DIAGNOSING AND REPAIRING TANK SETTLEMENT

Lance Watson from AR Watson looks at problems, techniques and solutions When it comes to tank settlement, a closer look needs to be taken before any tank repairs or modifications are made. There are three main types of settlement: Differential settlement – settlement in different locations around the foundation creating voids under the tank bottom Even tilt – the tank leaning to one side Edge settlement – when the tank circumference is pushing into the ground or break over If settlement isn’t fixed beforehand, repairs and modifications to the tank will trap the stress in the tank from the settlement. If repairs to the foundation come later, repairs to the tank foundation can be difficult and costly but not impossible. It is easier to repair a tank foundation if the tank hasn’t had any repairs or modifications, because repairing the foundation puts the tank back into its original shape. For a contractor, it comes with years of experience working in the field. An engineer who solves tank foundation issues should be able to lay out steps in which repairs should be done to keep the tank in the best shape for working operation. Mostly, foundation issues come from...