Lightning Protection for Storage Tanks
Comprehensive safety measures to protect storage facilities from lightning strikes and electrostatic hazards
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1
Appropriate Layout of External Lightning Protection Devices
Based on the lightning activity intensity of the area where the tank is located, deploy appropriate external lightning protection facilities to ensure comprehensive coverage of the top and surrounding area of the tank.
Material Requirements: The materials of the lightning protection devices must have good conductivity and corrosion resistance, and be reliably connected to the tank's metal structure to form a complete lightning protection system.Simultaneously, maintain a safe distance between the lightning protection devices and the tank to avoid discharge phenomena caused by excessive proximity, which could affect tank safety.
- Assess local lightning activity frequency and intensity
- Ensure complete coverage of tank and surrounding area
- Verify proper grounding and bonding connections
- Maintain safe separation distances between components
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2
Internal Lightning Protection and Static Electricity Protection
Strengthen static electricity discharge both inside and outside the tank. Install static grounding devices on the inlet and outlet pipes to ensure that static electricity generated during material transportation can be discharged in a timely manner.
Equipotential Bonding: Must be performed on tank metal components, pipe interfaces, and other parts to reduce potential differences and prevent high-voltage breakdown of equipment caused by lightning induction.Critical Inspection Point: Regularly inspect the insulating components inside the tank to prevent static electricity accumulation due to insulation aging, which increases the risk of lightning strikes.- Install static grounding on all transfer piping
- Perform equipotential bonding on all metal components
- Regularly inspect and test insulation integrity
- Monitor for static accumulation during operations
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3
Regular Inspection and Maintenance of Lightning Protection Facilities
Conduct regular comprehensive inspections of lightning protection devices, checking for rust, breakage, loosening, etc., in components such as lightning rods, down conductors, and grounding devices.
Testing Requirements: Test the grounding resistance value to ensure it meets relevant standards. If the resistance value exceeds the standard, take corrective measures such as adding grounding electrodes.Repair or replace any problematic components promptly. Maintain inspection records to track the operational status of the facilities and provide a basis for subsequent maintenance.
- Inspect for corrosion, damage, or loose connections
- Test grounding resistance regularly (at least annually)
- Implement corrective measures for non-compliant readings
- Maintain comprehensive inspection and maintenance records
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4
Emergency Response to Thunderstorms
Before a thunderstorm, stop all feeding and discharging operations in the tank, close relevant valves, and disconnect non-essential power supplies connected to the tank.
Safety Protocol: Assign dedicated personnel to patrol the area around the tank, prohibiting personnel from approaching or lingering nearby to avoid direct lightning strikes or induced lightning damage.Develop a lightning disaster emergency plan, clearly defining emergency response procedures and personnel responsibilities, and conduct regular drills to ensure a rapid and effective response to sudden lightning disasters and minimize losses.
- Establish clear shutdown procedures before storms
- Implement restricted access zones during lightning activity
- Develop and regularly update emergency response plans
- Conduct regular emergency drills with all personnel