Geometric Inspection of Storage Tanks
Storage tanks are among the most sensitive assets on an industrial site. To ensure their integrity, safe operation, and regulatory compliance, they are subject to periodic Non-Destructive Testing (NDT). These NDT inspections include geometric inspection and visual inspection, both essential for assessing tank stability and detecting any deformation.
A regulatory inspection at the heart of maintenance
Storage tanks contain hazardous or polluting liquid products and are therefore subject to strict regulations. Their periodic inspection falls within the requirements of the following codes and technical guidelines:
CODRES
Tank construction and repair code
API 653
Inspection, repair, and reconstruction standard
EEMUA 159
Recognized European guide for tank maintenance
PM2I / DT94
French technical guides derived from ICPE regulations
Inspections performed during a regulatory inspection
A complete tank inspection combines several types of NDT:
Geometric inspection
Measurement of tank verticality, flatness, and roundness
Visual inspection
Detailed examination of the tank, shell courses, welds, and fittings
UT thickness measurements
Assessment of wall loss by ultrasonic testing
ACFM inspection
Crack detection using an electromagnetic method
Taken together, these operations make it possible to determine the tank’s remaining service life and ensure regulatory compliance.
The limitations of traditional methods
Historically, geometric inspections were carried out using a plumb line, an optical level, or a theodolite. These instruments now have several limitations:
Why these methods are outdated
Point-by-point measurements that only cover part of the tank. Operator dependence, which can lead to interpretation differences.
Long intervention times, requiring repeated repositioning. No digital modeling, making it impossible to compare results over time.
The contribution of 3D laser scanning
3D laser scanning has profoundly transformed geometric tank inspection practices. This technology makes it possible to obtain a complete map of the tank and visualize both global and local deformations in three dimensions.
- Full digital model of the tank
- Complete mapping of deformations (verticality, flatness, ovalization)
- Time savings on site
- Digital archiving and comparison over time between inspection campaigns
Preventive maintenance. 3D scanning is becoming a modern integrity monitoring tool for industrial operators, helping shift from a corrective logic to a predictive one.
ROBOPLANET: expertise and regulatory compliance
ROBOPLANET uses the Altiscan and UT_Pole systems for the geometric and dimensional inspection of storage tanks, in compliance with CODRES, API 653, EEMUA 159, and PM2I / DT94 requirements.
- High metrological reliability and measurement repeatability
- Reduced inspection time on site
- Full compliance with applicable codes and guidelines
Combined with rigorous visual inspection, ultrasonic thickness measurements, and ACFM inspections, geometric inspection provides a complete and reliable view of the tank’s structural condition.
ROBOPLANET supports operators in risk prevention and the long-term reliability of their facilities.
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