Water storage tanks have the ever-important responsibility of supplying clean water to specific regions throughout the country. Any incident in which clean water is not supplied will result in consequences. Dirty or contaminated water can cause serious health issues, even death. Thus, the essential tank equipment must be up for the task. Moreover, it must be regularly inspected to ensure it is up for the weighted responsibility. Here are some maintenance issues to lookout for with a water storage tank:
Conditions should not change very often for water storage tanks. They are stationary, concealed and rely on only one element. However, strange things do happen.
For example, a latch could be opened allowing an animal to enter into the tank or a person to damage the tank. There have been instances in which birds find their way in and either stay in or leave some sort of bacteria behind.
It’s so easy to avoid such occurrences. All a company has to do is secure the tank. Furthermore, make sure it is locked and latched to where nothing can enter and no external forces can force the tank open. Every water storage tank should be surrounded by a security fence. The gates of the fence should be locked at all times in which a personnel member is not at the location. These security measures will be inspected, though, there should be no reason for them to fail inspection.
Bacteria can grow, even in a water tank. The makeup of a water storage tank makes it difficult for bacteria to grow, but it will happen if not routinely inspected. Bacteria can stem from animals or insects finding their way into the tank. It can also stem from chemical mixes. Rust is a common issue. Whether the tank is not coated properly or the vents within the tank are not maintained or cleaned, rust can result.
Obviously, the key inspection component is the tank and what is inside the tank. Every inspection should consist of either emptying the tank or sending an ROV (Remote Operated Vehicle) into the tank. Of course, emptying the tank will require a re-fill, and that costs money. More and more companies are relying on the use of ROVs. Reason being, ROVs can do everything a manual operation can, but without the manpower. Submersibles can take live video of the inside of a water storage tank. A worker can view the video and determine the condition of the tank. Submersibles can scale the entire cylinder, including the cap. Plus, most submersibles have thermographic technology installed to help reveal leaks.
Ultimately, maintenance issues with water storage tanks are easy to avoid if specific protocols are taken, including an in-depth inspection at least once every three years. There are other important aspects of water storage tanks to look over during inspection; however, the issues mentioned above can be easily resolved and avoided.
If you are looking for innovative inspection technology to simplify the inspection process, Frazier Reliability Solutions can help. We prioritize safety and accuracy with our available technology. Contact Frazier Reliability Solutions today! Also, please visit our blog for additional helpful information.