Tank Tightness Diagnostics
Tank diagnostics using UV and penetrant methods reveal microcracks and any unwanted biofilm.
Tank diagnostics using UV and penetrant methods reveal microcracks and any unwanted biofilm.
We offer two types of tests – a penetrant leak test and a UV test for the presence of biofilm.
The tank must be clean, dry, and degreased before the test.
The tank penetration test consists of applying a special penetrant solution to the tank wall followed by a thorough inspection. The focus is on identifying all areas where the penetrant fluid adheres or seeps through, such as cracks, deep pores, weld damage, or other serious defects. Conversely, areas where no penetrant adherence or leakage occurs are not considered serious damage. Such surface imperfections may be numerous in the equipment and typically include pits, scratches, or surface corrosion without significant material deformation.
After spraying the penetrant onto the tank wall, the substance is left to act for the required time (usually approx. 30–45 minutes). This is followed by rinsing with water and drying of the tank.
Before entering the tank, we measure the air quality inside – the measuring device is lowered all the way to the bottom of the tank! The measuring equipment is attached to the technician’s harness, the harness is checked, and an evacuation procedure is agreed upon in case the technician needs to be removed from the tank. We follow all other safety regulations, especially those related to working at heights.
Tank detection is performed by a detailed inspection of the material surface under UV light, with the technician carrying out the inspection from inside the tank if its dimensions allow. In case entry is physically impossible, the inspection is carried out through the access opening (applies only to very small tanks).
An integral part of our test is photographic documentation. Findings are photographed under both UV and normal light. The minimum scope of documentation includes the nameplate, and photos of the tank from the outside and inside.
The tank must be clean, dry, and degreased before the test.
The biofilm tank test consists of detecting foreign particles or impurities that fluoresce under UV light. Our goal is not to identify the type of detected substance, but only to confirm its presence and location, if any. Any swabs are to be taken by the client based on our on-site findings or the issued report. Whether it is biological or other contamination must be verified by a laboratory test.
In general, our technicians do not enter the tank. If the situation requires it – for example, if the tank contains any type of mixing device or if the tank is very tall – the technician’s entry into the tank is necessary. In such a case, it is the client’s responsibility to ensure the technician’s safety, i.e., primarily to provide supervision at the workplace so that in the event of an unexpected situation, the technician’s absolute safety and potential rescue/evacuation from the tank are guaranteed. A C+C servis technician is always equipped with all necessary safety devices, such as a CO2 detector, safety harness, or rescue equipment.
An integral part of our test is photo documentation. Findings are photographed under UV light as well as in normal light. The minimum scope of documentation includes the label, an external photo of the tank, and an internal photo.