tank rupture.
• Spills and leaks that can lead to environmental problems, downtime, content replacement costs, and possible human risk.
• Contamination of stored fluids.
• Possible fire and explosions in the case of petrochemicals and other explosive or hazardous liquids.

In any of these situations, it is wise to act quickly to repair tank linings to mitigate problems or to install new coatings or linings by a qualified coatings contractor Bay Area.

How to Prevent Storage Tank Corrosion

Storage tank corrosion can be prevented or controlled by the following methods:

1. Select corrosion-resistant materials during the tank’s construction at the outset of its planning and design phase. Many industries benefit from fiber-reinforced plastic (FRP) tanks which are less prone to corrosion than steel tanks, for example.
2. One of the most widely used protective approaches is to apply linings and coatings as a protective barrier. The lining shields the metal substrate from contact with air and moisture. In addition, paints, coatings, and linings may contain corrosion inhibiting compounds that counteract any chemical reactions that may contribute to corrosion.
3. Linings can be installed in a tank after any cracks, gaps and leaks are repaired to provide a solid and reliable corrosion-resistant barrier to the existing substrate.
4. Frequent removal of debris and corrosion causing contaminants that can remain in tanks, causing oxidation and degrading the tank lining and the tank itself.

Tank leak repair work should not be daunting nor overlooked to prevent problems and substantial cost. New tank linings can be installed to improve storage tank life and maintain the quality of stored fluids.

Inspect Storage Tanks Frequently to Prevent Corrosion

It is recommended that storage tanks in use be inspected once a month. Inspections will ensure that potential damage to tank or tank linings can be caught more quickly and remedial action be taken.

Storage Tank Coatings, Linings and FRP Repairs

Contact your expert coatings contractor Bay Area to ensure you have the quality tank lining that your business deserves. Call 510-232-0065 or send us a message today for more information.