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Tank-to-tank hydrocarbon product transfer

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Elak2010

Mechanical
May 18, 2015
2
What is the best pump that can be used to transfer flammable hydrocarbon (Kerosene) from one storage tank to another? This is to empty the tank for safe entry. Both tanks have tank-to-tank transfer pump, however there is (un-pumpable) quantity that can’t be transferred through which about 6000 barrels. We plan to lower the product level below tank manway, then use a pump to transfer the product. We used to use dewatering vacuum pump in the past, but safety department does not allow this as it is not designed for flammable products. Also vacuum trucks are not allowed to enter tank dike area for safety reasons. I appreciate experts’ advice and experiences in such plant operations.
 
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Air operated double diaphragm pumps are useful for this type of operation. A vacuum truck designed to handle flammables would best. The truck stays outside the dike.
 
Thanks a lot Compositepro for quick reply, this will help me to start with. As far as I know, diaphragm pumps are suitable for low flow transfer, am I right? 6000 barrels I guess need bigger pump to transfer out whole quantity within 48 hours.
 
"I guess need bigger pump to transfer out whole quantity within 48 hours." You can get AODs for that flow but the pressure is important, too. And the energy consumption is pretty high but if this is an intermittend operation you'll be find with an AOD, especially because these pumps are not that expensive.
 
What's wrong with a submersible pump?

Just drop it in connected to a flexible pipe and off you go.

Or throw in a hose and use a PCP pump on a skid. They won't mind any rubbish in the bottom of the tank.

Remember - More details = better answers
Also: If you get a response it's polite to respond to it.
 
As a reminder kerosene is a combustible liquid per NFPA
 
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