Preventing Rust and Corrosion on Storage Tanks

No matter what they’re used for storing, outdoor storage tanks and silos face some significant challenges associated with their constant exposure to the elements. They might be used for holding water or chemicals, or storing dry goods like grain or sand. Whatever their purpose, it is important that people and companies who own these structures make it a priority to take steps toward tank rust prevention in Colorado.

Even highly durable steel structures like these can quickly develop issues with rust and corrosion in the right circumstances. Without the proper protections in place, rust can eventually result in major structural failure, which would result in you having to remove and replace the old tank or silo. It’s far more sensible for you to engage in preventative maintenance with your storage tanks so you can maximize their lifespan and avoid replacement.

Here are just a few things you can do to protect your tanks against issues with rust and corrosion:

• Regularly inspect your tanks: As part of your regular maintenance, you should inspect your silos and tanks frequently. Walk around the entire structure, carefully analyzing its surface for signs of corrosion. If you do this regularly, you should notice new trouble spots when they arise, and you should be able to take quick action to limit their potential impact.
• Know the signs of corrosion and rust: Of course, if you’re going to perform these regular walkarounds, you’ll need to know exactly what you’re looking for. Some of the most common signs that indicate a potential issue with rust or corrosion include bubbling or flaking paint, red stains on the metal’s surface and other types of bulges or irregularities that appear to be located beneath the surface of the metal. If the structure is made out of something other than steel, the corrosion might have different symptoms. A galvanized steel, for example, will first show signs of corrosion as white stains before the zinc layer wears away, at which point the characteristic red of rust will appear.
• Limit contact with corrosives: Steel will not just rust by itself—it needs to come into contact with corrosive materials, chemicals or caustics. Water and oxygen can become a corrosive, but more immediate problems tend to be herbicides, fertilizers and chemicals. Strategic installation and land usage can help you minimize contact as much as possible. There’s only so much you can do about contact with rainwater, but you can cut down on contact with other corrosive agents.
• Clean: Clean off your silos and tanks regularly, removing any debris that’s stuck to the exterior of the surface. If debris stays stuck on the surface, it gives rust and corrosion a prime place to attack.
• Paint: Every so often, you should invest in repainting or refinishing your tanks. The paint will wear out over time, and the bare metal underneath will be exposed, making it susceptible to rust. Keep an eye on the condition of your refinish, and repaint or refinish as needed.

For more information about steps you can take to ensure tank rust prevention in Colorado, contact DJC Enterprises Inc. today.

Categorised in: Storage Tank Maintenance

This post was written by Writer