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Mistakes Made During the Installation of Steel Fire Protection Tanks
Steel fire protection tanks play an important role in fire protection systems. Their proper selection, installation, and maintenance have a direct impact on the safety of the buildings and areas they protect. Unfortunately, in practice, mistakes are often made that can reduce the effectiveness of a fire tank or shorten its lifespan. Below, we present the three most common problems.
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Incorrectly Selected Capacity of the Fire Protection Tank
One of the most serious mistakes is choosing a tank with the wrong capacity. A fire protection tank that is too small may not provide enough water to effectively extinguish a fire, which poses a huge threat to the facility's safety.
The most common reasons for incorrect capacity selection:
- Incorrect water demand calculations,
- Failure to consider the building's specifics (e.g., size, type of materials stored),
- Lack of consultation with fire protection experts.
How to avoid this mistake?
Before choosing a fire protection tank, you must thoroughly analyze the requirements of the given facility and the applicable regulations. Standards, such as PN-EN 12845, specify the minimum amount of water that a fire protection tank should provide. It is also worth considering a water reserve for potential losses or a higher fire risk.
Lack of Adequate Anti-Corrosion Protection for Steel Tanks
Steel fire protection tanks are durable and robust, but without proper protection against corrosion, they can suffer damage that will affect their tightness and operational safety. Corrosion can lead to structural weakening, leaks, and in extreme cases – tank failure.
The most common causes of corrosion problems:
- Lack of anti-corrosion coatings or their improper selection
- Improper operating conditions (e.g., excessive humidity, aggressive chemical environment)
- Failure to use a sacrificial anode in underground tanks
How to avoid this mistake?
To ensure a long lifespan for the fire protection tank, high-quality anti-corrosion coatings such as galvanizing, epoxy painting, or ceramic enamels should be used. It is also important to regularly inspect the tank's condition and renew the protection if necessary.
Improper Maintenance of the Fire Protection Tank
Regular maintenance is a key element in keeping fire protection tanks in good condition. Neglecting technical inspections and a lack of systematic control can lead to serious failures that will prevent the effective use of water in the event of a fire.
The most common maintenance mistakes:
- Lack of regular technical inspections
- Unscheduled tank cleaning
- Omission of checking valves, sensors, and control systems
How to avoid this mistake?
According to regulations, steel fire protection tanks should be regularly checked for tightness, cleanliness, and the efficiency of the water supply systems. It is recommended to carry out inspections at least once a year, as well as after any major repair or prolonged downtime.
Summary
Installing a steel fire protection tank is an investment in safety. However, for the system to work flawlessly, common mistakes such as incorrect capacity selection, lack of anti-corrosion protection, and neglect of maintenance must be avoided. Regular inspection, appropriate materials, and proper planning will ensure the long and trouble-free operation of fire protection tanks.
So, if you are planning to install a fire protection tank, make sure it complies with standards and is well-protected – this is the key to effective fire protection.