Discussion on the Issues Related to the Maintenance and Disposal of Benzene Tanks
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When cleaning our benzene tanks, we heat them with hot water and then allow natural ventilation for over ten days after installing blind flanges. However, as long as the gas levels are within acceptable limits when the tank is at rest, the benzene concentration exceeds the allowed limits once the floating disk is washed with water, and thus the conditions required for operations inside the tank are not met. How to perform gas displacement during the maintenance of benzene tanks? How to remove the residual benzene trapped in the floating disc seal? Are the conditions for delivery and maintenance met? Please ask an expert for advice.
What type is your floating pad seal? Is it a pouch-type seal that absorbs benzene inside?
Benzene has been absorbed by the sealed sponge – how should it be properly disposed of?
If oil gets into the floating disk seal, the following recommendations are given: If welding is necessary, the floating disk seal must be removed and taken outside the tank; only after ventilation has ensured that the area is safe can welding proceed. If you don’t need to use fire, then just wear a benzene-proof mask when going in for maintenance; make sure to ensure good ventilation and wear a combustible gas detector
According to the 5th floor, the seal must be removed and proper handling done before it can be handed over for maintenance. Additionally, you need to check whether the seal is damaged, which could cause oil absorption by the sac
We have now found that the seal ring is damaged, and there might still be benzene in the sponge inside. How can we ensure safe disassembly? Is ventilation natural or must it be forced mechanically?
The current situation is that the seal is damaged, resulting in oil absorption by the sac – how should this be handled safely?
Implement safety measures, such as using a long-tube respirator, to remove the sponge and carry it out of the tank. This type of seal cannot be used in the future
This should be the process of putting something into a tank. If no welding is involved, it’s simple: just isolate and disconnect the equipment, then use fans to create forced ventilation from the outside; workers can enter wearing gas masks； If welding is to be carried out, it must be done in strict accordance with the requirements; after inspection to confirm compliance, proper ventilation is essential. Flammable and explosive materials must be removed completely – benzene is extremely dangerous. You could either remove those barriers or use steam to disperse them ；
Strictly follow the space operation procedures; those who do not meet the requirements must not enter.