Study of tank wall state using surface laser scanning

Abstract

The oil and oil refining industries commonly uses vertical steel tanks for the safe storage of crude oil and petroleum products. However, the operation of these tanks comes with risks such as: corrosion, mechanical damage, and non-uniform deformation can result in significant failures with serious environmental and economic consequences. For this reason, regular monitoring of tank technical state is especially important. Early detection of deviations from design parameters, which is possible thanks to monitoring, can help prevent accidents. This paper examines the use of surface laser scanning technology is a method for inspecting tank walls. This method involves creating a 3D digital model of the tank, analyzing its stress-strain state, and identifying deviations from its original geometry. The use of a 3D scanner ensures high measurement accuracy and automates the data collection process. The study's results indicate that surface laser scanning is an effective tool for detecting deformations in tank walls and for monitoring their progression over time. Compared to traditional visual and dimensional inspection methods, this technology provides a more comprehensive assessment of the technical condition of the tanks. This approach reduces diagnostic costs and improves the safety and reliability of tank operations. The practical value of this study lies in the potential integration of surface laser scanning technology into the routine monitoring system of tank farms. This integration can enhance safety and extend the service life of oil storage facilities.