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Introduction
Steel tanks are an integral part of the infrastructure for storing petroleum products. They are used at oil depots, industrial enterprises, gas stations, processing complexes and logistics terminals. The choice of the type of tank depends on a number of factors: product volume, location conditions, available space, fire safety requirements, as well as ease of maintenance. In this article, we will take a detailed look at the three main types of steel tanks for storing petroleum products — vertical, horizontal and underground — and compare their design features, purpose and operational advantages.
1. Vertical tanks for petroleum products
Construction:
These are cylindrical steel tanks installed on a concrete or earthen foundation. Depending on the type of roof, they can be equipped with a flat, conical or domed roof, as well as a floating roof to reduce the evaporation of volatile components.
Advantages:
- The optimal solution for large volumes (from 100 to 50,000 m³).
- Compact placement on the site due to vertical orientation.
- Possibility of using automated level, temperature, and fire extinguishing control systems.
- Convenience in performing hydrostatic tests and maintenance.
Appointment:
- Long-term or permanent storage of crude oil, fuel oil, diesel fuel, technical liquids.
Application:
- Oil depots, oil refineries, large logistics facilities.
2. Horizontal tanks for petroleum products
Construction:
These are steel cylindrical tanks placed horizontally on special supports (saddles). They are installed both above ground and underground.
Advantages:
- Lower manufacturing costs for volumes up to 100 m³.
- Easy integration into existing infrastructure.
- Easy maintenance if placed above ground.
- Possibility of mobile use.
Appointment:
- Temporary or distributed storage of gasoline, diesel fuel, lubricants, and light oil fractions.
Application:
- Gas stations, trucking companies, mobile storage facilities, backup storage systems.
3. Underground tanks for petroleum products
Design:
Tanks are placed underground in protective casings or special shafts. They are additionally treated with anti-corrosion coatings with high chemical resistance. They are often used as double-walled tanks with built-in leakage control systems.
Advantages:
- Full integration into the landscape (does not occupy ground area).
- Protection from external temperature fluctuations and solar radiation.
- Higher level of safety when storing flammable products.
- Minimizing visual impact on the facility.
Appointment:
- Storage of gasoline, diesel fuel, and alcohol-containing mixtures in areas with limited space or increased environmental requirements.
Application:
- Gas stations, commercial facilities in urban areas, infrastructure with strict environmental standards.
Conclusion
Each type of tank has its own advantages and purposes. Vertical tanks are ideal for storing large volumes of petroleum products on an industrial scale. Horizontal tanks are convenient for local use at small facilities. Underground tanks are the best choice for facilities with limited space or high environmental requirements.
Rational selection of the type of tank, taking into account operating conditions, product type, and site specifics, ensures the safety, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness of the petroleum product storage process.
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