Nitrogen-sealed tank measurement
Thread Content
Our unit has newly installed oil tanks equipped with nitrogen seals. I’m not very clear about the methods for measuring the level in such tanks, as well as the safety measures required. Could anyone please advise me?
Turn off the nitrogen seal, wear a filtered gas mask (primarily to prevent inhalation of hydrogen sulfide or other toxic gases). After opening the cover of the gauge port, wait until no nitrogen gas is emitted as a result of pressure release; then, measurements can be taken in accordance with the standard procedures for measuring tanks under normal atmospheric pressure. Once the measurements are complete, check the oxygen content in the gas phase of the tank – it is generally required that this level be below 8 percent. It is recommended to minimize the use of nitrogen-filled tanks for level measurement; nowadays, level gauges have very high measurement accuracy, so it is sufficient to conduct regular checks on these gauges to verify the level.
Replace the tank gauge hole with a sealed ball valve, and purchase a dedicated three-parameter meter (temperature, level, water layer)
Nitrogen is an asphyxiant gas; could it be dangerous?
“Is a “hermetically sealed ball valve” something like a steam isolation valve or similar?