Cleaning of Asphalt tank in refinery

[saifkk2000]

Dear All,

We are currently working on cleaning of asphalt tank in a refinery. We are facing the following issues:
1. The layer of asphalt inside the tank is about 4-5 inches.
2. Asphalt at top/surface is dry and hard and easy to remove, but once we remove that dry asphalt under it is high viscous, dense sticky asphalt which is difficult to remove mechanically.
3. I need any good and effective method for removal of this asphalt. If someone has experience, kindly share over here.

Regards,
Khattak

 

[Compositepro]

Use diesel to dissolve the asphalt. Recycle the waste by blending it back with crude oil.

 

[saifkk2000]

Dear
Thank you for your help. I don't want to recycle it as client needs cleaning only. I put diesel but it made asphalt much much sticky and heavily densed and we are facing difficulty removing it with hand tools.

 

[LittleInch]

some alternatives here..

http://www.eptq.com/qandaquestion.aspx?q=154ef6e7-eabe-4a7b-a797-e0aa959e1edd

https://fqechemicals.com/case-histories/tank-cleaning-vacuum-residue-asphalt/

Tank cleaning is a horrible job though and I wish you luck and a safe operation.

Remember - More details = better answers
Also: If you get a response it's polite to respond to it.

 

[IFRs]

I watched a company break it into chunks and cart i tout a door sheet. But, it was cold enough to make it work.
I watched the oil soften trick work but it is messy and hazardous.
I've heard of using steam bayonets to heat and liquefy, then basically shovel it out.
No matter what it's a hard job.
Good luck and please tell us what works for you!