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Q1: What is the main function of an atmospheric gauge tank?
Answer:
✅ A1: It is a non-pressurized vessel used to measure low oil flow rates or calibrate metering devices, especially when the flow is too low to drive oil to burners. It can also temporarily store oil..
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Q2: Why can't gauge tanks be used when H₂S is present in the effluent?
Answer:
✅ A2: Because gauge tanks vent gas directly to the atmosphere, the presence of toxic H₂S gas would pose a serious safety hazard to personnel..
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Q3: What are key safety features of gauge tanks?
Answer:
✅ey safety features of gauge tanks
- Flame arrestors on vents
- Grounding strap to prevent static charge
- Never to be used with H₂S
- Tanks must be transported empty and lifted using skid anchor shoes
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Q4: What is the role of the flame arrestor?
Answer:
✅ A4: It allows gas flow while preventing flame propagation by absorbing heat and lowering the temperature of the gas-air mixture below its autoignition point..
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Q5: What differentiates a surge tank from a gauge tank?
Answer:
✅ differentiates a surge tank from a gauge tank
- Surge tanks are pressurized and suitable for H₂S service
- Can act as second-stage separators
- Maintain back pressure via an automatic control valve
- Often include dual compartments for continuous operation
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Q6: What are some components of a vertical surge tank?
Answer:
✅ some components of a vertical surge tank.
- Pressure relief valve
- High/low level alarm system
- Sight glass or magnetic level system
- Diverter, vortex breaker, stiffening rings
- Sampling ports and bypass manifold
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Q7: How is the combined meter factor calculated using a surge tank?
Answer:
✅ the combined meter factor calculated using a surge tank by the following steps.
- Record initial oil meter and tank levels
- Fill tank, then stop flow and let gas escape
- Record final tank level and oil meter reading
- Use tank volume coefficient to calculate actual volume and compare to meter reading
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Q8: When must a surge tank be used instead of a gauge tank?
Answer:
✅ surge tank be used instead of a gauge tank.
- When H₂S is present in the effluent
- When pressurized containment is needed
- If a second-stage separation is required
- If space efficiency or air supply for valve control is prioritized
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Q9: What precautions are needed before repairing a tank?
Answer:
✅ precautions are needed before repairing a tank.
- Steam clean and degas the tank
- Maintain constant communication with someone outside the tank
- Only repair when the tank is empty and safe