The Advantages of Double Wall Aboveground and Underground Storage Tanks and Interstitial Sensors
If you install a newly built underground or aboveground storage tank (UST or AST) today, the tank is likely to be double-walled with sensors in the interstitial space. These features work together to alert you of a leak and allow you to remedy the situation before the contents escape the tank and contaminate your property. If your tank is 20 years old, on the other hand, it probably lacks both of these attributes. In that case, you won’t get any notice that the tank is about to fail until it actually does, and you’ll not have any opportunity to contain the spill before it leaches into the groundwater.
Read on for more information about the advantages today’s modern double wall USTs and ASTs with interstitial sensors provide. For help with UST installation, removal, lining and coating, compliance testing, or other services in New Jersey and Florida, Lutz Companies are here to meet your needs with the expertise and reputation built from over 100 years in the storage tank business.
Enhanced Environmental Safety: Prevention of Leaks and Spills
One of the primary concerns with storage tanks, particularly those containing hazardous materials, is the risk of leaks and spills. Double-wall ASTs and USTs provide an added layer of protection. The design includes an inner tank for storing the liquid and an outer wall that acts as a secondary containment. This structure significantly reduces the risk of the contents seeping into the environment, thereby safeguarding against soil and water contamination.
Detection of Potential Issues
Interstitial sensors, placed in the space between the inner and outer walls of double-wall tanks, play a crucial role in environmental protection. These sensors can detect any fuel or other liquid in the interstitial space, signaling a potential leak or breach in the primary tank. Early detection allows for prompt corrective actions, minimizing environmental impact and potential regulatory violations.
Compliance with Regulations
In many jurisdictions, environmental regulations are becoming increasingly stringent, particularly concerning underground storage tanks (USTs) due to their potential for undetected leaks and soil contamination. Double-wall tanks, in contrast, offer greater ease in inspection and maintenance, thereby helping businesses comply with regulatory standards more effectively. The incorporation of interstitial sensors further enhances compliance, as they provide continuous monitoring and can be integrated into automated reporting systems.
Operational Advantages: Ease of Inspection and Maintenance
Unlike USTs, Aboveground Storage Tanks offer easier access for inspection and maintenance. This accessibility not only simplifies routine checks but also reduces maintenance costs. The clear visibility of ASTs allows for quicker identification of issues such as corrosion or damage, ensuring that they are addressed promptly. When USTs are preferred, the added benefits of double walls and interstitial sensors provide peace of mind and valuable benefits.
Long-term Cost Savings
While the initial investment in double-wall ASTs or USTs with interstitial sensors might be higher than single-wall tanks, the long-term cost savings are significant. These savings come from reduced environmental clean-up costs, lower insurance premiums due to decreased risks, and potential avoidance of fines related to regulatory non-compliance.
Versatility and Scalability
Double-wall ASTs and USTs are versatile and can be used for various applications, including petroleum storage, chemical storage, and waste oil storage. They can be customized to meet specific needs, such as varying capacities and configurations. This scalability is particularly beneficial for growing businesses that require flexibility in their storage solutions.
Contact Lutz Today for Help With USTs and ASTs in Florida and New Jersey
For businesses that require the storage of liquids, particularly those that are hazardous, the selection of the right storage tank is crucial. Double wall storage tanks, equipped with interstitial sensors, offer a blend of environmental safety, regulatory compliance, operational efficiency, and long-term cost-effectiveness. These tanks represent a forward-thinking solution for modern storage needs, aligning with environmental safety standards and operational best practices.
If your property has an underground or above-ground fuel tank for motor fuels or an emergency generator, contact Lutz Petroleum Equipment Installation in Florida at 954-971-5222 or Herbert Lutz Co., Inc. in New Jersey at 908-862-8888 to safeguard your property, protect the environment and guard against potential significant remediation costs. We can assess your specific needs and provide solutions that best suit your operational requirements and regulatory obligations.
