Blog
How to Extend the Life of a Used Tank – Maintenance and Regeneration
In many industries – from agriculture to chemical production and food manufacturing – tanks play a key role in storing and processing substances. Choosing a used tank can bring significant savings to a company, but it also requires proper maintenance to ensure it lasts as long as possible. A well-maintained tank is an investment for years, increasing work efficiency and reducing costs. This article outlines practical steps for maintenance and regeneration that will help maximize the lifespan of a tank.
Safe and airtight used tanks made of acid-resistant steel and more – check out our offer and contact us to help you choose the right tank for industrial, agricultural, or other uses.
Why is it important to maintain a used tank?
Maintenance is not only about keeping the tank in good technical condition – it also concerns safety and efficiency. Regular inspections and fixing minor faults can prevent more serious breakdowns that could lead to production losses and costly repairs or replacements. Moreover, a well-maintained tank has a higher resale value, which can be beneficial for the company in the future.
Assessment of Technical Condition
Before starting any maintenance, it’s important to thoroughly assess the technical condition of the tank. When purchasing a used tank, you should pay attention to several key aspects:
- Inspecting the structure: Does the tank have visible cracks, scratches, or signs of corrosion? Even small defects can worsen over time.
- Sealing: It's advisable to conduct leakage tests, especially if the tank will be used to store liquid or gas substances.
- Assessment of the tank's interior: The internal surfaces of the tank might be subject to damage from chemicals. If possible, it's a good idea to inspect the interior using specialized tools or inspection cameras.
A professional assessment by a specialist can be helpful, especially if the tank is used in demanding applications.
Regular Cleaning
Cleaning is a basic but often overlooked aspect of maintenance. Substances stored in the tank can accumulate on its walls and bottom, forming a layer that over time can lead to damage or corrosion.
- Mechanical cleaning of the interior: Residues can be removed mechanically using special brushes or washers. This should be done regularly to prevent the buildup of hard-to-remove layers.
- Chemical cleaning: For tanks that have stored chemical substances, appropriate cleaning agents may be necessary. However, it is important to ensure chemical compatibility and use materials safe for the tank’s construction.
Regular cleaning reduces the risk of damage and extends the tank’s lifespan while ensuring the safety of stored substances.
Anti-corrosion Protection
Corrosion is one of the main factors that shorten the lifespan of tanks. For metal tanks, it’s worth investing in anti-corrosion protection:
- Applying protective coatings: Special anti-corrosion coatings can be applied to protect against rust. Such a coating should be regularly checked and renewed if scratches or cracks appear.
- Galvanic anodes: For tanks used to store liquids, galvanic anodes are sometimes applied to slow down the corrosion process.
It’s also important to store tanks properly – a dry, well-ventilated space reduces the risk of corrosion, just like avoiding direct contact with aggressive substances. It’s also worth remembering that acid-resistant tanks are less prone to corrosive factors and are great for environments where strong acids are present.
Regular Seal and Joint Inspection
Sealing is crucial, especially if the tank is used to store liquid, such as fire-resistant tanks, or gas substances. Seals and joints are subject to wear and need regular inspection and replacement.
- Checking seals: Seals can age, lose elasticity, and become leaky. Regular inspection and replacement prevent leaks.
- Checking valves and joints: All connections must be sealed to avoid leaks. It's worth regularly tightening the joints and inspecting the condition of the valves.
Investment in Modernization
Sometimes small modifications can significantly extend the lifespan of a used tank. For older tank models, it’s worth considering:
- Installing new measurement systems: Modern sensors for level, temperature, or pressure can prevent unwanted situations, such as overflow or overheating of the tank.
- Additional safety systems: Older tanks can be equipped with additional emergency drainage systems, which minimize the risk of leaks in emergency situations.
- Reinforcing the structure: If the tank shows signs of structural weakening, additional reinforcements can be considered to improve its stability.
Conclusion
Proper maintenance and regeneration of a used tank can extend its lifespan and reduce the risk of costly failures. Regular cleaning, inspection of technical condition, anti-corrosion protection, and investments in modernization are key actions to implement. Taking care of a used tank not only improves its efficiency but also increases safety and durability – which in turn positively impacts savings and the stability of the company.