Structural Glue Inner Wall for Double-Walled Tank Retrofit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for converting single-walled storage tanks into double-walled tanks face challenges such as arduous fiberglass tape placement, hazardous welding processes, and unreliable epoxy resin coatings, which can lead to leaks and environmental pollution, especially in underground tanks.
Innovation Solution
A method using structural glue to join sheet metal pieces for the inner wall, creating a firm and resistant joint that withstands pressure and temperature changes, and an adhesive to secure the inner wall to the outer wall, eliminating the need for hazardous welding and ensuring a durable double-walled structure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If welding is used to join metal plates for the inner wall, then the joint strength is improved, but the process becomes hazardous and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the welding process (thermal/mechanical system) with a mechanical fastening system using clips or clamps to join metal plates. This substitution eliminates the hazards and complexity of welding operations while maintaining structural integrity through mechanical means.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intermediate fastening elements (clips, clamps, or mechanical fasteners) as mediators between metal plates. These intermediaries provide a safer, simpler connection method compared to direct welding, reducing process complexity and hazard levels while achieving the required joint strength.
2Reliability
If fiberglass tape is used to cover foil overlaps, then the sealing is improved, but the work becomes arduous and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the time-consuming fiberglass tape application step from the installation process. By using metal plates with built-in overlapping edges and mechanical fasteners, the need for separate sealing with fiberglass tape is eliminated, significantly reducing installation time while maintaining sealing reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the sealing function into the structural design of the metal plates themselves through overlapping edges. This integration eliminates the need for separate sealing materials like fiberglass tape, combining structural support and sealing functions into a single efficient system.
3Reliability
If epoxy resin coating is applied to retain fiberglass tape, then the retention is improved, but the process complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the epoxy resin coating step entirely from the process. By using mechanical fasteners and overlapping metal plate edges, the retention of sealing elements is achieved through mechanical means rather than chemical coating, eliminating process complexity associated with applying and curing resin.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the chemical bonding system (epoxy resin coating) with a mechanical retention system using clips, clamps, or interlocking plate edges. This substitution simplifies the process by eliminating the need for resin application while maintaining reliable retention of sealing components.
4Ease of manufacture
If workers enter the tank to install the inner wall, then the installation is possible, but the exposure time increases safety risks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the installation process into modular components (standardized metal plates with pre-attached fasteners) that can be assembled from the outside. This segmentation enables simplified installation procedures that reduce the need for workers to enter the tank, minimizing exposure time and safety risks.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary actions by pre-attaching fasteners to metal plates before installation. This preparation allows for quick assembly from the outside of the tank, eliminating the need for workers to enter the tank during the installation process and thereby reducing exposure time and safety risks.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The method simplifies the construction process, reduces worker exposure time, and provides a durable, leak-resistant double-walled tank that maintains integrity under pressure and temperature fluctuations, enhancing safety and compliance with environmental regulations.
Implementation Method 1
A method using structural glue to join sheet metal pieces for the inner wall, creating a firm and resistant joint that withstands pressure and temperature changes
Implementation Method 2
an adhesive to secure the inner wall to the outer wall, eliminating the need for hazardous welding
Data Source
Figure 1~2
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AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a method for making an inner wall (22) inside a tank (1) having an outer wall (21) that encloses an inner chamber (18). The method provides for providing a plurality of pieces (30, 30a, 30b) of sheet metal (in particular, of aluminium or aluminium alloy), which are put into the inner chamber (18) of the tank (1). The pieces of sheet metal (30, 30a, 30b) are positioned next to each other to compose an inner lining of the outer wall (21). The pieces of sheet metal (30, 30a, 30b) are joined to each other by means of a structural glue (35), to obtain an inner wall (22) composed of pieces of sheet metal (30, 30a, 30b) that are glued to each other. The disclosure relates also to a tank (1) having an outer wall (21) and a so-obtained inner wall (22). The method can be adopted also for a tank that already has a double wall and in which one of the two walls is damaged or no longer fluid-tight.