Tank Lifting and

Stabilization
Seminar Manual

MIX BROS. TANK SERVICES

 MTS Mission Statement

To be a tank service corporation

that effectively serves its clientele
through:

 putting the clients needs

first
 being cost effective
 using professional
consultants, innovative
and engineered
technology, and trained
personnel

. . . and to always do this with

honesty, integrity and safety.

MTS Tank Lifting Seminar ii

Tank
TankLifting
Liftingand
andStabilization
Stabilization
Tank
Tanksettlement
settlement
and
and
floor
floor
corrosion
corrosionhave
have
presented
presented
a serious
a serious
challenge
challenge
in in
refurbishing
refurbishing
tanks
tanks
that
that
have
have
been
been
in in
operation
operation
forfor
several
several
years.
years.

The
Theindustry
industry
recognizes
recognizes thethe
danger
danger
ofof
operating
operating
tanks
tanks
ofofquestionable
questionable
integrity.
integrity.Safety
Safety
and
andcontingent
contingent
liability concerns
liability concernsnow
now
require
require
more
more
attention
attention
bebe
given
given
to to
safe
safe
operation
operation
ofof
these
these
tanks
tanks
through
through good
goodmaintenance
maintenanceand
andupgrading.
upgrading.

Mix
MixMixBros.
Bros.
Bros.Tank
TankTank Services
Services has
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hashas
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been the
in in business
thethe
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business lifting
ofof
lifting
liftingand
and stabilizing
and
stabilizing tanks
stabilizing
tanks
tanksfor over
forfor
2828
35 years.
years.
years.WeWe have
havedeveloped
developed
thethe
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rightequipment
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andhave
have trained
trained
ourour
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personnel to to
dodothethe
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right
right
thethe
first
first
time.
time.

Seminar
SeminarSpeaker
Speaker
RON
RONMM is is
IXIX thethe
President
President Mix
of of Mix
Bros.
Bros.
Tank
Tank
Services
Services
(MTS).
(MTS).
Under
Underhishis
direction,
direction,
MTS
MTS hashasbecome
become anan
industry
industry
leader
leaderforfor
tank-
tank-
related
related
technologies,
technologies,developed
developed in in
direct
direct
consultation
consultationwith
with
engineering
engineering specialists
specialists
andandin in
cooperation
cooperation with
with
major
majoroiloil
producers.
producers.
Among
Among these
these
technologies
technologies that
that
hehehashas
designed
designedandand
developed
developed is is
MixMixBros.
Bros. Tank
Tank Services
Services Electro-Hydraulic
Electro-Hydraulic Equalift
Equalift
Jacking
Jacking
System
System andand
associated
associated
lifting
liftingequipment.
equipment.

Ron
Ronbrings
bringswith
with
him
him
over
over
4040years of of
years extensive,
extensive,
hands-on
hands-on
experience
experience in in
supervision
supervision
andand
project
project
management.
management.HeHe possesses
possesses
anan
in-depth
in-depth knowledge
knowledgeof of
hydraulic
hydraulic
systems
systems
andand
hashas
continued
continued
personal
personalinvolvement
involvementin in
thethe
research
researchand
and
development
development of of
newnew
and
and
unique
uniquesystems.
systems.

MTS
MTSTank
Tank
Lifting
Lifting
Seminar
Seminar iii iii
 Table of Contents
Table of Contents
I. Section 1Introduction page 1
I. Section 1Introduction page 1
II. Section 2Methods of Raising Tanks page 2
II. Section 2Methods of Raising Tanks page 2
1. Fundamentals page 2
1.
2. Fundamentals
The Right Tool for the Job page 2
2.
3. The RightVersus
Pressure Tool for the Job
Volume page 452
3.
4. Pressure Versus Volume
Lifting Points page 45
4. Lifting Points page 5
III. Section 3Tank Leveling and Stabilization page 6
III. Section 3Tank Leveling and Stabilization page 6
1. Geological Considerations in Settlement page 6
1.
2. Geological Considerations
Tank Settlement Theory in Settlement page 76
2.
3. Tank
CausesSettlement Theory
of Settlement 7
page 10
3. Causes of Settlement
a) Precipitation page 10
a)
b) Precipitation
Thermal Expansion and Contraction
b)
c) Thermal Expansion
Displacement and Contraction
of Foundation Material
c) Displacement of Foundation
d) Insufficient Shell Support Material
d) Insufficient Shell Support
4. Effects and Results of Tank Shell Settlement page 11
4. Effects and Results
a) Adverse StressesofinTank Shell Settlement
the Corner Weld Area page 11
a) Adverse Stresses in the
b) Other External Indicators Corner Weld Area
b) Other External Indicators
5. Measuring Settlement page 12
5.
6. Measuring
Correcting Settlement page 12
14
6.
7. Correcting Settlement
Repair Methods 16
page 14
15
7. Repair Methods
a) Reinforced Concrete Ring page 15
a)
b) Reinforced ConcreteRing
Crushed Aggregate Ring
b) Crushed
c) Piling Aggregate Ring
c)
d) Piling
Edge Settlement Correction
d) Edge Settlement Correction
IV. Section 4Secondary Containment page 19
18
IV. Section 4Secondary Containment
and Environmental Upgrading page 18
and Environmental Upgrading
V. Section 5Tank Relocation and DismantlingRe-erection page 21
20
V. Section 5Tank Relocation and DismantlingRe-erection page 20
1. Moving as a Single Unit
1.
2. Moving as a Single
Dismantling Unit
and Re-Erection
3.
2. Tank Turtles and Re-Erection
Dismantling
VI. Section 6Under-Floor Grouting page 22
VI. Section 6Under-Floor Grouting page 23
22
VII. Section 7Conclusion page 24
VII. Section 7Conclusion page 25
24

