During the use of LPG tanks, there is a risk of leakage, explosions, and other accidents due to corrosion, deformation, and other factors, which can endanger the safety of personnel, equipment, and property, as well as cause environmental pollution. Therefore, regular inspection and protection of LPG tanks are of paramount importance. The following points should be noted:
1. Regular Inspection of LPG Tanks
Key aspects to be checked during the regular inspection of LPG tanks include:
·Cracks, overheating, deformations, leaks, and damage in the main body of the LPG tank, as well as at interfaces (valves, pipelines), and welding joints.
·Corrosion on the external surface of the LPG tank.
·Damage to insulation layers, such as breakage, falling off, dampness, and cold spots.
·Abnormal vibrations and noises in the LPG tank and adjacent pipelines or components, as well as any conflicts between them.
·Damage to supports or support components, settling, tilting, cracking of the foundation, and the integrity of fasteners.
Emission (drainage) equipment for the LPG tank.
·The presence of over-temperature, over-pressure, and overload conditions during operation and work.
·Grounding facilities for the LPG tank.
·Monitoring procedures for the LPG tank.
2. Control of Abnormal Phenomena in LPG Tanks
In the event of any of the following abnormal occurrences in an LPG tank, effective control measures should be promptly implemented and the relevant authorities informed in accordance with regulations:
·Operating pressure, medium temperature, or wall temperature, as well as the presence of a certain corrosive component in the medium, exceeding allowable values.
·Major pressure-bearing components developing cracks, bulges, deformations, or leaks.
·Malfunction of safety accessories for the LPG tank.
·Damage to connections or fasteners.
·Occurrence of a fire.
·Overfilling of the LPG tank.
·Inability to maintain effective liquid level control.
·Severe oscillations in the LPG tank and pipeline.
·Occurrence of other situations not allowed by safety production technical regulations for the continued operation of the LPG tank.
3. Scheduled Maintenance of LPG Tanks
Operating entities should pay attention to the scheduled maintenance of LPG tanks, including:
·Timely addressing and rectifying issues such as running, leaking, dripping, and other anomalies in the tank.
·Regularly performing corrosion prevention and insulation work on LPG tanks.
·Periodically lubricating the main bolts of LPG tanks and applying rust prevention measures to other fasteners.
·Conducting inspections and protection of LPG tanks that are temporarily out of service, along with anti-freezing, dust-proof, moisture-proof, and anti-corrosion measures.
In summary, routine inspection and maintenance during the operation are crucial for ensuring the safety of LPG tanks.