External hazard effects on steel and concrete refrigerated liquefied gas tanks

The selection of a refrigerated liquefied gas (RLG) storage system concept is often based on the ability of the tank system to contain leaks from the primary containment and to limit potential effects on the environment and surrounding properties. The storage tank system and tank material selection are based on both safety and economics considerations to provide a safe storage solution for both the owner and public while being economically feasible. External hazards play a significant role in the selection of the tank containment system and materials of construction. The various external hazards which can affect a tank system and may require consideration in the facility risk assessment are listed in the industry standards covering RLG storage tank systems [Ref 1, 2]. However, the major external hazards such as external fire, external explosion and projectile impact should always be included in the facility risk assessment performed by the facility owner to determine credibility of these hazards and magnitude of external loads and effects these hazards apply to tank systems. While the storage system’s outer tank is often constructed of pre-stressed concrete to mitigate these...