EQUIPMENT
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reference whilst discussing issues within the plant, again generally eliminating the need to actually visit the area in question. There are other benefits yet to be exploited i.e. training and presentations. However, 3D laser scanning does not totally negate the need to physically visit the plant.” Graham Boxer, managing director of
Advanced 3D Laser Solutions, explains further: “The oil products storage sector has now started to appreciate the benefits of our 3D laser scanning technology and in particular our applications for pipework modelling and storage tank analysis. Our ability to prepare an inexpensive detailed ‘in-service’ health check on our customers’ tanks enables them to decide where they should concentrate their inspection budget on localised material thickness analysis. “This alternative approach offers our clients significant savings,” he continues. “Why spend £10,000 to 15,000 on a full tank material thickness study when a health check for around £3,000 can establish where specialist analysis should be concentrated? The rate at which our tank 3D laser scanning can be achieved means that the study can be completed before influencing factors change, such as temperature or tank contents. The final reports are incredibly versatile in terms of how they can be utilised, including assisting in compliance with industry standards and regulations.”
HOW IT WORKS In an ongoing project for a major UK oil refinery, Advanced 3D Laser Solutions is providing this service in support of the client’s inspection programme in accordance with API 653 to check compliance with the requirements of the Control of Major Accident Hazards (COMAH) Regulations. The company has been commissioned to scan 120 storage tanks, assessing tank settlement, tank shell verticality at selected points (determined by EEMUA guidelines), shell plate radial
LASER SURVEYING (ABOVE) CAN IDENTIFY THE SMALLEST TANK DEFORMATION AND DISPLAY THE INFORMATION TO ASSIST IN ENGINEERING PLANNING (LEFT)
deflection and tank settlement. Scan files will also be used to calculate bund volumes. The company’s technical director, Lewis
Boxer, explains the scanning process: “Following the scanning of the tanks, the files are registered and imported into our analysis software. Data including stairs, pipework and manways, not associated with the tank analysis, are then removed from the file. The analysis process is able to rationalise overlaps in scan data as it creates a deviation map. “Selected radial cuts and later segmental
cuts prepare the file for reporting radial and vertical alignment. Further analysis on the tank skirt is then processed to prepare a tank settlement report and, finally, captured data on surrounding bunds is processed to calculate overall bund volumes.” Individual 3D laser scans can be combined
to produce a ‘point cloud’ file, giving the clienta clear view of shell verticality, shell plate radial deflection, tank settlement and bottom edge differential settlement. Consequently, as well as providing cut-through views of the tank from both the X and Y axis, 3D laser scanning eliminates the need for ‘Dumpy level’ and ‘Total station’ methods. Furthermore, bottom edge differential
settlement allows scanning from within the tank, determining localised movement of the tank floor plate. Internal structural data, including floating roof drainage lines
and other appurtenances, can also be scanned and presented separately to clients.
WHERE TO NEXT Advanced 3D Laser Solutions have recently partnered with UK non-destructive testing company Viking Inspection to provide its services alongside EEMUA 159 and API 653 inspections. In another ongoing initiative, Advanced 3D
Laser Solutions is now looking at differential settlement between tank and connected piping where additional bending moments and loads (not considered in the original design) are imparted. This requires Advanced 3D Laser Solutions to use its pipework modelling techniques on local lines. The resulting modelled pipework is offered for structural analysis, to decide where additional support or indeed expansion joints or bellows are necessary. Advanced 3D Laser Solutions, based
in Essex, UK, was founded in the 1970s to develop and market laser-based surveying services for a wide range of process, manufacturing and construction industries. Its client base now includes all the major oil refining and distribution companies in the UK, as well as gas, pharmaceutical and detergent manufacturers. Further information can be found at
www.lasersurveying.com. HCB
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