AWWA D103 Bolted Tank Lifespan

[tknight99]

I am evaluating different tank design standards for a potable water storage tank application. From what I've read it appears bolted tanks are more cost-effective than welded tanks, but that they have a shorter expected lifespan (30-40 years).

I was wondering if anyone here has any experience with older bolted tanks and could provide some insight into what causes them to be deemed "end-of-life". I would have thought that as long as the interior epoxy coating was maintained in good condition, bolted tanks would essentially have the same life as a welded tank.

Obviously bolted tanks have the potential to leak from the panel seams, but it appears there are products on the market that can be used to tighten / inject sealant into the leaking area without requiring draining of tank.

 

[JStephen]

I wasn't aware that the interior coatings were maintained in the first place.

 

[LittleInch]

The sealing material tends to age eventually and with potential for movement / thermal strain / wind etc this eventually leads to leaks. Leaks tend to cause corrosion and corrosion of bolts and bolt holes is difficult to arrest completely.

But there are some easily 100 years old around.

Remember - More details = better answers
Also: If you get a response it's polite to respond to it.

 

[sdz]

Some bolted tanks have an internal liner so sealing of the bolted joints is not an issue. The design life is dependent on environmental conditions; a tank in an arid environment can be expected to last a lot longer than one near the ocean and in the spray zone.





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[IFRs]

Bolted tanks are so new-fangled! I work on riveted tanks all the time, they still hold petroleum...