An Operation And Maintenance Plan For An Underground Petroleum Tank
Posted on: 23 March 2023
An operation and maintenance plan will ensure the integrity of the underground petroleum tank that is used at your place of business. The plan should involve careful record keeping, the use of leak detection devices, and annual inspections that are performed professionally.
Records
The use of an underground petroleum tank provides access to fuel, without taking up critical space on your property. Even though the underground system isn't as easily accessible as an aboveground tank, it is still essential that the underground tank is properly monitored.
Record keeping should outline the dates when equipment was professionally serviced. Information about the average amount of fuel consumption that is incurred on a monthly basis should also be recorded.
The make and model of the tank should be written down and kept with the other records. All of the information that is recorded may be needed during leak detection assessments and professional service calls.
Leak Detection Processes
A leaking fuel tank can be hazardous to the environment. Leak detection equipment will monitor the consumption of fuel. If fuel consumption amounts fluctuate, a detection device will alert you to this fact.
Detection equipment includes electronic leak devices, line detection equipment, and mechanical leak detection equipment. The supplier of the tank that you own may sell a range of detection devices that are compatible with the tank system that you own.
Electronic leak devices are pieces of equipment that you will have direct access to. For example, a wall-mounted device will support keeping track of how much fuel is dispensed within a set timeframe.
A line detection device is designed to attach directly to the piping that is secured to the underground petroleum tank. If any fuel leaks from a pipe section, the detection equipment will alert you to this fact. A mechanical leak detection device contains a sensor that is designed to attach directly to the tank. This type of equipment can determine if the tank is not properly sealed.
If a leak is suspected, a professional inspection of the tank should be sought immediately.
Professional Inspections
Professional inspections will determine the integrity of the tank. A licensed service provider will assess the tank for damage.
An inspection will determine the quality of the petroleum. If water or contaminants have infiltrated the petroleum tank, an inspector may suggest that the tank is cleaned out. An older fuel tank that is showing signs of damage may require that the tank is swapped out for a new one.
For more information on underground petroleum tanks, contact an industrial supplier near you.
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