Issues with the design standards for sulfuric acid storage tanks
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There are 2 sulfuric acid storage tanks with a concentration of 93%–98% and a volume of 150 cubic meters each. They were previously designed in accordance with standard 50341 as fixed-roof storage tanks. The new version of the 50341 guidelines states that 50341-2014 does not apply to media with extremely high or high toxicity levels; meanwhile, the new standard HG20660-2017 classifies sulfuric acid as an extremely hazardous medium. Does this mean that 50341 can no longer be used? Can’t the structure of sulfuric acid storage tanks use a fixed-roof design? Please, the experts in this forum, explain it to me.
Design is carried out in accordance with GB50341; there is actually no difference in the calculations. Impose stricter requirements on material selection, welding, and non-destructive testing. Furthermore, sulfuric acid is classified as extremely hazardous, seemingly out of consideration for the occupational health of workers; its toxicity is not greater than that of ordinary chemical agents.
The design specifications can state that the design should be carried out in accordance with GB/T50341; of course, a fixed-roof structure can also be used. For sulfuric acid storage tanks, the design of the bottom plate is of particular importance, as the tank body is not placed on a solid foundation.
HG20660 -2017 applies to pressure vessels; storage tanks are not considered pressure vessels, right?
It is reasonable to set some strict requirements, but in practice, the lack of standards can lead to either excessive testing or insufficient testing, which is indeed an issue that needs to be addressed urgently.
Well, which standards are followed for the baseplate design, or is it mainly based on the designer’s experience?