Project Overview
Engineering inspection and evaluation of fuel storage and distribution systems within a mining operation.
The project included mechanical inspection, ultrasonic thickness measurement, electrical system evaluation, safety compliance verification, and operational assessment of fuel storage infrastructure.
The objective was to ensure structural integrity, electrical safety, regulatory compliance, and reliable operation of the fuel storage and distribution system.
Industry
Mining Infrastructure – Fuel Storage and Distribution Systems
Infrastructure Evaluated
The project covered the inspection and evaluation of:
Aboveground horizontal fuel storage tanks
Tank shells, bottoms, and structural components
Fuel distribution and transfer systems
Electrical systems associated with tanks
Safety and signaling systems
Fuel storage and handling areas
Standards Applied
The inspection activities followed internationally recognized engineering standards for non-destructive testing, equipment inspection and asset integrity evaluation.
API 653 – Tank Inspection, Repair, Alteration and Reconstruction
Used for evaluating the structural integrity, corrosion conditions, and overall mechanical reliability of storage tanks.
API 570 – Piping Inspection Code
Applied to assess piping systems connected to fuel storage tanks and ensure safe product transfer.
NFPA 30 – Flammable and Combustible Liquids Code
Used to verify compliance of fuel storage systems with fire safety and handling requirements.
Technical Scope
The project included several inspection and evaluation activities aimed at determining equipment condition and structural integrity.
Tank Visual Inspection (VT)
Evaluation of corrosion, coating condition, structural deformation, and general integrity of tank components.
Ultrasonic Thickness Measurement (UT)
Measurement of wall thickness across multiple points to assess material loss and remaining service life.
Safety and Signaling System Inspection
Verification and replacement assessment of NFPA labeling, hazard identification signage, and safety markings for fuel storage areas.
Technical Reporting and Data Collection
Compilation of inspection data, photographic records, measurements, and compliance evaluation into structured technical reports.
Electrical System Inspection and Testing
Inspection and evaluation of electrical components, including wiring, grounding systems, and protective devices to ensure operational safety and compliance.
Fuel System Compliance Inspection (HSE)
Evaluation of compliance with environmental, safety, and operational regulations for fuel storage and handling systems.
Key Findings
The inspection activities provided critical insights into the structural condition, electrical systems performance and safety compliance of the fuel storage infrastructure, supporting data-driven decisions for maintenance and risk mitigation.
Structural Condition
Tanks presented acceptable structural integrity with localized corrosion in specific areas requiring monitoring.
Thickness Evaluation
Ultrasonic measurements confirmed adequate remaining thickness and no critical material loss.
Electrical System Condition
Electrical systems were operational; however, minor improvements were identified in grounding and protective elements.
Safety Compliance
Safety signage and labeling required updates to meet current standards and improve hazard communication.
Regulatory Compliance
The fuel system generally complied with applicable regulations, with opportunities for improvement in safety and environmental controls.
Maintenance Recommendations
Preventive maintenance actions were defined to enhance system reliability and long-term integrity.
Project Outcome
The project provided a comprehensive evaluation of mechanical, electrical, and safety conditions of the fuel storage system.
Deliverables included:
Detailed inspection reports
Thickness measurement records
Electrical evaluation results
Compliance assessment
Engineering recommendations for maintenance and risk mitigation
Related Services
Mechanical Integrity Consulting
Consulting and inspection services supporting the
Asset Integrity Management
Engineering support for mining infrastructure
Tank Inspection Services
Technical consulting and inspection services for fuel
Piping Inspection
Asset integrity consulting for industrial processing
Non-Destructive Inspection
Engineering services supporting the integrity
Industrial Infrastructure Inspection
Engineering consulting focused on infrastructure reliability,