Secure Chemical Logistics with Modern Measurement Technology
Where large quantities of hazardous substances such as solvents or fuels are stored, particularly high demands are placed on safety, environmental compatibility, and efficiency. A current everyday example shows how these requirements can be met with the help of sophisticated
Chemical Tank Farm with Two Million Liters Storage Capacity
The new facility offers space for approximately two million liters of chemicals, distributed among 22 above-ground storage tanks housed across several floors in a building complex. The total of 40 tank chambers each have a capacity of 40,000 to 100,000 liters. The construction had to meet special requirements, for example, regarding earthquake safety and integration into the existing operational structure.
A central element is the 15,000-liter mixing vessel, where individual solvent mixtures can be produced according to customer requirements. Filling is automated into various container sizes – from small canisters to IBC containers. The high level of automation reduces manual intervention and ensures smooth, safe operation.
Optimized Logistics in Chemical Tank Farm Reduces Emissions
The new facility also sets standards in terms of logistics. While previously numerous internal trips between the storage area and the vehicle weighbridge were necessary, tank trucks can now be loaded and unloaded directly at two calibrated floor scales. This saves time, reduces energy consumption, and significantly lowers emissions on the company premises.
The sustainability of the site is further supported by the use of renewable energies. A photovoltaic system supplies the system with green electricity, and the use of district heating contributes to CO₂ savings.
Overfill Protection and Leakage Monitoring with Modern Sensor Technology
An essential component of the new infrastructure is the measurement technology for monitoring all safety-relevant processes. Approximately 170 vibrating level switches are used for overfill protection and leakage detection, as well as about 40 radar level meters with 80 GHz technology. The sensors provide precise data, are insensitive to interference, and were specially developed for use in explosive atmospheres.
Continuous level measurement ensures consistently high operational safety. Level switches provide early warning when a critical fill level is reached, preventing tanks from overflowing. Leakage sensors detect even the smallest amounts of leaked medium – an important contribution to protecting people and the environment.
WHG Testing in Chemical Tank Farm Centralized and Secure
Especially in the area of legally required tests according to the Water Resources Act (WHG), the measurement concept used offers advantages. Instead of testing each sensor on-site – often in hard-to-reach or explosive areas – a central evaluation system allows the simulation of test conditions directly at the control cabinet. The test button on the evaluation device triggers the sensor signal without physical access to the sensor technology being necessary. This not only saves effort but also significantly increases the safety of the testing personnel.
The system also proves to be particularly practical during installation. The sensors have height-adjustable locking screws and can be variably adjusted in height. This means that many applications can be covered with a standardized device design – a plus for planning and subsequent warehousing.
Another detail: The sensitivity of the leakage sensors can be individually adjusted. This makes it possible to trigger an alarm even with a few millimeters of liquid in the collection tray – particularly important for volatile or low-viscosity media.
80 GHz Radar Level Meters for Maximum Precision
The radar level meters used operate with 80 GHz technology and offer high measurement accuracy even with small process connections. The focused measuring beam enables precise results even under difficult installation conditions, such as in containers with internal components or agitators. Since the radar operates freely, it does not come into contact with the medium – this reduces maintenance effort and protects against material attack.
Future-proof chemical logistics through the newly built chemical tank farm exemplifies how modern chemical logistics can be combined with sustainability and technical safety. By combining intelligent measurement technology, efficient infrastructure, and automated processes, a facility has been created that not only meets the demands of today but also sets standards – both in daily operation and in terms of testing effort, environmental balance, and plant safety.