Storage tank design 1

[isik]

I am trying to design a benzene storage tank and dont know the diameter to height ratio for a benzene storage tank. Does anyone know a related net site about that situation.
Best regards.

 

[MJCronin]

isik,

The diameter to shell ratio does not depend (directly) on the liquid stored. No guideline exists that says for XXX use a diameter and shell length of "YYY".

The selection of tank diameter, shell length and style depends mostly on the site area, flash point, quantity stored and vapor pressure at storage temperature.

Flat bottomed tanks are the most economical, but good to only about 2.5 psig (API-650). Diameter to shell side ratios are typically 0.8 to about 2.0 (although tanks built with ratios of .5 up to about 3.2 are not uncommon)

With additional bracing and other design considerations, the rules of API-620 can be used for a higher vapor pressure tank. You can also store high VP liquids in a more expensive horizontal tank with elliptical or "ASME F&D" heads. These tanks are typically supported on two concrete "saddles"

A major tank design consideration is the "flash point" of the liquid; insofar as if your facility is governed by the rules of NFPA-30, the flashpoint will affect the tank location, distance to the site boundary, distance to other tanks etc. Virtually all tanks located in the US require adherance to NFPA-30. The site insurace carrier may also have a say in this.

Also, consider the venting of the tank and the need for secondary containment or a scrubber.(Benzene is a carcenogen !!)

How will the liquid level be gauged ? Will this tank be used for any other purposes? ( what should the design specific gravity be for the tank ? These, and many other questions are very important in initial project scope and tank design.

Get your cheap boss to pay attention to the project instead of his own glory and have him purchase some reference books and standards !!!

Have him purchase for you a superb book........... it should be called "TANKS-101"....

The book is titled "Aboveground Storage Tanks" by Phil Myers (MCGraw Hill-1997) Check with AMAZON....... about $100

It is a superb text, will answer all of your tank questions and is money well spent......

Good Luck

MJC