A water tank’s interior is one of its most important parts because it directly affects the safety and cleanliness of the water it holds for daily consumption. Clearly, without proper tank cleaning and inspection, organic and inorganic deposits can collect on surfaces inside water storage tanks, leading to issues with the taste and odor of the water, and can even cause health complications.
Water storage tank inspections should be conducted every year. The purpose of the inspection is to observe the interior steel and coatings to reduce downtime, maximize water quality, and further prevent water storage tank corrosion if found.
But since not all water tanks are the same, selecting the best type of interior water tank inspection based on your system’s unique needs and when the tank is unusable can be tricky. This article will shed light on the four available water storage tank inspection options to help you decide which one is suitable for your tank.
What is Corrosion?
Corrosion is the process in which a refined metal gradually changes into a more stable form, such as an oxide, hydroxide, or sulfide, leading to the deterioration of the material. It occurs when metals react with substances like oxygen, hydrogen, electrical currents, or even dirt and bacteria. Corrosion can also happen when metals are subjected to excessive stress, causing the material to crack or weaken over time.
Steel and aluminum are common materials for metal water tanks. Steel and aluminum water tank corrosion will compromise the tank’s integrity and seriously impact daily water consumption.
Role of Internal Inspections
The need for a proper tank inspection cannot be overstated, as many common tank materials are subject to corrosion, cracking, or rusting if left unattended. Over time, sediment can gather and collect along the bottom of tanks. Beyond the tank itself, potable water tank inspections are crucial for good water maintenance and tank corrosion control.
Failure to do an internal inspection may place a utility in hot water, posing public health dangers. This is why interior inspections must be conducted to ensure water tank corrosion protection.
Types of Tank Inspections
Depending on the tank’s design, materials, usage, external and internal conditions, and the type of maintenance provided to keep it corrosion-free, different inspection methods may be recommended.
Here are a few common inspection types:
-
Visual Inspections
A visual inspection is a basic assessment that involves accessing the water storage tank, opening it, and visually documenting what is observed. Photographs of the tank’s roof, walls, and bottom are typically taken to record the condition of the structural material and the performance of the coating systems. -
Remote Operated Vehicle (ROV) Inspection
An ROV inspection involves using an unmanned submersible craft placed inside a full water tank. The ROV captures images and videos of the tank’s walls and bottom, allowing for detailed documentation of the structural material and coating systems without the need for direct human involvement. -
Dive Inspection
A dive inspection is when a trained diver enters a water storage tank filled with water to inspect its interior. The diver takes photographs of the tank’s roof, walls, and bottom to document the tank’s structural integrity and the condition of the coating systems. -
Washout Inspection A washout inspection is when a water storage tank is drained, and an individual or crew enters the tank to conduct the review. The individual or team captures pictures of the roof, walls, bottom, and all other structures inside the tank to document the tank’s structural material and the coating systems’ performance.
The crew can then power wash all surfaces of the interior of the tank to remove any sediment and organic materials.
Ready to get Your Water Storage Tanks Inspected?
Corrosion is a recurring problem when you have a metal water tank. You know it will happen, but you do not know when. However, other water tank options, like GRP Panel Tanks and Stainless Steel Storage Tanks, are available at Raven American Tanks.
We have the best water tank inspection and repair team all over the US, providing quality maintenance services, water tank corrosion protection, tank corrosion control, and water tank inspection.
We love to be your partner in all your water tank maintenance and repair needs! Call us today to learn more about our other services.
