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The Importance of Coating the Tank Chime: Preventing Stress and Corrosion

Posted by Blastco on May 5, 2025 3:50 pm | Comments Off

The bottom chime of a tank is often overlooked, but it can be a source of significant stress—both literally and figuratively.

The bottom chime of a tank is often overlooked, but it can be a source of significant stress—both literally and figuratively. Understanding the challenges this area faces can help us implement effective strategies to mitigate damage and ensure the longevity of our tanks. Let’s dive into why the tank chime is critical and how proper coating can make a difference.

Why the Bottom Chime is Stressful

1. Water Collection

The design of the chime, which sits horizontally, makes it prone to collecting standing water. This water can accelerate corrosion, especially when exterior linings aren’t built for constant immersion. Over time, stagnant water can cause corrosion leading to structural issues, leading to costly repairs and downtime.

2. Weld Quality

Welds are often vulnerable points in the coating process due to their irregular surfaces. On the exterior of tanks, welds may not be ground down to the NACE Grade C or higher standard typically required for tank interiors, which increases the challenge of applying a high-quality coating and can lead to premature failure. Welds with sharp edges, voids, or inclusions make coating even more difficult, allowing moisture to penetrate and accelerate corrosion.

3. Thermal Expansion

The chime is also affected by thermal expansion and contraction. Variances in expansion between the concrete foundation, steel floor, and steel walls can create stress in this area. This movement can flex and even buckle the tank floor, placing additional pressure on the chime and damaging the protective coating.

Addressing Steel Floor Flexure in Industrial Tanks

The thermal dynamics involved in tank construction can lead to noticeable flex in the tank floor. You might even feel the floor rise in the center or see waves when walking across it. If left unaddressed, this movement can compromise the coatings applied to the tank.

To counteract this, we use a specialized process where we pump a high-flow, slow-initial-set grout mix beneath the tank floor. This technique fills any voids and stabilizes the steel, effectively eliminating floor flex and enhancing the durability of the coating system.

Tips for Coating the Tank Chime

1. Surface Preparation

Did you know poor surface preparation is the #1 reason that protective coatings fail? Prior to applying any coating, ensure that the surface is thoroughly cleaned and prepared. Remove any contaminants, rust, or debris that could hinder adhesion. Pay special attention to welds, ensuring they are ground down to improve coating performance.

2. Use High-Quality Coatings

Opt for coatings specifically designed for heavy industrial tanks, taking into account factors like moisture exposure and temperature fluctuations and UV exposure. These coatings should be flexible enough to accommodate minor movements without cracking.

3. Regular Inspections

Routine inspections of the tank chime and surrounding areas can help identify early signs of wear or corrosion. Catching these issues early allows for timely interventions, extending the life of your tank.

4. Implement Drainage Solutions

Consider adding drainage systems to reduce water collection around the chime. Proper drainage can significantly decrease the risk of corrosion and prolong the integrity of the coating.

5. Professional Application by a QP1 Certified Contractor

Finally, it’s crucial to have coatings applied by professionals experienced in tank maintenance. Their expertise can ensure that all factors, including weld quality and surface conditions, are adequately addressed. We always recommend a QP1 Certified Applicator. This Certification ensures that the contractor has the quality controls in place to perform successful industrial field coatings.

Conclusion: Protect your tank from the ground up

The bottom chime of a tank may seem like a small component, but its condition can have a major impact on the overall health of the tank. By understanding the stresses it faces and implementing effective coating strategies, you can mitigate corrosion and extend the lifespan of your tank. Prioritizing the coating of this area not only protects your investment but also ensures the reliability and safety of your operations.