Entering Spherical Storage Tanks: Exploring the Important Containers for Industrial Storage

In the vast field of industry, spherical storage tanks are like shining pearls, undertaking crucial storage tasks.

I. Unique Structure of Spherical Storage Tanks

The reason why spherical storage tanks have a unique spherical appearance is that this shape has incomparable advantages in mechanical properties. When a sphere is subjected to internal pressure, it can evenly distribute the stress on the entire surface of the tank body. Compared with other shaped containers, such as cylindrical ones, spherical storage tanks can withstand higher pressure under the same wall thickness condition.

From the perspective of material utilization efficiency, spherical storage tanks can build a larger storage space with less material. This not only reduces material costs but also has advantages in installation and occupied space. The outer shell is usually made of high-strength steel to ensure structural stability under various harsh environments and high-pressure conditions.

II. Working Principle

Spherical storage tanks are mainly used to store various gases and liquids. For gas storage, such as liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), compressed natural gas (CNG), etc., the storage tank stores the gas after compression or liquefaction under certain pressure and temperature conditions through a special filling and discharging system. During use, the valve is adjusted according to the demand to make the gas output at a stable flow rate.

In terms of liquid storage, whether it is petrochemical raw materials, chemical products or other liquid materials, spherical storage tanks use their sealed internal space to ensure that the liquid will not leak or be contaminated by the outside world during storage. The internal liquid level monitoring system can monitor the storage volume of the liquid in real time so as to carry out filling or discharging operations in a timely manner.

III. Manufacturing Process

The manufacturing process of spherical storage tanks requires a high degree of accuracy and strict quality control. First of all, accurate design calculations should be carried out. According to parameters such as storage medium, design pressure and temperature, key data such as the size and wall thickness of the tank body are determined.

During the material preparation stage, high-quality steel is selected and strictly inspected to ensure that the material meets relevant standards. During the manufacturing process, advanced cutting and welding techniques are used to splice the steel into a sphere. Welding quality is the key, which requires professional welders and strict welding process evaluation to ensure the strength and tightness of the weld.

After the tank body is manufactured, strict non-destructive testing, such as ultrasonic testing and radiographic testing, is carried out to detect whether there are internal defects. Finally, surface treatment and anti-corrosion coating are carried out to extend the service life of the spherical storage tank.

IV. Application Fields

Petrochemical Industry

Spherical storage tanks are common storage equipment in petrochemical enterprises. They are used to store various petroleum products, such as crude oil, gasoline, diesel, etc., as well as various chemical raw materials and intermediate products. In refineries, chemical plants and other places, spherical storage tanks can realize large-scale material storage and ensure the continuity of the production process.

For some flammable and explosive chemical materials, the safe design and reliable sealing performance of spherical storage tanks can effectively prevent leakage and accidents.

Energy Field

In the field of natural gas storage and distribution, spherical storage tanks play an important role. Compressed natural gas can be stored in spherical storage tanks and then transported through pipelines to various gas filling stations or directly supplied to users.

Spherical storage tanks can also be used to store liquefied natural gas (LNG). Since LNG needs to be stored at extremely low temperatures, the special design and thermal insulation measures of spherical storage tanks can meet this requirement.

Other Industrial Fields

In the food industry, spherical storage tanks can be used to store some special food raw materials or intermediate products, such as liquid food additives, alcoholic beverages, etc. The sealed storage environment can ensure the quality and safety of food.

In the metallurgical industry, spherical storage tanks can be used to store some gaseous media, such as argon and nitrogen, for protecting the special process environment in the metal smelting process.

V. Safety Guarantee Measures

Pressure Monitoring and Control

High-precision pressure sensors are installed to monitor the pressure changes inside the spherical storage tank in real time. When the pressure exceeds the set safety value, the safety valve is automatically activated for pressure relief to prevent the tank body from bursting due to overpressure.

A pressure regulating system is equipped, which can accurately control the pressure inside the tank according to storage and use requirements to ensure the safety of the storage process.

Leak Detection

Advanced leak detection technologies are adopted, such as gas leak detectors and liquid leak monitoring systems, to detect possible leakage of the tank body in a timely manner. Once a leak is detected, the emergency plan is immediately activated and corresponding measures are taken for handling.

Regularly check and maintain the sealing parts and valves of the tank body to ensure good sealing performance.

Anti-corrosion and Maintenance

Since spherical storage tanks are exposed to the external environment for a long time, they are easily corroded. Regular anti-corrosion treatment is carried out on the tank body, such as painting anti-corrosion coatings and performing cathodic protection, to extend the service life of the tank body.

A detailed maintenance plan is formulated to regularly check, repair and maintain the tank body, including checking the integrity of the weld and the change of the wall thickness, so as to discover and deal with potential safety hazards in a timely manner.

Spherical storage tanks, with their unique structure, efficient storage capacity and wide application fields, occupy an important position in industrial storage. During their design, manufacturing and use, relevant standards and safety regulations should be strictly followed to ensure their safe and reliable operation, providing a strong guarantee for industrial production and social and economic development.