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A fundamental principle of being more sustainable is using the assets we have for as long as possible; maximising their operational life not only means we get best value but that we invest in any replacement at the most appropriate time, preserving budgets, materials and the planet.

All Chem Resist Thermoplastic Chemical Storage Tanks come with a 20-year design life – and with regular and routine maintenance, they can last even longer. Key factors in prolonging the lifespan of your chemical storage are tank inspections.

Chemical Storage Tank Inspections

Tank inspections are important to maximise the operational life of your chemical storage process plant equipment. The frequency of the inspections required will depend on the chemicals being stored in the tanks and the materials they’re made from.

When a tank is installed on-site there should be initial measurements taken and visual external checks to ensure it is safe to use, and these checks should be continued periodically. The EEMUA (Engineering Equipment and Materials Users Association) advise to carry out inspections on a regular basis, either daily, weekly or monthly with each inspection being recorded and any findings noted to ensure any issues are recorded early giving accurate traceability.

Best practice is to also inspect the secondary containment area as regular checks ensure any early signs of leaks or damage can be rectified quickly to avoid a loss of containment incident.

Chem Resist provides a tank inspection service through an independent 3^rd party organisation ensuring all inspections are completely impartial, any issues that may be found are reported immediately and appropriately and any replacement tanks are not sold before they are really needed.

Thermoplastic Chemical Storage Tank Inspections

All Thermoplastic Chemical Storage Tanks manufactured by Chem Resist are supplied with a 20-year design life. Once a tank reaches this, it will have to undergo an ‘extension of life’ inspection. This will either determine if it is time to replace and recycle or if it is safe to continue being used.

During an inspection, the inspector will look at the internal and external areas of the tank, as well as the base, any manways plus any valves and supporting structures. The key indicators a tank will need to be replaced are, cracks or weakness in welds, shell deformation, any sloping or leaning and discolouration and damp areas around the tank. If it is deemed no longer fit for purpose, it can be removed and recycled with the thermoplastic being reused to manufacture low-pressure pipe.

A copy of the ‘EEMUA Publication 225: Above ground plastic tanks, guide to their specification, installation, commissioning, inspection, maintenance, repair and disposal’ is available from the EEMUA website.

If your storage tanks are nearing the end of their design life, or you want to upgrade your current chemical storage solutions or would like to organise a tank inspection please get in touch.