Storage tanks are essential industrial containers used for storing liquids, gases, and solids in various industries, including chemical processing, petroleum, food and beverage, water treatment, and pharmaceuticals. These tanks are designed to safely store raw materials, intermediate products, and finished goods while preventing contamination and environmental hazards. Storage tanks vary in size, shape, and material depending on the type of substance being stored and the industry requirements. There are several types of storage tanks, including fixed roof tanks, which are commonly used for non-volatile liquids and provide protection against environmental factors. Floating roof tanks are designed for volatile liquids like petroleum and reduce vapor loss by adjusting to the liquid level. Pressurized storage tanks are used for storing gases and volatile chemicals under high pressure, ensuring safety and controlled release. Underground storage tanks (USTs) are buried below ground to store fuels and hazardous chemicals, minimizing environmental impact and space constraints. Bolted and welded steel tanks are used for large-volume liquid storage, providing durability and structural integrity. Plastic and fiberglass storage tanks are lightweight and corrosion-resistant, making them ideal for water and chemical storage.
OIL STORAGE TANKS | |
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Stores oil for processing, transportation, or use. They can be above ground or underground. | |
Purpose |
• Crude oil Collects crude oil from production fields and holds it until it's refined or transported • Refined oil Stores refined oil products like diesel, gasoline, and kerosene • Petrochemical feedstock Stores petrochemical feedstock to make products like plastics, paints, and pharmaceuticals • Heating Stores oil to heat water and spaces in industrial, commercial, and residential buildings |
Design |
• Oil storage tanks can be made from carbon steel, stainless
steel, reinforced concrete, or industrial plastic • They can be carved into impermeable rock deposits • They can have dome roofs made of aluminium |
Features |
• Vapor vent Also known as a breather valve, this prevents pressure buildup when filling and vacuum when emptying • Relief valve Relieves excess pressure • Inert gas blanket Displaces air that could mix with vapours to create an explosive or flammable mixture • Drain Removes water that separates from the oil and empties the tank for cleaning |
Safety | • Oil storage tanks have fire protection and an earth connection to prevent static electricity buildup |
OIL STORAGE TANKS - SPECIFICATIONS | |
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Specifications |
• Function: To store large quantities of crude oil or refined petroleum products like gasoline, diesel, kerosene, etc. • Design: Usually cylindrical in shape with a welded steel construction, adhering to industry standards like API 650 for safety and durability. • Roof types: Can include fixed roofs for high flashpoint liquids or floating roofs to minimize vapor loss for low flashpoint liquids. • Capacity: Varies depending on application, ranging from small to very large storage volumes. |