Self-Bunded Fuel Tank Spill Prevention
Double-Walled Containment System
At their core, these tanks feature a double-walled structure—an inner tank that holds the fuel and an outer "bund" (or secondary containment) that acts as a barrier. The gap between the walls, typically 110% of the inner tank's capacity, captures any fuel that might escape from the inner tank due to cracks, corrosion, or seal failures.
This secondary containment eliminates the need for external dikes or pans, ensuring leaks are contained immediately, even in case of severe damage.
Advanced Sealing Systems
Sealing systems are another critical defense. Welds between the inner and outer walls are precision-engineered to be impermeable, while gaskets and fittings (such as fill points and outlet valves) use chemical-resistant materials like nitrile or PTFE.
These materials withstand prolonged exposure to fuel, preventing degradation that could lead to seepage. Many models also include overfill protection devices, such as automatic shutoff valves, which halt fuel delivery once the tank reaches capacity.
Key Spill Prevention Features
- Double-walled construction with secondary containment
- 110% capacity bund for complete leak capture
- Precision welds for impermeable barriers
- Chemical-resistant seals (Nitrile/PTFE)
- Automatic shutoff valves for overfill protection
- High-grade steel or reinforced polymers
- Corrosion-resistant coatings
- Sloped inner floors for leak direction
- Moisture sensors for early detection
- Pressure relief valves for stability
- Secure anchoring systems for mobile setups
- Environmental regulation compliance
Structural Durability
Made from high-grade steel (often galvanized or coated for corrosion resistance) or reinforced polymers, self-bunded tanks resist impacts, rust, and environmental stressors that might compromise single-walled tanks.
Some designs incorporate sloped inner floors that direct any minor leaks toward collection points, where sensors can detect moisture or fuel presence, triggering alarms to alert operators before spills escalate.
Pressure Management
Pressure relief valves maintain stable internal pressure, preventing bursts from thermal expansion
Mobile Security
Secure anchoring systems minimize movement during transport or extreme weather
Environmental Protection
Multi-layered defense protects soil, water, and air from contamination