Better inspection data means better tank management

Stuart Kenny from Eddyfi explains the benefits of magnetic flux leakage systems for tank floor inspections Aboveground storage tanks are subject to obligatory and periodic inspection routines. Due to the harsh operating environments and the catastrophic impact of failure, storage facilities are governed by regulatory practices to ensure the assets are fit for service. This is a well-established integrity management consideration, and many non-destructive testing (NDT) service companies around the world have adopted similar methodologies for this type of inspection. There are numerous potential damage mechanisms associated with the in-service operation of tank storage, and each risk of failure requires careful management and routine inspection. Underfloor corrosion is specifically related to the soil interface underneath the tank floor. Regarded as one of the most significant threats in tank storage, floor corrosion is often identified as a risk during integrity management programmes. Inspection of this potential defect will regularly be included within the written scheme of examination/inspection.   MAGNETIC FLUX LEAKAGE Given the large service area of a tank floor, the...