Methods of leak detection for underground storage tanks

 Many businesses are opting for underground storage tanks due to the numerous environmental benefits. One advantage of using underground tanks is that the water stored in the tank is very cold, which prevents algae growth. Tank flotation can be a major issue, causing damage to the tank as well as other tank attachments. To avoid such incidents, when installing an underground tank, one should always follow all the guidelines and procedures.

 

Many underground water tanks leaks are caused due to piping failure. Pipeline failures occur more than twice as frequently as tank failures. The pipe is affected by the field conditions as it is assembled in the field. Leaks are more likely to occur at connection points due to a large number of connections in a piping run. Because the pressure in the line forces the product through a hole in the piping and into the ground, leaks from these pipes can be extremely harmful to the environment.

 

One of the important threats posed by a leaking underground storage tank is the contamination of groundwater as it is used for drinking. The resulting contamination is usually hazardous to both human health and the environment. So whenever installing an underground water storage tank, do check the weather conditions and groundwater pattern. So if you are aware of the leak detection methods, it can help to save your money on the high cost of cleaning up large leaks and responding to claims.

 

Here are a few leak detection methods for underground storage tanks:

 

1. Automatic tank gauging system: ATG systems rely on level sensors that are permanently installed in the tank. To provide information on product level and temperature, these sensors are electronically linked to a nearby control device. The gauging system can calculate changes in product volume that may indicate a leaking tank automatically.

 

2. Vapor monitoring: To detect the presence of a leak, vapor sensors sense and measure product vapor in the soil around the tank and piping. This method necessitates the placement of carefully placed monitoring wells. It can be done regularly with manual devices or continuously with permanently installed equipment.

 

3. Groundwater monitoring: This device aids in the detection of a floating liquid product in groundwater. This method requires installation in strategic locations near the tank. To determine if the leaked product has reached groundwater, these wells can be checked manually or continuously with permanently installed equipment.

 

4. Interstitial monitoring: Secondary containment, such as a double-wall tank or double-wall piping, is required for interstitial monitoring to provide a barrier between the tank or piping system and the environment. The barrier traps the leak between the tank and the barrier, allowing it to be detected.

 

5. Manual tank gauging : Manual tank gauging is only effective for tanks with a capacity of 7000 litres or less. This method necessitates taking the tank out of service for at least 36 hours each week to measure the tank's contents. It is the manual measurement taken at the start and end of a specified quiet period (when no liquid is added or subtracted).

 

Polycon Gulf is a water tank manufacturer in the GCC with over 25 years of industry experience. They have emerged as a pioneer within the industry serving the needs of thousands of customers throughout the region.  They offer a wide range of products like road barriers, track barriers, spill containment pallet, marine floats, waste bins & trolleys, etc.