WATER TANK INSPECTIONS ARE CRITICAL

You never know what special circumstances might arise when inspecting an industrial water tank. Our crew in Florida got an unexpected surprise last month when they reached the top of this water tank.

A family of raccoons greeted the inspector on the ladder!

The presence of raccoons inside an industrial water tank could be the result of several possible scenarios. In this case, the tank had been out of service for several years. Since it wasn’t in use, routine maintenance may have been overlooked.

Deterioration of the steel provided openings for contaminants. Raccoons are known for their agility, so they are capable of finding their way into various places. Water tanks should be properly sealed and protected to prevent wildlife from entering them.

Another way contaminants can enter a tank is through a failed screen on a vent. If the screen is damaged or missing, it allows the entry of debris and contaminants. The primary purpose of screens on vents is to prevent the entry of debris, insects, animals, and other contaminants into the tank. This can include leaves, sticks, and bird droppings which increases the risk of water contamination. Debris and contaminants that enter the tank through the open vent can mix with the water, compromising its quality and safety. This can result in the presence of pollutants, bacteria or other harmful substances in the water supply.

If the tank is still in use, it can also clogging and reduced water flow. Debris entering the water tank can accumulate over time and lead to clogging issues. This can obstruct the flow of water within the tank, impacting the water pressure and distribution. Reduced water flow can cause inconvenience and affect the efficiency of the water system.

If larger debris enters the water tank it may cause harm to the pump, float switches, or other equipment inside the tank. This can result in mechanical failures and require costly repairs or replacements.

Are there guidelines and recommendations for water tank inspections?

Yes, there are guidelines and recommendations for water tank inspection to ensure the safety and quality of the water supply. These guidelines may vary depending on the use of the tank. If the tank is used for fire protection, the National Fire Protection Association recommends that fire protection tanks without cathodic protection be inspected and cleaned out every three years. Tanks with cathodic protection used for fire protection are only required to be inspected every 5 years.

The American Water Works Association recommends tanks be inspected every 3 years.

How do I choose a water tank inspection company?

When selecting a service provider, ensure they have experience in water tank inspections, proper certifications, and a good reputation. Look for companies that specifically focus on water tank maintenance and inspections. They have expertise in assessing the structural integrity, cleanliness, and functionality of water tanks.

Pittsburg Tank & Tower Group provides tank inspection, maintenance, repair, and construction of water tanks. In fact, we’ve been doing it for over 100 years! We’ve seen an evolution of tanks from wooden to riveted and bolted to welded. We provide services for existing tanks as well as new construction.

Here’s a brief overview of our services:

Tank Inspection

PTTG conducts thorough inspections of tanks to assess their structural integrity, identify potential issues, and ensure compliance with industry standards and regulations. This includes visual inspections, non-destructive testing, and other techniques to evaluate tank conditions.

Tank Maintenance and Repair

We provide maintenance and repair services to address issues found during inspections or to extend the lifespan of tanks. This can involve activities such as cleaning, coating, corrosion protection, and structural repairs.

Tank Construction

PTTG is involved in the construction of new tanks, including above ground storage tanks, elevated water tanks, and other types of industrial tanks. We offer engineering, design, fabrication, and installation services to meet specific project requirements.

Tower Services

In addition to tanks, PTTG also offers services related to communication and broadcast towers. This includes broadcast tower inspection, maintenance, repair, and construction for communication towers, water towers, and other types of elevated steel structures.

Overall, Pittsburg Tank & Tower Group specializes in providing comprehensive solutions for tank and tower-related needs, ranging from inspection and maintenance to construction and repair.

Protect your asset and call PTTG for a tank inspection. Water tanks are an asset and should be protected with proper inspection and care.