subject: How To Select A Well Designed And Constructed Above Ground Fuel Tank [print this page] For agriculture and industrial businesses where space is not a limiting factor, an above ground fuel tank is traditionally used for its initial cost, installation and maintenance benefits. In comparison to an underground fuel tank, this type of tank eliminates the risks of undetected corrosion, rust and leakage. An above ground fuel tank provides easy access, inspection, filling and dispensing with little risk of contaminating the environment.
There are many fuel tank suppliers that offer this type of fuel tank. With the various choices available, how would you know if the above ground fuel tank you are selecting is of the highest quality? In this article, we provide some tips on how to select a well constructed and structurally sound above ground fuel tank.
The fuel tank must be constructed to meet Australian standards
Make sure that the above ground fuel tank is designed and constructed according to the Australian Standard for Tanks for Flammable and Combustible Liquids or AS 1692. According to this standard, the tank must have a vent, a means to measure the liquid level, a fill point and product identification. Before purchasing an above ground fuel tank, check that it has all these specifications. The tank must have all these specifications for your safety and ease of management of the tank.
Check for signs of leak or deformations
The fuel tank must be durable and suitable to be filled with petroleum products. Check for any signs of leakage or deformations such as cracks or dents in the tank body. Any deformation in the tank will affect its centre of gravity and introduce stress points where corrosion can quickly occur. Corrosion can eventually lead to the leakage of the fuel, which can then result to health and environmental hazards. All fittings or attachments of the tank such as pumps and hoses must also be in excellent condition and free from leaks.
Check for signs of corrosion
The above ground fuel tank should have an excellent paint coating to protect it from corrosion. Corrosion can affect the integrity of the tank and impact its reliability. There is very little chance that a brand new fuel tank will already show signs of corrosion, but if you have been using your tank for a period of time it would be wise to regularly check for signs of corrosion.
Areas usually at risk of corrosion includes the top of the tank especially in vertically mounted cylindrical tanks, underside of tanks, fill point including outlet and drain plug, welded seams and joints between the tank and structure supporting it.
If you observe signs of corrosion accompanied with pitting reaching a third of the steel thickness, you should have your above ground fuel tank repaired.
Include a tank signage
Petroleum products are classified as dangerous goods so fuel tanks storing them should have appropriate signage and product identification. Also include No Smoking warnings. When you have purchased your above ground fuel tank include these tank labels and signage.
Some final words
While an above ground fuel tank may be considered as the safer alternative to underground fuel tanks, it still has its risks if the fuel tank is poorly constructed or not properly maintained. To find fuel tanks constructed to Australian standards, consult with a trusted fuel tank supplier as they can provide you with the most appropriate fuel tank for your requirements.
