How to repair a methanol storage tank leak
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A leak was detected in the methanol storage tank; the methanol has been transferred to another tank. Does anyone know how to repair the tank? Methanol is explosive
Please indicate where the leakage occurred
It can be cleaned with water, as methanol and water are miscible with each other in any proportion; after cleaning, it is purged with nitrogen, and once the purification is complete, the leakage points are welded shut.
After nitrogen purging is completed, blind flanges are installed at the inlet and outlet flanges, as well as on the bypass. Nitrogen should be continuously supplied to maintain positive pressure, and the manhole had better remain open.
First, purge thoroughly with nitrogen, then rinse with water. Open all manholes and use axial flow fans for ventilation. Take samples for analysis; once they meet the requirements, proceed with welding repairs.
The last edit to this post was made by Haoshi Duomo on 2010-1-10 at 11:30. If the leak is at the bottom of the tank, I have a method: first, create an iron base on the ground with threaded holes; then bring it to the site and level it out. Based on the distance between the tank and the base, make a screw rod of the appropriate length, and attach an arc-shaped iron plate to the very end of the screw rod. By moving the screw, the arc-shaped iron plate can gradually press against the area where there is a leak. It’s guaranteed not to leak. This is what is known as the fixture method. Notify analysis is tested daily. Wait until the tank inspection is due before replacing it or carrying out welding repairs.
It is best to use steam cleaning and nitrogen purging, install blind flanges at the inlet and outlet, and carry out welding only after the analysis shows satisfactory results.