Regular tank inspections are vital for the safety, reliability, and lifespan of storage systems. Whether you manage industrial facilities or municipal water tanks, identifying early signs of damage can save significant costs and avoid operational downtime.
Why Are Tank Inspections Important?
Tanks that store water, chemicals, or fuels operate under pressure, exposure to elements, and time. Without inspections, you risk corrosion, leakage, and tank failures. A thorough inspection ensures the integrity of your storage tanks, helping maintain safety and compliance with industry standards.
Types of Tanks That Require Inspection
Most commonly, inspections are performed on:
- Ground storage tanks (concrete, steel, fiberglass).
- Elevated water tanks.
- Fuel and chemical containment tanks.
- Liners inside potable or fire water tanks.
Each type presents unique challenges, especially for tank floor access and internal wall conditions.
Tank Inspection Methods
- Visual Inspection: Basic checks for corrosion, rust, dents, cracks, and leaks. Often combined with photography and manual notes.
- Phased Array Ultrasonic Testing: A high-tech method using sound waves to detect subsurface flaws, corrosion, or thinning walls without damaging the tank.
- Destructive Testing: In some cases, samples are taken to test structural resistance — but this is only used when necessary due to its invasive nature.
- Remote Drone or ROV Inspection: For hard-to-reach or hazardous spaces, drones provide high-resolution images and videos of internal tank surfaces.
What Gets Inspected?
An inspection typically involves:
- Tank floor for pitting, corrosion, or sludge buildup.
- Walls and seams for cracks or blistering.
- Roof or cover integrity.
- Ladders, vents, overflow systems.
- Liners for separation or material degradation.
- Connections and valves.
Key Industry Standards: API 653
For aboveground storage tanks, the API 653 standard sets inspection requirements, including:
- Frequency of external/internal inspections.
- Evaluation of settlement, corrosion, and repairs.
- Minimum requirements for inspectors’ qualifications.
In Australia, this often complements AS 1851 and other local regulatory frameworks.
Common Tank Failures and How to Avoid Them
Failure of a tank can lead to environmental hazards, regulatory fines, or operational shutdowns. The most common causes include:
- Corrosion at the tank floor.
- Overpressure or underpressure.
- Improper repairs.
- Infrequent service inspections.
Regular checks and timely maintenance can detect warning signs early, minimizing long-term costs.
How Often Should You Schedule Inspections?
Depending on the tank type and contents:
- Annual service inspections are a minimum.
- Internal inspections every 3–5 years.
- After major repairs or extreme weather events.
Always refer to API 653 or your local regulations to remain compliant.
Final Thoughts
Regular tank inspections are not just a legal requirement — they’re a smart operational strategy. With the use of modern methods like phased array, drones, and remote sensing, inspections have become safer and more accurate.
By maintaining the integrity of your storage tanks, you reduce the risk of failure, protect the environment, and extend the lifespan of vital infrastructure.
Need a professional tank inspection? Contact us at 1800 770 899 for a free consultation.
