Techniques for storage tank inspection

The demand for integrity assessment of oil storage tanks is increasing. Leaks of these tanks should be prevented. Early detection of bad spots as potential leak locations is preferred. This is enhanced by concern for the environment. The call for proper inspection techniques is amplified by the fact that the world tank park is aging. Several major spill leaks have already occurred. Moreover, legislation to prove tank integrity on regular basis begins to emerge. In some countries one has to pay penalties proportional to the estimated ecological damage. This paper describes three economically attractive techniques for tank inspection providing: easy thickness gaging of the tank wall; detection of local corrosion of the tank floor; and early leakage warning.