3 replies to this topic

[Yasser M. Abd Al-Rahman]

Dear all,

 

I am wondering which is more safe Spherical or Horizontal Tanks for LPG. I read that horizontal is more safe where the load is being evenly distributed but spherical is more exposed to supports failure especially in case of earthquake such as happened in Japan. Please advise

 

Regards,

 

Yasser

[Bobby Strain]

The choice is usually made based on cost. Larger volumes tend to favor spheres. Location will also affect cost since most spheres are assembled onsite, usually from fabricated pieces. If one is really concerned, the horizontal tanks are easily covered with earth, removing the possibility of exposure to fire.

 

Bobby

[fallah]

Yasser,

 

1- A spherical tank is more expensive than a horizontal one in manufacturing standpoint but can handle more pressure than horizontal one; then a trade of should be made for selection...

 

2- A spherical tank is usually used for storing an intermediate or non finished LPG product while a horizontal one or bullet will normally be considered for storing pure or finished LPG product...

 

3- A spherical tank is normally erected in the field while a horizontal one or bullet can be fabricated in the shop...

[Chemitofreak]

My two cents in addition to the aforementioned replies:

 

We can provide mounding for horizontal tanks (i.e. bullets). Mounding is intrinsically safe design and eradicates the probability of BLEVE in LPG. Also, the LPG storage is kept in disguise from sabotage by miscreants.