MIL-HDBK-1130
Another point to consider when inactivating petroleum
storage tanks is the use of cathodic protection. For tanks so
equipped, the cathodic protection system should be inspected
for proper operation and repaired if necessary. For tanks not
equipped with cathodic protection systems, the activity may
investigate the economic trade-offs of installing those systems
at inactivation versus the associated caretaker maintenance
costs and various environmental protection concerns.
b)
Storage Tanks. Tanks should be emptied and cleaned internally
in accordance with the applicable requirements of MO-230. If
organic growth within the tank is a problem, a copper sulphite
solution (1 part copper sulphite to 3 million parts water) may
be used to provide water ballast and to discourage organic
growth. A warning sign should be placed on the tank to
indicate what it contains and whether it has contained leaded
gasoline or other poisonous liquids or gases.
Above-Ground Tanks. With the exception of fuel oil tanks,
(1)
the unpainted interior surfaces of steel tanks should be
coated after cleaning with preservative lubricating oil,
and the interiors of fuel oil tanks should be treated with
corrosion-preventive compound. Vents on lubricating oil
tanks should be closed; vents on other tanks should be
open. Tanks subject to high winds should be partially
filled with water to prevent overturning except when there
is the possibility of water freezing and rupturing the
tanks. Liquid kerosene may be used for ballast if
freezing temperature is a problem. Fuel oil tanks should
be ballasted with fuel oil. Warning signs should clearly
indicate the flammable contents.
(2)
Underground Metal Tanks. Underground metal tanks,
including water-displacement gasoline storage tanks,
should be emptied, made gas-free, and cleaned properly.
Tanks insufficiently anchored against flotation should be
partially filled with water to prevent buoyancy. Where
the danger of the water freezing exists, adequate
safeguards should be provided. When a tank is to be
abandoned in place, water should be removed, and the tank
filled with sand. Other tanks should be cleaned, filled
with oil, and marked as indicated for tanks aboveground in
para. 2.3.l.2.b.l. Vent lines on underground tanks should
be left open and be adequately screened; all other
openings in tanks should be tightly capped or plugged
after removal of equipment.
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