Above ground storage tanks are vital for various industries, but improper maintenance can lead to significant environmental hazards, including leaks and spills. Regular inspections are essential to prevent such incidents and ensure compliance with safety regulations.
The American Petroleum Institute (API) sets stringent standards, including API 650 and API 653, to guide the inspection and maintenance of these tanks. SGS offers expert solutions to ensure the integrity of aboveground tanks, protecting the environment and enhancing operational safety.
What are the essential inspection requirements for environmental protection?
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Routine in-service inspections: basic checks from the ground that follow standard operating procedures (SOPs) to identify potential issues early
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External inspections: required at five years intervals, these encompass settlement checks, ultrasonic thickness (UT) measurements, tank tilt assessments and visual inspections
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Shell UT inspections: if corrosion rates are unknown, these inspections should occur every five years. Qualified technicians assess shell thickness, and authorized inspectors review the result
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Internal inspections: these are conducted every ten years unless more frequent assessments are warranted. They involve emptying the tank for a thorough evaluation by an authorized inspector to ensure hidden issues are identified
Advanced inspection technologies for environmental safety
To ensure the integrity of above ground storage tanks, we use innovative technologies:
Magnetic flux leakage (MFL): This non-intrusive method is used to detect corrosion in steel tank plates without the need for direct access to the tank's underside. MFL efficiently maps topside and underside corrosion. It offers offering several advantages:
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Cost-effective and accurate leak detection without emptying the tank
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Rapid inspections that reduce downtime for operations
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Detailed defect detection that aids preventive maintenance and enhances overall safety
Phased array ultrasonic testing (PAUT): A versatile technology that produces high resolution images of internal structures, allowing for precise detection of defects. Key benefits include:
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High resolution and accuracy for reliable safety assessments
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Adaptability to various materials and geometries
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Immediate results that facilitate quick decision making during inspections.
Tank survey and calibration: The industry standard method for verifying the integrity of your tank assets. We offer:
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Laser/lidar scanning for tilt, settlement and out of round
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Fast and efficient service, which can be performed externally or internally
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Immediate results to facilitate quick decision-making
We are dedicated to protecting the environment by ensuring the integrity of above ground storage tanks through advanced inspection techniques and industry best practices that minimize risk, help with preventive maintenance and ensure compliance with safety regulations. Our commitment to quality and innovation enables us to perform thorough, efficient inspections, safeguarding operational integrity and protecting the environment.
For further information, please contact:
Rick Baek
Industries & Environment
Business Manager - Industrial Inspections, Supply Chain & Material Testing
t: +61 1300 781 744
About SGS
We are SGS – the world’s leading testing, inspection and certification company. We are recognized as the global benchmark for sustainability, quality and integrity. Our 99,600 employees operate a network of 2,600 offices and laboratories around the world.
