Tackling Tank Corrosion: a Comprehensive Guide to Causes, Prevention, and Mitigation

Corrosion is a common issue in all water tanks, as extended use makes these structures vulnerable to rust and degradation. However, water tank corrosion is a problem that can be controlled and minimized, ensuring your structure remains functional. In this article, we will provide you with strategies to prevent water tank corrosion, so get ready to take notes on maintaining the integrity of your structures.

How Corrosion Takes Place

Corrosion occurs when metal deteriorates due to a chemical reaction with its environment. This natural process can cause significant damage to your water tank, leading to considerable costs in addressing the issue. All metals are susceptible to corrosion, especially if they lack a protective coating, which can cause the metal substrate of water tanks to deteriorate and malfunction. The type of metal used and environmental conditions, such as gases that come into contact with the metal, can influence the form and rate of deterioration.

When most or all atoms on a metal surface undergo oxidation, the entire surface is damaged. Most metals are prone to oxidation, meaning they lose electrons to oxygen (and other substances) in the air or water. Oxygen forms an oxide with the metal as it undergoes reduction (gains electrons).

Identifying Corrosion

Water tanks, like many metal structures, are susceptible to rust and decay over time. Even with regular cleaning, micro-aquatic organisms and bacteria can colonize the tank. Cracks, leaks, or cavities in the water-retaining structure create an ideal breeding ground for bacteria. If you notice deterioration in the metal substrate, it indicates corrosion within the water-retaining structure, requiring relining or refurbishment to restore the tank’s functionality.

Why is it Important to Stop Corrosion?

Corrosion leads to significant financial losses for businesses each year, as they face costs for replacing or refurbishing water tanks due to unnoticed corrosion in their water-retaining structures. Furthermore, some businesses may experience water contamination, disrupting tank operations and affecting usability. To mitigate these challenges, it is essential to detect corrosion early and prevent its progression as quickly as possible.

Methods of Prevention

There are several methods to prevent future corrosion in your water-retaining structure. These methods include replacing the water tank, relining, or refurbishing the structure. By using these approaches, you can renew or replace your water tank, ensuring uninterrupted business operations. Typically, these methods involve applying a protective coating to the internal surfaces of the structure. This coating inhibits bacterial growth, thereby preventing corrosion, leaks, and cracks in your tank.

The Advantages of Relining over Costly Replacements

Each prevention method has its own advantages; however, we advocate for relining and refurbishment as the superior option. Tank replacement can be costly and still requires a protective coating for adequate corrosion protection. Relining offers a long-term and effective solution by protecting the tank substrate, thereby reducing the likelihood of bacteria such as Legionella inhabiting the structure. Therefore, if you seek a cost-effective solution, we recommend opting for tank relining for sustained bacteria protection.

Be vigilant for signs of corrosion in your water-retaining structures. If you detect any indications of corrosion in your tanks, explore our tank relining and refurbishment services or contact us promptly!

We offer tried and tested services in Crockett, Grapeland, Kennard, Latexo, Lovelady, Ratcliff, Houston, Texas.

We also offer tried and tested services in Long Beach, and nearby cities, towns, suburbs, and localities such as Lakewood, Rossmoor, Lincoln Village, Seal Beach, Hawaiian Gardens, Los Alamitos, Cypress, Bellflower, Carson, La Palma, Paramount, Cerritos, East Compton, West Carson, Compton, Norwalk, Stanton, Westminster, Lomita, Downey, Lynwood, Rolling Hills Estates, Cudahy, California.

Our friendly and experienced customer service team is here to help you!

Call Tank Inspections Vegas by American Tanks at +1 800 656 0167

Or email at info@tankinspections.vegas

1305 W 11th St #4087 Houston, TX 77008 USA

3711 Long Beach blvd Suite 4057 4th Floor # 1079 Long Beach, CA 90807 USA

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