Diesel tank cleaning ~ Rafibra

Why is cleaning diesel tanks so important?

The organic origin of hydrocarbons makes the degradation of all of its derivatives possible. In the case of stored diesel, the natural impurities of the product, plus the condensed water, produce heavy sludge. Hence, cleaning tanks regularly is vital.

The cleaning and repair of fuel tanks is an essential procedure to extend the use life of your tank and as a preventive measure to prevent accidents in oil installations.

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Cleaning diesel tanks

At Rafibra, we are experts in cleaning tanks containing diesel, petrol, Jet A1 and chemical products such as acetone, alcohol or paints

We clean the diesel tank in the most efficient and safe way once the tank has been degassed and we have checked the atmosphere in the tank is consistently below 1% LFL.

Over time, traces of water and sludge accumulate in the bottom of the tank. These impurities can come from the fuel itself, water and impurities can enter the tank or there may be problems with the sealing of the pipework.

We start by removing all of the sludge from the bottom of the tank, cleaning the walls with water at a high pressure and using disinfectant developed and manufactured by our own chemists, cleaning and drying the bottom of the tank.

If the tank contains product which is in good condition, the existing clean fuel can be separated from the impurities during the cleaning process. This fuel will be returned to the tank once the cleaning process is complete.

The liquids stemming from the cleaning of the fuel tanks will be stored in suitable containers for their subsequent transfer to toxic and hazardous waste treatment facilities.

In this regard, Rafibra acts as a waste management and transport company for the hydrocarbonated sludge and other hydrocarbon waste. The degradation of the explosion index will be checked during this operation and after emptying the fuel left in the tank.

All of the ventilation equipment will be connected to earth, along with the tank structure.

Oxygen will not be used for ventilation under any circumstances.

Cleaning diesel tanks as a preventive control

The fateful enemy of diesel or petrol tanks is corrosion. This can occur for a variety of reasons; externally, due to sudden temperature changes or exposure to extreme environments. This is where the water-tightness of the tank may be reduced.

Internally, particulates of water or waste from the hydrocarbons settle and accumulate in the tank. This is common with all tanks. As a result, micro-organisms are formed on the bottom which can compromise the quality of the product and the correct working of the ducts and machinery installed.

Regular cleaning of fuel tanks helps to eliminate these threats and extend their use life, while also reducing future corrective maintenance costs.

ACCESS TO THE INTERIOR FOR THE CLEANING OF TANKS

Cleaning and degassing of diesel tanks

We do not enter or remain in the tank to carry out the cleaning until the light hydrocarbons in the atmosphere are below 1% LFL.

Operatives accessing the inside of the tank will be provided with the following equipment:

Cotton underwear.
Cotton or neoprene coveralls.
Neoprene long boots.
Gloves approved for this type of products.
Positive pressure face mask. The air source must come from gas-free areas.
Harness and safety ropes, hooks to the outside, where appropriate rescue means will be available.
Direct reading explosimeter with sound signal, permanently connected.
In addition to everything required to carry out the work in conditions of maximum safety.

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