CASE STUDY
Crude Oil Tank Refurbishment
OVERVIEW
The internal floor area and 2m up the walls of a large diameter tank holding crude oil, required to be completely refurbished in a limited timescale during the plant shutdown. There was also a requirement for a long-term corrosion system that would last until the tank re-opened again in 10 years time. This project was carried out by Hertel.
CHALLENGE
After coming out of a long service, the tank floor was suffering from severe pitting and corrosion. Winter condition, cold weather and high humidity, combined with water ingress, added to the difficulties of this project.
SOLUTION
First coat of Epo-chem™ RA 564 solvent-free glassflake epoxy system @ 500µ DFT by airless spray. All deep pitting were filled with Ceram-chem™ RH 500 solvent-free, ceramic epoxy putty. Second coat of Epo-chem™ RA 564 solvent-free glassflake epoxy system @ 500µ by airless spray. Total DFT: 1,000µ
OUTCOME
The major technical benefits offered by utilising this system ensured that the work was on time, within budget, with no major delays to the program and no impact on other contactors working in and around the tank. Similar tanks on site will now be refurbished utilizing the Chemco solvent-free epoxy system due to its great success.
BENEFITS
• Solvent-free
• No major delays to program
• Reduced H&S and Fire Precaution
• Reduced cost of plant and equipment
• Chemco International system will protect the steel substrate in excess of 10 years
