Oiled sand tank foundation
Oiled sand tank foundation
(OP)
My company specifies a layer of oiled sand under steel tanks. Is this good practice?
If not, then why? and what are the alternatives?
API 650 mentions the use of "clean sand" but does not say anything about "oiled sand".
If not, then why? and what are the alternatives?
API 650 mentions the use of "clean sand" but does not say anything about "oiled sand".





RE: Oiled sand tank foundation
RE: Oiled sand tank foundation
Compacted aggregate base is an acceptable alternate, as long as it doesn't have any material in it that would corrode the tank bottom (happened to us).
Asphalt is another alternate. Contractors work with it all the time, it can be shaped such that the floor slopes can be maintained, it shouldn't be corrosive and the price isn't a big objection. But I can't remember ever using it, just suggesting it.
RE: Oiled sand tank foundation
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RE: Oiled sand tank foundation
RE: Oiled sand tank foundation
You are correct. AWWA D-100 specifies oiled sand foundations and they have been used for many years. As far as I know there have been no major problems with them for steel water tanks but others may know some reason not to use them. I've spec'ed them several times myself and base my remarks on only this limited experience.
Others, especially steel tank providers, will have much more experience to draw on.
good luck