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Industrial storage tanks are the pillars of every successful plant. These assets require routine inspection and maintenance strategies to keep up with operating procedures, especially once they reach a certain age.
How long do storage tanks last?
Like any other product, ASTs and USTs have a shelf life.
How long an industrial storage tank will last depends on:
- Whether the tank is aboveground or underground
- Quality of materials and installation
- Substances contained within
- Environmental exposure
- Inspection and maintenance practices
Aboveground storage tanks have an approximate lifespan of 25 years, but they can last up to 40 years with proper maintenance. Meanwhile, underground storage tanks typically last 25 years.
Why does a storage tank’s age matter?
An industrial storage tank’s age parallels its structural integrity, functionality, and safety. Aged or aging tanks are more prone to deterioration and failure, as metals naturally corrode over time. For example, steel containers can rust because they contain iron that, when exposed to oxygen, prompts oxidation. Aluminum, although generally rust-resistant, is prone to violent corrosion in the form of metal pitting. Aging—combined with oxygen, moisture, other elements, and a tank’s contents—is a recipe for eventual corrosion.
Simply put, tanks that have served for decades are more likely to crack and leak, compromising their containment of hazardous or consumable substances. This risk can lead to environmental contamination, health issues, and regulatory violations.
Regular inspections are necessary to gauge the condition of aging tanks, as well as determine if they still meet safety standards.
How can you extend the service life of industrial storage tanks?
Protective coatings, cleaning and maintenance, and routine inspections are crucial practices for maximizing the life expectancy of industrial storage tanks.
1. Protective Coatings and Linings
Lack of protective coatings drastically reduces the lifespan of industrial tanks. Nearly all liquids, including water, can have corrosive effects on a tank’s materials. Consistent exposure to acids, organic compounds, and the elements (ultraviolet light, seawater, etc.) speeds up this process even further.
Coatings and linings form a barrier between the metal and everything it’s exposed to, protecting the tank’s material from premature corrosion and degradation.
2. Cleaning and Maintenance
Regular cleaning and maintenance are essential for keeping storage tanks in optimal condition. Removing accumulated debris, sediment, or corrosive substances from the tank’s surface can help prevent premature corrosion and ensure efficient operation. Furthermore, maintaining all mechanical components, including pipes and valves, can prevent unwanted leaks.
3. Routine Inspections
Routine inspections identify minor issues before they escalate into major problems. AMPP Certified Coating Inspectors from Industrial Inspection Group can assess the condition of each tank, revealing any hidden signs of corrosion, leaks, or structural weaknesses. By catching these issues early and implementing maintenance measures, owners can prevent further damage and prolong each tank’s shelf life.
How often to get an industrial storage tank inspected depends on its capacity and design. If you operate in the U.S. and outlying territories, please refer to these guides from the Environmental Protection Agency:
Do you really need to replace an old storage tank?
If the unit has reached retirement age and the owner disregards the importance of protective coatings, maintenance, and inspections, the straight answer is yes. Replacement makes better economic sense than frequent repairs or posing risks to the facility, environment, and personnel. Also, while a tank can last 25 years or longer, the actual need for replacement could be sooner. To determine where your assets stand, contact us for an inspection.
