The history and evolution of double-walled steel tanks are closely aligned with the search for effective corrosion prevention systems to address the growing awareness of groundwater pollution.
The popularity of storing hydrocarbon underground grew from early 1930 driven mainly by safety and aesthetics.
At this time environmental concerns were not a significant concern and the systems for protecting tanks from corrosion were rudimentary including coating tanks in Bitumen which delivered acceptable results on above-ground installations but failed quickly once buried.
Over time concern over environmental damage caused by leaking tanks grew, German engineers in the early 1970s developed a system that allowed the efficient manufacture of underground tanks, a system to constantly monitor the integrity of the tanks, and a robust coating that protects the outer skin of the tank from corrosion.
These developments were eventually formalised into a code of practice which went on to form the basis for the European Norm Standard 12285-1
Today all reputable underground tank manufacturers only make underground (12285-1) and above-ground (12285-2) tanks that comply with this standard.
The biggest environmental risk any Underground Storage Tank (UST) must address is the risk of contamination and pollution of surrounding groundwater.
We ensure all of our tanks:
More detailed technical information on how to install an underground storage tank, pipes and related equipment is available from the APEA Blue Book
You should prepare and be able to show in writing that you:
The biggest environmental risk any Underground Storage Tank (UST) must address is the risk of contamination and pollution of surrounding groundwater.
