The operation and application of a double-walled stainless steel tank
When do you choose a double-walled tank?
One of the decisive reasons for choosing a double-walled stainless steel tank is that it guarantees the safe storage of liquids without posing a risk to the environment. Sales Manager Jelle Molenaar states the following: “Customers choose double-walled tanks because they comply with current environmental regulations. In some cases, a tank is placed above a spill containment basin, but if this is not possible, a double-walled tank offers the solution. This ensures that the medium stored in the tank cannot harm the environment.”
If a leak should occur, the liquid remains within the outer wall, preventing contamination of the soil and groundwater. In combination with leak detection, a problem can be identified at an early stage. Government authorities and permitting bodies often require that tanks used for storing hazardous liquids are either placed above a spill containment basin or constructed as double-walled tanks with leak detection. Which solution is permitted depends on the requested permit and the applicable standards.
Leak detection in a double-walled tank
The space between the inner and outer wall of a double-walled tank has a primary function: detecting a possible leak. By integrating a leak detection system into the interstitial space, the double-walled tank often does not need to be equipped with a spill containment basin.
Another monitoring system is based on level detection: “This alternative system operates without negative or positive pressure in the double wall. Instead, a level sensor is installed in the lower section of the interstitial space. When liquid leaks from the inner tank, it collects in the double shell. The sensor detects this liquid and immediately sends an alarm to the customer’s control system. This type of sensor can, for example, be a tuning fork sensor.”
What is involved in building a double-walled stainless steel tank?
Building a double-walled stainless steel tank is more complex than constructing a single-walled tank. From the design phase onward, Gpi takes into account the properties of the stored medium, such as its chemical composition, corrosiveness, and any hygiene requirements. These factors determine the material selection, wall thicknesses, and surface finish of the inner wall.
According to Jelle Molenaar, a great deal is involved in building a double-walled stainless steel tank: “The standards for double-walled stainless steel tanks specify detailed technical requirements for the design and construction of both the inner and outer walls. For example, we strictly follow the rules set out in Kiwa BRL-K796/02, which serves as a guideline when a tank must be double-walled. We also comply with the NEN-EN standards, which specify the required wall thicknesses for double-walled tanks.”
In Germany, the WHG standard requires tanks to be designed with multiple protective measures to prevent leaks. This may include a double-walled construction, advanced sealing techniques, and regular inspections to maintain safety. In addition, Gpi also takes international guidelines into account during the design process, such as the UDT standards from Poland, ensuring that the tanks meet the highest safety requirements.
By combining these strict standards and guidelines with expert design and craftsmanship, Gpi is able to deliver double-walled stainless steel tanks that are safe, reliable, and suitable for a wide range of applications.
