What are the precautions for changing the product type in storage tanks?
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This post was last edited by hnan on 2016-4-13 at 12:38. There are currently two methanol storage tanks with a capacity of 3,000 cubic meters each; they have internal floating roofs and aluminum floating disks. The tanks and pipelines are made of carbon steel. Their utilization rate is not high, with an annual volume of only a few ten thousand tons. These tanks have been in use for about 8 years. Due to production requirements, diesel is to be used instead. What are the main things to keep in mind? 1. The entire system of storage tanks and pipelines needs to be cleaned, followed by a pressure test. Are inspections of the wall thickness and welds required, along with the issuance of an inspection report? 2. Is it necessary to conduct new safety assessments and environmental impact assessments when switching to a new variety? It turns out that they did not have the qualifications to operate with diesel.
My personal opinion: 1) The system definitely needs to be cleaned; I don’t think there’s a need for anything else. I initially believe that the piping system is sufficient for handling these two types of materials. I’d appreciate feedback from others. 2) If there is no business license, an application must be submitted, and the **departmental procedures must be followed again. As for safety assessments and environmental impact assessments, the requirements from 8 years ago are quite different from those today; it’s necessary to communicate with the relevant departments. In my understanding, it means that the modifications have to meet the current requirements of various departments, such as those related to safety supervision and fire protection. Especially single-tank single-dike. 3) There are quite a few material changes in the chemical plant; it doesn’t seem to be there any other major issues
It’s really unfair to talk about using a single tank and a single dike; if safety requirements exist, then it can only be upgraded in accordance with the current standards.
I looked at a methanol storage tank project I worked on previously; the pressure pipelines for diesel and methanol there were of GC2 grade, and the inspection requirements followed the same standards. There is little difference in the basic material choices for pipeline grade tables; you just need to verify the blueprints against the actual conditions on site. One tank with one dike; a partition dike can be created in the middle, about the thickness of a brick. It won’t cost much, and it should meet the requirements. Another thing to keep in mind is self-control. Methanol is toxic; it’s not clear whether an alarm for toxic gases or one for flammable gases is installed. We usually choose the most sensitive setting. For diesel, a combustible gas alarm should be used.
It can be replaced; an environmental impact assessment is required in Anping as well
For safety assessments and environmental impact assessments, the design documents are a prerequisite; does that mean the design institute also needs to prepare a simple review report?
This post was last edited by trant323 on 2016-4-14 at 14:19. When switching to a new variety, it is definitely necessary to carry out procedures such as safety assessments, environmental impact assessments, and other requirements related to the simultaneous implementation of these aspects. The difference is that this project involves converting methanol into diesel; methanol is classified as a Class A substance in terms of fire hazard, while diesel is currently classified as a Class B substance. According to petrochemical regulations, if it is only stored, diesel’s fire hazard can be considered as that of a Class C substance, thus the risk is significantly reduced. It would be advisable to consult the local safety authorities to determine whether any action is required. If following the standard procedures, it is necessary to have a design institute prepare a feasibility study, followed by safety assessments and environmental impact assessments, as well as a dedicated report on the design of safety facilities and an acceptance evaluation report.
I work with internal floating discs. As a reminder from my side, it’s important to check whether the two types of media are suitable for the sealing around the existing floating discs.