For storage tanks of what size in a tank farm, are metal hoses required at the bottom outlets?
Thread Content
I’ve seen metal hoses at the bottom outlets of many storage tanks. What are the conditions for storage tanks that require such hoses?
Generally, metal hoses are used to prevent metal pipes from breaking due to uneven settlement of the equipment. However, as to what size of equipment requires metal hoses at its bottom pipe openings, this needs to be determined through discussion between structural engineers and piping specialists.
I agree with what was said above. It seems that soft hoses are usually installed in storage tanks, or at least it’s preferred to use such hoses. However, there isn’t any clear indication regarding the size of tanks for which these hoses are necessary; it probably depends on factors like the local soil conditions as well
Those equipped with automatic weighing elements, such as electronic scales installed between the support legs and the tank body, require metal hoses for the discharge pipes at the bottom of the tank. In fact, such containers require interfaces for all incoming and outgoing connections to ensure accurate weighing.
The purpose of installing metal hoses in tank areas is mainly to absorb stresses in the pipelines; especially in areas storing asphalt, paraffin oil, and similar substances, metal hoses are used in all such cases. In my opinion, this is done primarily to ensure the safety of the design, although in some cases it isn’t necessary to use such hoses at all.
Generally, metal hoses are used to prevent metal pipes from breaking due to uneven settlement of the equipment. As for what size of storage tanks require metal hoses, it mainly depends on the local geological conditions as well as the measures taken by structural engineers to address uneven settlement
This explanation makes sense; in practice, larger ones do exist, and it seems that this was taken into consideration during the design phase, especially when it comes to toxic and hazardous chemical products!
Typical petrochemical storage tanks are equipped with flexible hoses to prevent pipes from breaking due to foundation settlement. However, based on my personal experience, after half a year of monitoring settlement, if it is found that the settlement has stopped, the hoses should be replaced with rigid pipes, as hoses are indeed the weak link in the piping system and prone to problems. It’s a pain that cuts deep.
Gentlemen, are there any requirements regarding the flexible connection materials at the interfaces for different media inside storage tanks? Are there any regulations in this regard?
It depends on the amount of settlement of the storage tank.
Keep lifting it up; our company recently underwent a safety standardization audit, and deficiencies in this area were identified. I wonder if there are any regulations in this regard **or within the industry?