3X Engineering performs long-term composite repair solution for tank and pressure vessel reinforcement
Overview
The objective of the repair performed in June 2023 by
3X ENGINEERING (3X)
specialists was to
reinforce the roof of a tank damaged by severe
internal corrosion leading to important through wall defects. The 14.6m diameter oil storage tank, located at a Middle East refinery, was repaired using a 3X Engineering REINFORCEKiT® PATCH solution specifically dedicated to tank reinforcement.
Scope of work
The repair design was performed in compliance with API 653 and ASME PCC-2 standards. It was not
possible to step on the roof, the work was conducted out of a basket man lifted with a crane and supplied by the client. Protection and safety were required
including a charcoal mask for respiratory protection and a height harness.
The roof tank reinforcement was performed following 4 main steps:
-
Surface preparation and cleaning
The surface preparation was performed manually. No electrical or spark productions work was allowed. Once the surface preparation was done, hygrometric conditions were checked and the complete area was cleaned with acetone.
-
Filler and steel plate application
3X filler was applied on small holes and then sealed using steel plates (previously prepared on both sides) covered with 3X specific filler. The steel plates were held using magnets until the filler is cured.
-
Wire mesh application
Wire mesh was applied on the large defected areas and covered with 3X filler before patches application.
-
Composite patching reinforcement
First layer of R3X95 resin was applied on the entire surface. Then patches of Kevlar® fiber with R3X95 resin were applied ==> 9 patches of 3 layers each one was necessary to cover the complete defected area meaning a total of 27 patches installed.
Results
Totally, the repair covered an area of 100m² including the defect. The tank is now repaired and protected from any infiltration from the roof as well as
vapor emissions, as requested by the client.
This repair was designed for a lifetime of 5 years.
