Refurbishment of a Final Settlement Tank for Acidic Corrosion Protection
In industrial applications, protecting infrastructure from acidic corrosion is critical for maintaining operational efficiency and ensuring the longevity of essential components. This project in London showcased Total Specialist Maintenance’s (TSM) expertise in refurbishing an old Final Settlement Tank (FST) for a water company, effectively addressing corrosion issues and enhancing the overall performance of the facility.
The Challenge
The client faced significant challenges due to acidic corrosion affecting the scum channel of an aging FST tank. Key requirements included:
- Restoring Structural Integrity: The existing scum channel had suffered from severe corrosion, necessitating a comprehensive assessment and restoration of its structural integrity.
- Preventing Future Corrosion: Ensuring that the refurbished scum channel would withstand future acidic exposure was essential for the long-term performance of the tank and overall operational efficiency.
Why Chemical Resistant Coating?
To combat the effects of acidic exposure, TSM determined that a comprehensive refurbishment and the application of a chemical-resistant coating were necessary. This approach provided several benefits:
- Enhanced Durability: By effectively repairing the scum channel, TSM ensured that the structure could withstand operational stresses and maintain its intended function.
Protection Against Future Acidic Corrosion: The chemical-resistant coating would serve as a robust barrier against corrosive agents, significantly extending the lifespan of the tank and reducing maintenance costs over time.
The Solution: Comprehensive Refurbishment
TSM executed a detailed refurbishment plan that included:
- Mechanical Preparation: Preparing the substrate involved thorough cleaning and profiling to create a mechanical key for the new concrete lining. This step was crucial to ensure optimal adhesion and long-term performance.
- Concrete Lining Installation: The scum channel was refurbished by applying a high-quality concrete repair mortar designed for harsh environments. This repair not only restored the structural integrity but also provided a smooth surface for further treatment.
- Coating Application: A specialised chemical-resistant coating was then applied to the entire scum channel. This coating was formulated to resist acidic attacks, ensuring that the scum channel would remain protected against future corrosion.
- Quality Assurance: Throughout the refurbishment process, TSM implemented strict quality control measures to ensure that all work met industry standards and client specifications. Regular inspections were conducted to verify the integrity of repairs and the effectiveness of the coating application.
Project Management Excellence
TSM’s project management team effectively coordinated all aspects of the refurbishment, ensuring that the work was completed on schedule and within budget. The successful execution of this project not only addressed the client’s immediate corrosion issues but also reinforced TSM’s reputation as a leader in industrial maintenance solutions.
Environmental Considerations
Given the nature of the water industry, TSM prioritised environmentally friendly materials and methods throughout the refurbishment process. The selected chemical-resistant coating was designed to minimise environmental impact while providing superior protection against acidic corrosion.
