Steel water storage tanks are some of the most commonly used receptacles for storing large quantities of potable water; however, corrosion engineers also find them to be highly susceptible to various types of corrosion.

Though corrosion engineering focuses on developing ways to resolve the issue of corrosion and promote the longevity of steel storage tanks, the solution is two-fold.

Corrosion engineering services work continuously to design tanks that are less susceptible to corrosion, while also developing new and better corrosion prevention methods.

These are recommended ways that owners of steel water storage tanks can slow down the effects of corrosion and prolong the lives of their vessels.

1. Choose Premier Steel Components

An extremely significant factor that corrosion engineers highlight for reducing the impact of corrosion on water storage tanks is choosing superior materials.

Stainless steel tanks are the least corrosive, but they can be prohibitively expensive for massive tanks.

High-grade carbon steel and galvanized are also used as they are more affordable, but corrosion engineering experts point out that they require extra attention toward corrosion prevention.

Stainless steel or nickel-plated fasteners are also recommended when corrosion is an issue, as they are more durable against it.

2. Use Quality Coatings and Linings

Corrosion engineering services recommend that all steel tanks be periodically painted in a durable corrosion-resistant interior coating to cover the metal and prevent chemical reactions between it and tank contents.

Specialized tank linings, which act similarly to painted-on coatings, are also available for this purpose.

3. Consider Cathodic Protection

Galvanic cathodic protection is a recommended protective technique used by corrosion engineers to prevent the deterioration of some steel water storage tanks by charging the metal to create an anode.

Using this technique, a secondary metal is connected to the steel, which oxidizes in lieu of the steel itself when a charge is introduced to create the anode.

4. Use Corrosion Inhibitors Where Applicable

Another option recommended by corrosion engineering services in certain situations is the application of corrosion inhibitors.

Liquid inhibitors and other compounds applied to vulnerable surfaces on steel tanks work by dissolving oxygen within the tank contents to reduce the chemical reaction it has with the oxidizing metal.

These inhibitors can be applied to tank interiors as well as susceptible exterior locations like tank chimes, chime rings, sleeve systems, and other metal components.

5. Keep Up With Routine Inspections and Maintenance

Finally, the most important recommendation from corrosion engineering professionals for preventing or reducing corrosion to steel water storage tanks is to arrange frequent inspections by a qualified service, then follow through with any suggested maintenance or repairs.

The top way to keep corrosion of all types under control is to frequently assess the condition of the tank and then provide the solutions required to maintain that condition.

Good Corrosion Prevention Prolongs Steel Water Tanks Service Life

Protecting costly water storage tanks from deadly corrosion involves a multi-pronged effort.

Corrosion engineers recommend investing in a durable tank from the start to take advantage of natural corrosion-resistance properties.

Then companies should invest in additional protective methods developed by corrosion engineering services including coatings, liners, inhibitors, and cathodic protection as needed.

Most significantly, corrosion engineering experts stress regular maintenance and frequent inspections for keeping track of corrosion and handling repairs and maintenance as needed.

With careful attention to this essential detail, tank owners can prolong the usefulness of these vessels as much as possible!