Definition of a double-skinned tank.

A double-skinned tank is a type of tank designed with two walls (or shells) instead of a single one. This construction provides extra protection and safety against leaks and contamination. Here are some important aspects of double skinned tanks:

Features and Benefits of Double skinned Tanks

1. Leak protection:
   The primary function of a double-skinned tank is to prevent leaks from the inner wall from escaping into the environment. Should the inner wall be compromised, the fluid will be trapped by the outer wall.
   If leakage monitoring with over or under pressure is installed, then it will also detect if there is a leak from the outside of the tank. In other words, there is very minimal risk of leakage from the tank.
2. Environmental protection:
   Double-skinned tanks are especially important for the storage of hazardous or polluting substances, such as fuel, chemicals and other potentially harmful liquids. The extra wall protects against soil and water pollution.
3. Supervision:
   Many double-skinned tanks are equipped with sensors or monitoring systems that can detect leaks between the walls. This enables early detection of problems and rapid remedial action. The safest method of leak monitoring is by positive or negative pressure.
4. Regulation and Compliance:
   In many countries and regions, the use of double skinned tanks is a requirement to comply with environmental regulations and safety standards. This is especially true for industries such as petrochemicals, water treatment and agriculture.
5. Security:
   Double-skinned tanks reduce the risk of fires and explosions by limiting the leakage of flammable materials. The extra wall acts as a barrier that reduces the risk of ignition.

Construction and Materials

• Materials: Double-walled tanks can be made of different materials depending on what is to be stored and the requirements for durability and corrosion resistance. Common materials include steel, stainless steel, fiberglass and plastic.
• Design: The tank consists of an inner tank (primary tank) and an outer tank (secondary tank). There is then a gap between these walls which can be used to detect any leaks.

Areas of application

• Fuel Storage: Used at service stations and in fuel depots to prevent soil contamination from fuel leaks.
• Chemical storage: Used in industries that handle hazardous chemicals to ensure that any leaks do not contaminate the environment.
• Water Treatment: Storage of chemicals used in water treatment processes.
• Agriculture: Storage of liquid fertilizers and pesticides.

Summary

Double-skinned tanks are essential for the safe and environmentally sound storage of potentially hazardous liquids. Their double-wall construction offers an extra measure of safety that protects against leaks and contamination, making them a preferred choice in many industries.