Although crude oil has not traditionally been seen as a challenging area, the advent of unconventional oil has heightened the need for coatings resistant to temperature and very sour oils.

Corrosion challenges for crude oil storage

Crude oil tanks are most commonly floating roof tanks, some have a false roof in addition to reduce loss of light fractions due to heat etc., but the challenges remain the same. There are several different approaches to coating such tanks. In principle the coating is used to protect the steel against corrosion in the water phase at the bottom of the tank. This can be quite sour and aggressive and if heating is involved any corrosion starting will be accelerated.
 
Other areas of concern may be wear and tear on the rubber seal of the roof which can be reduced by coating the tank sides. Or the effect of Sulphate Reducing Bacteria (SRBs) on the tank floor which will need special attention – for help please contact Jotun for a tailored solution.

HPI brochure
Tank Linings for Industry brochure

Brands for crude oil storage

Tankguard brand