How to Protect Storage Tanks From Corrosion

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Corrosion is a storage tank corrosion protection phenomenon that can wreak havoc on storage tanks. The damage caused by corrosion can be very costly and even result in tank failure if not properly protected. Storage tanks used to hold water, chemicals, crude oil and clean petroleum products can undergo a chemical reaction with the environment. The resulting oxidation of the metal surface causes the tank to corrode and rust over time. This can result in leaks, deterioration and even fires if the corroding tank is filled with hazardous liquids.

One way to protect your tanks from corrosion is by using protective coatings. This includes epoxy coatings for the inside of the tank as well as rust-resistant paint for the outside. Regularly inspect the protective coating and touch up any areas that are damaged or deteriorating.

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Another method to prevent corrosive damage is the use of cathodic protection. This is a system that uses an impressed current to control corrosion on the steel structure of the tank. Impressed current cathodic protection systems utilize a pair of metal structures, known as bimetallic couples (Figure 1). Electric current flows from the anode (the structure that corrodes) to the cathode (the structure that is not corroding). The electrical current causes the electrolyte to polarize and the anode to corrode at a much lower rate than would occur without the cathodic protection.

Field erected tanks should be set on solid concrete pads to minimize the chance of soil contact. The pads should be designed to channel the liquid away from the bottom of the tank, preventing moisture from collecting and cracking the pad.