Modular Surface Mount Secondary Containment System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing secondary containment systems in the oil and gas industry are labor-intensive, time-consuming, and costly, particularly for surface mounts, which are preferred to minimize ground disturbance and environmental impact, while also being inefficient and environmentally unfriendly.
Innovation Solution
A modular, interconnectable secondary containment system comprising prefabricated steel members that can be easily assembled to form a barrier with an overlapping design, including a flexible plastic liner for capturing leaks and spills, allowing for quick deployment and removal, and customizable for various applications.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional berm or pillar systems are used for secondary containment, then containment effectiveness is achieved, but labor intensity and installation time increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The containment system is divided into modular pre-fabricated panels that can be independently manufactured and assembled on-site. Each panel is a self-contained unit with standardized dimensions and attachment mechanisms, allowing rapid deployment without requiring extensive earthmoving equipment or skilled labor for complex constructions.
Solution Approach 2:
The containment panels are pre-fabricated off-site with all necessary structural components, fastening mechanisms, and protective coatings already in place. This preliminary preparation eliminates time-consuming on-site fabrication, welding, or assembly operations, allowing crews to simply install pre-assembled units.
2Strength
If traditional metal secondary containment is installed, then containment structure is provided, but ground disturbance and environmental impact increase
Solution Approach 1:
The containment system uses thin-walled steel panels that derive their structural strength from geometry and inter-panel connections rather than material thickness. These panels can be installed on prepared surfaces without requiring deep foundations or significant ground modification, minimizing disturbance to the underlying soil and environment.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If surface mount containment is used, then ground disturbance is minimized, but installation cost and time increase due to labor requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The panels incorporate self-aligning features, interlocking edges, and tool-less or minimal-tool fastening systems that allow installation crews to assemble the containment structure with basic skills and standard hand tools. The modular design with standardized connection points enables workers to quickly attach panels without requiring specialized equipment or extensive training.
4Productivity
If prefabricated modular pieces are used, then assembly speed increases, but system complexity and manufacturing requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The containment system employs standardized panel dimensions, connection mechanisms, and mounting methods that can be used across different installation scenarios and containment configurations. This universality allows the same basic panel design to serve multiple functions and adapt to various site requirements without increasing manufacturing complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention comprises a surface mount secondary containment system comprising prefabricated pieces that may be assembled to form a wall and adjoining corner with overlapping sections to capture leaks, spillage or the like from a primary liquid container member.