What Goes into Composite Tank Repair for Industrial Tanks
Industrial tanks are essential components of many industrial processes, such as chemical production and storage, wastewater treatment, and petroleum refineries. Maintaining tanks is important to keep them operational, safeguard the environment, and ensure the safety of workers. However, even with regular maintenance, industrial tanks are prone to damage and degradation over time. Repairing damaged tanks is necessary to ensure that the tanks continue operating properly and safely. One of the commonly used repair methods for industrial tanks is composite tank repair. In this blog post, we will discuss what goes into composite tank repair for industrial tanks.
What is Composite Tank Repair?
Composite tank repair is a method of repairing damaged industrial tanks that use composite materials to provide strength, durability, and resistance to environmental factors. A composite material refers to a combination of different materials, which results in a material that is stronger and lighter than the original materials.
Composite tank repair involves the application of a composite material to the damaged area or areas of the tank, thus reinforcing and protecting the original structure. Composite materials used in tank repair usually consist of a mixture of resin and reinforcement, such as fiberglass or carbon fiber.
The Composite Tank Repair Process
Composite tank repair typically involves several steps, which may vary depending on the extent and severity of the damage. Here are some of the standard steps involved in the composite tank repair process:
Inspection and Assessment
The first step in composite tank repair is the inspection and assessment of the damaged area. The inspection should identify the type, size, and extent of the damage. The assessment will determine the best repair method, material, and approach for repairing the damage.
Surface Preparation
The success of composite repair will depend on the adequate preparation of the damaged area and the surrounding surfaces. Preparing the surface involves cleaning and removing any loose materials, contaminants, or debris that may interfere with the bonding and adhesion of the composite material. This step may include abrasive blasting, sanding, or solvent cleaning.
Application of Composite Material
After the surface preparation, the next step is the application of the composite material. The damaged area is covered with the composite material using a brush, roller, or spray. The composite material is evenly distributed to ensure adequate coverage and adhesion. The composite resin cures, and the reinforcement materials (fiberglass or carbon fiber) hardens, bonding the composite material to the original structure.
Curing and Finishing
After the application of the composite material, the repair area is allowed to cure according to the manufacturer’s instructions. The curing process involves the hardening of the composite material, which may take several hours or days, depending on the material and the environmental conditions. After curing, the area is inspected to ensure its adherence, strength, and durability. Any finishing work, such as sanding or polishing, is performed to match the repaired area to the surrounding surface.
Testing and Quality Control
Composite tank repair should be tested to ensure it meets the required standards of quality and safety. The testing may involve non-destructive and destructive testing methods, such as ultrasonic testing and pressure testing. Quality control measures should also be implemented throughout the repair process to ensure the integrity of the repair.
Benefits of Composite Tank Repair
There are several advantages to using composite tank repair over traditional repair methods, such as welding or patching.
Durability – Composite materials can provide durability and resistance to corrosion, wear, and weathering. They can also provide impact resistance, making them suitable for high-stress applications.
Cost-Effective – Composite tank repair is generally more cost-effective than traditional repair methods. The materials are lightweight and easy to handle, which reduces labor costs associated with transporting and installing heavy steel components.
Versatile – Composite tank repair can be used to repair a wide range of damage types, sizes, and locations, including curved or compressed surfaces, which may be difficult or impossible to repair with traditional methods.
Longevity – Properly installed composite repairs can have a long life expectancy, often lasting several decades with proper maintenance.
Conclusion
Composite tank repair is an effective method for repairing industrial tanks that have sustained damage. The process involves applying an adhesive composite material to the damaged area, providing strength and durability while protecting the original structure. The repair process involves several steps, including surface preparation, application of the composite material, curing, finishing, and testing. Composite tank repair offers several advantages over traditional repair methods, such as durability, cost-effectiveness, versatility, and longevity. If you have a damaged industrial tank, composite tank repair may be a suitable and efficient repair option to ensure the continued safety and operation of your tanks.
Are your industrial tanks in need of repair? Let us help! Contact us today to learn more about what we can do for you!