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NFPA30 Section-4 Storage Tanks

NFPA30 Section-4 Storage Tanks

NFPA30 Section-4 Storage Tanks

(OP)
Here is the situation:

Client purchased a facility that was shutdown about 5-years ago. There are (3) 66' diameter x 44' tall API-650 Storage tanks that they wish to use to store Ethanol.

This is Class 1D flammable liquid.

The tanks are inside a containment dike and are situated in a straight line. There is only 12 ft between the middle tank and each end tank.

NFPA-30 Section-4 states (paraphsed from table) that: The space between tanks shall be a minimum of 1/6 the sum of the diameters of adjacent tanks.

THis appears to mean that the space between the middle tank and either end tank needs to be 1/6 x 2 Tanks x 66' diameter = 22 ft.

Conclusion is that only the 2 end tanks can be filled at any one time with Ethanol.

QUESTION: Is there any way around this? i.e. installation of other systems like foam, water spray, etc. that would allow for closer spacing? Or am I interpreting the code incorrectly.

P.S. The tanks were originally used to store Sulfuric Acid so there was no need for NFPA-30 in the original intended use of the tanks.

Thanks!
Mike

RE: NFPA30 Section-4 Storage Tanks

Assuming the installation needs to meet NFPA 30, it looks like you are interpreting it correctly.

When going from acid tank to an ethanol tank, check into emergency venting also.

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