SCOPE

This document provides information on maintenance of asphalt storage tanks produced by Heatec. It applies to tanks that incorporate heating coils and to tanks that include optional equipment such as mixers, gauge boards and radar level sensors. The information applies to both vertical and horizontal tanks, although vertical tanks are featured (Fig. 1).

OTHER PUBLICATIONS

We refer to other publications for additional information on components used on Heatec tanks. You should obtain those publications and follow their recommendations where applicable.

In most cases those publications are included in the packet of documents furnished with your tanks. You can also find all of the Heatec Tec-Notes and other Heatec documents on the Heatec web site www.heatec.com. Likewise, you can find publications published by manufacturers of various components on their web sites.

Following is a list of publications that contain information you may need in addition to this document:

• How to prevent leaks in pipe joints at HMA plants. Heatec Tec-Note 6-04-126

• Setting Honeywell controllers used with Heatec vertical asphalt tanks. Heatec Tec-Note 5-04-120

• Recalibrating UE controllers. Heatec News, April and May 2003

• Resun valves-Sealant Injection Equipment and Recommended Maintenance Procedures: www.rmenergy.com.

• Resun valves-sealant specifications

• OSHA regulations:

  Subpart J-General Environmental Controls

  29 CFR PART 1910.146-Permit-Required Confined Space

  29 CFR PART 1910.147-The control of hazardous energy (lockout/tagout)

  Subpart H-Hazardous Materials

  9 CFR PART 1910.119(k)-Hot Work Permit

  Subpart Q-Welding, Cutting and Brazing

  29 CFR PART 1910.252-General Requirements

SAFETY

In order for you to safely work on asphalt tanks you must adhere strictly to OSHA regulations that apply to working at heights, working in confined spaces and performing hot work. These regulations are listed above.

PROPER MAINTENANCE IS ESSENTIAL

You should not overlook the need to perform periodic maintenance on asphalt tanks. Failure to properly maintain an asphalt tank can cause any or all of the following things to happen:

• Asphalt may overflow when the tank is being filled

• Operators may unintentionally run out of asphalt

• The tank may collapse or rupture

• The heating coils may coke over and reduce heat transfer

• Operators may get false level indications from gauge boards and/or radar

Proper maintenance is preventive maintenance-not fixing problems after they occur. On plants that shut down for the winter or for annual maintenance, certain maintenance work should be done before the plant is put back into operation. Likewise, after the plant is back in operation, certain tasks should be done on a regular basis (at least monthly).