Inspection and Full Assessment of Tank Condition

In this blog article, we discuss a project carried out for a client whose tanks were critical to operations and in lethal service. Nucleom offered a complete NDT solutions service (ultrasound, 3D scanning, finite element analysis) to assess the full condition of the tanks. 

Tank inspection

Our customer had operationally critical tanks in lethal service, the condition of which they did not know precisely. This posed a potential risk to the safety of workers and the environment and could raise concerns about the reliability and ability of the tanks to meet operational requirements. As a result, our client was looking to determine whether the tanks could continue to operate in their current condition or whether they needed to be repaired.

Solutions offered by Nucleom

HandyScan

Nucleom offered the client a wide range of NDT solutions, including the use of phased array ultrasonic testing (PAUT) and several 3D scanning technologies to model the volume of the tank.

Using 3D Scan, Nucleom was able to improve the accuracy of the modelling used by measuring corrosion using HandySCAN and Pipecheck software, in specific areas. In addition, the combination of the HandySCAN and Long Range devices enabled the tanks to be scanned as a whole to obtain their geometry in order to provide the data required for finite element analysis (FEA). Having carried out this in-depth analysis, Nucleom then carried out the FEA analysis to determine the condition of the tank.

Finally, we continued our tank assessment with one of our API-certified engineers for any repairs to the tank. With this global approach, the customer benefited from a complete turnkey mechanical integrity service.

Customer Benefits

Result of a mechanical simulation on a surface modelled from UT data

Thanks to the inspection solutions we have provided for our customer, he now knows exactly how long his tanks will last and can plan future repairs to optimise his maintenance plan, according to its quality program. In this case, we was able to confirm that the tank could be used in its current condition. By accurately calculating the stresses at each point on the tank and from the results obtained, the client was able to plan for future repairs while avoiding major unforeseen short-term costs.

Collaborate with Nucleom

Nucleom combines a range of NDT technologies to increase the reliability of its inspections and the accuracy of its measurements. Working with Nucleom also means gaining access to solutions tailored to the specific nature of your problem. Nucleom stands out for its turnkey services and its support throughout the project.

If you would like to find out more about our METROLOGY solutions or discuss your tank inspection needs, please contact our SALES TEAM. We’re here to help.

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