A Deep Dive into the World of Storage Tank Internal Floating Roofs
February 28, 2024 | Tank Inspection Services | No Comments
Storage tanks are vital for storing liquids such as oil, chemicals, and water in several industries. Many storage tanks are equipped with internal floating roofs (IFRs) to minimize evaporation losses and reduce emissions. IFRs float on the surface of the stored liquid and move up and down with the liquid level, creating a seal that helps prevent vapors from escaping. To ensure the floating roof is in optimal condition, it’s essential to hire water tank inspection services company for regular tank check-up.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the different types of internal floating roof storage tanks, their features, and their applications in various industries.
Single Deck IFRs: Single deck IFRs consist of a single horizontal deck that floats on the surface of the stored liquid. These IFRs are typically used in smaller storage tanks and are designed to provide a simple and cost-effective solution for reducing evaporation losses. Single deck IFRs are easy to install and maintain, making them popular for many industries.
Double Deck IFRs: Double deck IFRs consist of two horizontal decks – an upper deck and a lower deck – separated by a series of pontoons or chambers. The upper deck floats on the surface of the stored liquid, while the lower deck remains submerged. Double-deck IFRs are more complex than single-deck IFRs but offer greater efficiency in reducing evaporation losses and emissions. The double deck design provides additional sealing and stability, making these IFRs suitable for more extensive storage tanks and more demanding applications.
Pontoon IFRs: Pontoon IFRs consist of a series of interconnected pontoons that float on the surface of the stored liquid. The pontoons are typically made of lightweight, corrosion-resistant materials such as aluminum or stainless steel. Pontoon IFRs are highly effective in reducing evaporation losses and can accommodate large variations in liquid level. These IFRs are commonly used in large storage tanks and applications requiring high sealing efficiency. However, tank operators should hire professional tank inspection services provider for assessment of the roof.
Full Contact IFRs: Full contact IFRs, also known as honeycomb IFRs, consist of a series of interconnected cells or compartments that float on the surface of the stored liquid. The cells are filled with a buoyant material such as foam or air, which provides additional buoyancy and stability. Full contact IFRs offer excellent sealing efficiency and are highly effective in reducing evaporation losses and emissions. These IFRs are suitable for large storage tanks and for applications where stringent environmental regulations apply.
Internal Floating Suction IFRs: Internal floating suction (IFS) IFRs are designed to extract liquid from the surface of the stored liquid while maintaining a constant suction depth. These IFRs are equipped with a flexible suction pipe that extends from the roof to the bottom of the tank. The suction pipe is connected to a pump that draws liquid from the surface of the stored liquid. IFS IFRs are commonly used in storage tanks where it is necessary to remove liquid from the surface without disturbing the floating roof.
Storage tank internal floating roofs are essential in reducing evaporation losses and emissions in various industries. By selecting the appropriate type of IFR for a specific application, companies can optimize storage tank performance, minimize environmental impact, and comply with regulatory requirements. Whether using single deck, double deck, pontoon, full contact, or internal floating suction IFRs, it is crucial to consider factors such as tank size, liquid characteristics, operating conditions, and regulatory requirements when designing and installing these critical components.…