For insulated tanks, Corrosion Under Insulation is a particular problem at the lower section of?the shell.
Corrosion Under Insulation in Tanks For insulated tanks, Corrosion Under Insulation is a particular problem at the lower section of?the shell, at stiffening rings, on the roof and where there are penetrations through the insulation? weatherproofing. The rate of corrosion is dependent upon water or water vapour penetration?and its retention in the insulation. Metal/ambient temperature, corrosion inhibitors within the?insulating material, and paint coatings under insulation all influence the rate of attack. Good design, material selection, attention to detail and good standards of workmanship are?fundamental in minimising corrosion issues. The use of cellular glass closed cells are recommended?for susceptible areas that include the bottom section of the shell, at secondary wind girders, on?insulation support rings, or locations where water could pool. This is due to the low moisture? retention qualities of the ‘closed cell’. Appropriate adhesives and sealants/mastics should be?selected as the end of their functional life, which may allow water ingress between insulation and?shell, is difficult to detect. Some tank operators prefer to leave the bottom section of the shell un insulated in order to prevent?wicking up action and to allow drainage of any water having entered the insulation at higher?elevation penetration. There is some loss of heat, but a critical part of the tank is readily accessible for inspection, and corrosion degradation is removed in this location. However, the un-insulated part may be affected?by thermal stresses during periods of low ambient temperature. Insulation requirement in this location should therefore be periodically reviewed. #oil #refinery #storage #tanks #terminal #maintenance #inspection #corrosion #insulation #heat #hotprocess #thermal #safety #desing #engineering #oilgas