Key Points for Maintenance and Upkeep of Spherical Storage Tanks

Key Points for Maintenance and Upkeep of Spherical Storage Tanks

As core equipment for storing liquefied gas and high-pressure chemical media, the maintenance and upkeep of spherical storage tanks must focus on "leak prevention, corrosion prevention, and pressure maintenance". The following four key aspects should be emphasized to ensure long-term safe and stable operation of the equipment:

Daily Inspection: Real-Time Monitoring of Basic Status

Daily checks of the tank's appearance are required: inspect whether the tank wall is deformed, whether there are cracks or liquid seepage marks at the welds, and whether accessories such as safety valves and pressure gauges are within their calibration validity period and display normal readings. Pay attention to the sealing system: use leak detectors to check for medium leakage at double-sealed flanges, and verify that valve opening/closing status matches operational requirements to avoid abnormal pressure caused by misoperation. Additionally, clear debris around the tank to ensure unobstructed fire-fighting access and maintain the availability of emergency equipment (e.g., fire extinguishers, leak-stopping tools).

Regular Testing: In-Depth Investigation of Potential Risks

Periodic testing must be conducted in accordance with standards:

Conduct external corrosion testing every 1-2 years, promptly touch up damaged areas of the tank wall coating, and focus on checking corrosion at the connection between supports and the foundation.

Perform internal testing every 3-5 years: after emptying the medium, enter the tank (ensure safety through ventilation and gas detection), inspect the inner wall for corrosion and scaling, measure wall thickness to verify compliance with design requirements, and conduct non-destructive testing (e.g., ultrasonic testing) if necessary to identify weld defects.

Calibrate critical accessories such as safety valves and pressure transmitters annually to ensure timely pressure relief in case of overpressure.

Medium Management: Prevention of Material Damage

Strictly control the composition and purity of the stored medium; prohibit mixing of impurities or corrosive substances (e.g., moisture in liquefied gas accelerates tank wall corrosion) and regularly test medium quality. Control storage temperature and pressure according to medium characteristics to avoid over-temperature and over-pressure operation—for example, the storage temperature of liquefied petroleum gas must be below 40°C, and the spray cooling system should be activated when ambient temperature is too high. Furthermore, before long-term shutdown, empty the medium and dry the tank to prevent internal wall corrosion caused by moisture.

Emergency Maintenance: Rapid Response to Sudden Issues

If minor leakage is detected, immediately close relevant valves, isolate the tank, and use leak-stopping tools for temporary sealing. In case of sudden pressure rise, open the emergency pressure relief valve, investigate whether the cause is medium vaporization or valve failure, and activate the emergency plan to transfer the medium if necessary. After each fault handling, record the cause and disposal process, and optimize the maintenance plan accordingly to prevent recurrence of similar issues.