Mobile-Menu

Maintenance and Inspection Harnessing Robots to Revolutionize Tank Storage

From Margaret Dunn, Portfolio Director at Stocexpo 4 min Reading Time

Related Vendors

Italvacuum, Srl
TRM Filter d.o.o.
Frewitt fabrique de machines SA

The tank storage industry is undergoing a significant transformation as robotics redefines maintenance, inspection, and cleaning. Traditionally, these tasks have relied on human operators entering confined spaces, exposing them to significant health and safety risks while incurring substantial operational downtime costs. Robotics promises to change this paradigm, delivering safer, more efficient, cost-effective solutions.

The guidelines developed by Sprint Robotics for the application of robotics in AGSTs provide a critical framework for ensuring operational quality standards.(Source: Sprint Robotics)
The guidelines developed by Sprint Robotics for the application of robotics in AGSTs provide a critical framework for ensuring operational quality standards.
(Source: Sprint Robotics)

Aboveground storage tanks (AGSTs) have long been essential for storing fuels, chemicals, and other industrial materials. However, maintaining these critical assets presents complex challenges. Internal inspections, often mandated by stringent industry standards, require tanks to be emptied, cleaned, and prepared for human entry. These processes disrupt operations and entail high costs, including lost revenue during shutdowns.

Human entry into tanks carries inherent risks, such as exposure to hazardous substances, dangers in confined spaces, and operational accidents. Despite advances in safety protocols, reliance on manual inspections remains a bottleneck, limiting operational efficiency and increasing the potential for human error.

Related content