Storage of Glacial Acetic Acid?

[luckyme1028]

Is there a problem with storing glacial acetic acid above it's flash point (103 F)? We have a tank that we keep AA in with a steam jacket to keep it above the freezing point (~56 F)but sometimes the steam makes the temperature higher (once it was discovered at 123 F).

Someone has suggested that we use a temperature control loop on the steam to keep the temperature constant, but my question is: Is this really necessary? We store other products above their flash points.

Our tank has a vent to the flare, so I'm not concerned about a lot of vapor causing an over-pressure of the tank.

 

[tickle]

The storage of liquids above their flash point is not a problem, think of petrol, methanol etc. You will also need to look at any changes in corrosion at elevated temperatures.

The requirment for a temperature control loop needs to be considered fully. A risk analysis needs to be undertaken. One question that springs to my mind is that the acid has got to 123F, could it get higher? Is the tank, pipework and the process able to withstand temperature variations? It may be worth considering a high temperature shutdown on the tank contents.