A Concise Guide to Crack Treatment in Natural Gas Storage Tanks

I. Causes of Cracks

Welding problem ‌ : welding too fast/too slow, and hydrogen cracks caused by the electrode not being dried
Material defect ‌ : Poor quality of steel or long-term corrosion
Stress concentration ‌ : unreasonable structural design or overpressure operation

LNG Tank

Ii. Simple Processing Steps

Stop immediately ‌ : close the valve and evacuate people

Preliminary assessment ‌ :
Surface crack: Repair welding after grinding
Deep cracks: Professional welding repair
Penetrating crack: Parts need to be replaced

Professional inspection ‌ :
Magnetic particle detection of surface cracks
Ultrasonic detection of internal defects

Stress test ‌ : perform a 1.25 times stress test after repair

Iii. Preventive Measures

Regular inspection ‌ : annual comprehensive inspection, with a focus on weld seams

Standard operation ‌ :
Keep the pressure within a safe range
Avoid drastic changes in temperature

Materials management ‌ :
Use high-quality steel
The welding rods are strictly dried

Maintenance record ‌ : Establish a crack repair file

LNG Tank

Iv. Precautions

Maintenance under pressure is strictly prohibited
Professional acceptance is required after repair
Report any cracks immediately upon discovery

Note: This guide is applicable to conventional crack treatment.