A common misconception is that metal products such as steel structures, tanks, or piping will last forever. While metals are inherently strong materials, they can still incur damage resulting in costly repairs and dangerous structural integrity losses. All types of metals are at risk of corrosion, and those used for storage tanks are no exception.
Over time, metal tanks can break down when liquids or moisture in their systems or outer environments cause corrosion, resulting in contaminants leaking or being displaced. Corrosion refers to “the deterioration of a metal as a result of chemical reactions between it and the surrounding environment.” Metal storage tanks are at particularly high risk for corrosion based on the types of materials they typically hold and the environments they are exposed to — two key factors that directly correlate with the form and rate of deterioration.
Understanding different types of corrosion
Depending on what tanks are storing and the environments they’re in, many different types of corrosion are possible. The most well known type of corrosion is rust or rusting — but, in fact, metal tank corrosion can occur in many other ways:
- Basic corrosion, or brown rust, is the most common type. Rust appears due to a reaction between the iron in metal and water, resulting in the rust most are familiar with. If no barrier separates the metal and water — such as a lining or paint coat — reactions will continue to occur, eventually ruining the metal.
- Localized corrosion occurs in a particular area of a structure as opposed to general corrosion. The three types include pitting, crevice, and filiform corrosion. Essentially, an area in the metal gets a small hole or pit that becomes exposed to various elements or rust gets underneath paint or in a crevice — and corrosion occurs.
- Environmental corrosion happens when certain toxins and environmental pollutants found naturally near metals tanks compound corrosion, speeding up the process.
- High temperature corrosion occurs as a result of compounds created in the process of burning fuels in engines and other machinery, which are very corrosive to metals. If your tanks are exposed to chemical processes at high temperatures, they may be at risk for this type of corrosion.
- Cracking happens when metals exposed to certain environmental conditions such as extreme cold temperatures crack.
Mitigating associated risks
Corrosion in metal tanks is a serious issue facility owners should not take lightly as damaged tanks have many potential negative outcomes. In addition to premature equipment failures at the hands of corrosion, costing time and money, corrosion can pose environmental dangers as well. Compromised tanks can leak toxic materials and contaminate ground waters or nearby habitats. Liability and cleanup of these leaks falls squarely on the shoulders of tank owners. It is much cheaper and safer to ensure your tanks do not suffer from corrosion.
One of the best ways to prevent tank corrosion is by applying a secondary tank lining to ensure tanks are sealed and resistant. Not only can this help to uphold tank integrity over time but it can also reduce the amount of necessary upkeep and maintenance. If tanks are not properly lined, they could require more frequent repainting and resealing. Several different lining options are available, depending on the types of materials you need to store and the environments your tanks will be in. Tank linings play an important role in preventing corrosion, saving you time, money, and risk over time.
The professionals at Moon Fabricating Corporation are well-versed in all corrosion prevention with our lining materials and have deep experience helping clients find the best solutions for their needs. We are also proud to work with company leaders to repair and replace their stainless steel tanks when they have worn out or have experienced corrosion. Our repair service is part of our overall dedication to service excellence.
We specialize in custom steel fabrication and corrosion resistant linings for tanks, pipes, and a huge variety of other applications. We work hard to furnish corrosion resistant lining products designed to meet your toughest applications, reducing equipment failure and shutdown costs while protecting your capital investment.