Storage Tank Repair and Maintenance

Bolted Storage Tank Repair

For more information on our bolted tank repair services, please visit our Bolted Steel Storage Tank Repair page.

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Welded Storage Tank Repair

With the right personnel, training, and tools, storage tank repair and alteration can be done in a cost-effective, safe manner. By following the guidelines of API 653, industry standards, and customer requirements, our engineers and field crews can ensure that repairs are done properly, that the tank is leak-free, and that the tank can withstand the pressure it is designed for. Read on to learn how Phillips Tank & Structure can repair your storage tank, or contact us today.

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​Business Needs and Environmental Requirements

Business goals change over time, such as facility layout changes or storage of a new product in the tank. These changes often include:

• Nozzle hot taps

• Tank capacity increase

• Tank piping replacement

• Geodesic dome installation

• Installation of a floating roof​

 

Wear and Corrosion

Carbon steel storage tanks can rust or receive other damage during their service life, leading to leaks and environmental damage. Corrosion damage is often hidden behind insulation or the underside of steel plates. To detect the corrosion, tank inspections are required at regular intervals. Repairs like seal fabric replacement or nozzle hot taps can be done with the tank in service, however welding, grinding, and other hot work requires the tank to taken out of service and cleaned before repairs begin.

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These repairs often include:

• Foundation repair

• Bottom plate patches or replacements

• Double bottom installation

• Puddle welding of tank bottom pits

• Shell plate patches or replacements

• Roof plate patches or replacement​s

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What are the Guidelines for API 653 Storage Tank Repair?

For effective storage tank repair and modification, it is important for alterations to be completed per API 653 guidelines. A tank repair crew may remove of corroded or damaged areas, add new material, inspect the changes, and put the tank back into service. The repair work may involve cold-cutting, hot work welding, cold-curing, and application of protective sealants. Additional beams may be required for reinforcement during the repair process.

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Section 9 of tank repair code API 653 has specific requirements for repair and alteration of storage tanks.

• Removal and replacement of shell plate material

• Repair of defects in shell plate material

• Alteration of the tank shell height

• Repair of defective welds

• Repair of shell penetrations

• Addition, replacement, or alteration of shell penetrations

• Repair of the tank bottom

• Repair of the fixed roof

• Repair of the floating roof

• Repair or replacement of floating roof seals​​

• Installation of a shell nozzle hot tap

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API 653 also provides inspection requirements. This includes the inspection of welds and other components to ensure that repairs have been made properly. Non-destructive test methods such as x-ray, ultrasonic, dye-penetrant, and visual testing are used to ensure that the repaired or altered area is free from defects. Depending on the area repaired, the guidelines may also require leak tests with hydrostatic or pneumatic testing. The inspection should be done by qualified personnel, and the results of the tests should be recorded. Any defects or issue discovered must be corrected before putting the tank back into service.

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What can Phillips Tank & Structure Do For You?

Storage tank repair and alteration should be carried out by qualified personnel. Not only must the finished product meet API 653 standards, the work must be efficient and cost-effective. By contracting with Phillips Tank & Structure, you benefit from our extensive engineering and field construction experience in the bulk storage tank industry.

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To ensure a safe working environment, safety measures must be taken for personnel in or near the storage tanks. This includes the use of appropriate safety equipment and adherence to industry standard safety protocols. The personnel should be trained in the safe use of tools and equipment, and should be aware of potential hazards that may be present. The area around the tank must be secured to prevent accidental damage or injury. With proper safety training, PPE, and hazard mitigation, storage tank repair and alteration can be done in a safe manner.

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In some cases, rapid storage tank repair will be necessary if a tank develops a leak, becomes damaged, or experiences operation issues. It may be necessary to drain the tank before repair work can be completed. Our team of engineers will work with you to determine a cost-effective, high-quality solution, and our skilled field crews will repair your tank to meet strict industry standards and customer specifications, including API 653 and AWWA D100.

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PTS works with a wide variety of welded tanks, bolted tanks, and silos, including

• Fuel storage tank repair

• Industrial tank repair

• Crude oil tank repair

• Municipal water storage tank leak repair

• Fire protection water tank repair

• Asphalt tank repair

• Refinery storage tank repair

• Chemical storage tank repair

 

Let’s get to work and make sure that your storage tanks are in excellent condition. To learn more, contact us today.

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