Job Overview
As per the Client’s inspection/maintenance team, their major concern was to detect bottom plate corrosion and potential leakage in above ground storage tanks.
The Acoustic Emission (AE) Examination of above ground storage tank was performed in October 2018 by Arise Global Pte Ltd.
- Sensors were mounted using magnetic holders and high temperature couplant. This allowed appropriate sensitivity and reliability of installation.
- Data was collected/monitored from the above ground storage tank.
- AE signal detection was performed using noise threshold (background noise) with respect to the environmental conditions.
- AE data recorded during the examination was analysed using specially developed analysis procedure.
Inspection Equipment Details
| Tank Diameter | 43.28m |
| Bottom Plate Material | Carbon steel |
| Circumference | 135.97m |
| Built Year | 1991 |
| Liquid inside the tank | Fuel Oil |
| Operating Pressure | Atmospheric |
| Design Pressure | Atmospheric |
| Operating Temperature | Ambient |
| Capacity | 150,000 bbl. |
| Design Code | API 650 |
| Last Cleaning/Repair Date | NA |
Testing Equipment Details
AE Inspection Results
Source Localization Diagram for Tank Bottom
Conclusion
Based on analysis of acoustic emission data, it is possible to conclude that
Recommendations
Based on the results and considering the age of the tank, it was recommended to
- A repeat acoustic emission inspection of Tank should be carried out in 2 years unless an internal inspection of the tank is done within this period. Subsequent acoustic emission inspection/s will provide an accurate measure of AE activity growth in Tank bottom plate.