MTS Tank Lifting Seminar iv

MTS Tank Lifting Seminar iv
 Section 1

INTRODUCTION
Catastrophic Rupture, Fire, Environmental Problems, Injury, Legal Liabilityall
are contingencies which the storage tank industry has had to develop safeguards
against, and strives daily to avoid. In examining ways in which to further protect
your plant site from such possible occurrences, we invite your consideration of the
following material, based on over twenty-eight years of experience in tank servicing.
We will specifically address some proven preventative measures to counteract the
effects of tank settlement. These measures comply with the recommendations in API
Section 653 and will help you to prepare for increasingly specific environmental
legislation affecting your tanks.

Steel Bulk Storage Tanks have been in service for nearly a century. Over the last
several years, it has been increasingly necessary to lift tanks for a variety of
reasonsfor re-leveling and stabilizing, installation of cathodic protection and
secondary containment systems, floor replacement, and for relocation.

Some of the systems currently being used to lift tanks such as air bags, or lifting using
jacking lugs welded to the tank shell create the possibility for very serious
contingency problems, primarily because each of these systems introduce undue
stresses in the tank structure in the lifting process. These problems do not
necessarily become immediately evident, but appear later when the tank is full of
product and under the greatest operating stress. Additional factors such as a sudden
change in temperature or an earth tremor can trigger catastrophic failure of the tank.

Because of the capital cost of the tank itself, and the contingent liabilities resulting
from failures caused by improper methods of lifting tanks, the only real insurance
against tank failures is to utilize the right system and experienced personnel to lift
tanks. API Standard 653, Section B.1.3 states, If it is decided to lift the entire
tank shell and bottom at one time, it should be done by personnel with
demonstrated experience in this technique.

There are very few contractors presently operating in the world today who have given
serious thought to the very important business of lifting tanks safely without
introducing undue stresses into the tank. The technology which Mix Bros. Tank
Services utilizes is the most advanced in existence today. It ensures that neither
adverse stresses nor secondary bending moments are introduced into the tank
structure during the lifting process.

This material will explain the differences between the various methods in use today
and Mix Bros. Tank Services Electro-Hydraulic Equalift jacking technology. It
will examine the various reasons for lifting tanks, and illustrate why this technology
is the best insurance against tank failures and the contingent liabilities associated with
such failures.

MTS Tank Lifting Seminar 1

 Section 2

METHODS OF RAISING TANKS

1. FUNDAMENTALS

When raising a circular structure, such as a storage tank, it is extremely important

to remember that unlike a rectangular structure where one side can be lifted at a
time using the opposite side as a pivot point, a circular structure has no such pivot
point. As illustrated in Drawing L0039, lifting pressure cannot be applied in one
area of the tank without inducing adverse stresses in other areas, such as the shell
and floor on the opposite side of the tank. As a result, the only way to ensure that
no adverse stresses are introduced into the tank structure is to lift the tank
uniformly, level and in plane, all the way around its perimeter.

2. THE RIGHT TOOL FOR THE JOB

If the tank is to be raised high enough to accommodate men and equipment

working underneath it, jacks which are large and long enough to accomplish a
single lift to the desired elevation are preferable. Some methods using short-
stroke jacks can also attain these elevations, but only by a series of lifts, which
require blocking of the tank while the jacks are re-set. A major problem using air
bags or short-stroke hydraulic jacks is that the tank is seldom lifted and lowered
vertically, which often rotates the tank out of alignment with the piping
connections.

MTS Electro-Hydraulic Equalift Jacking System

a) High Lift

To accomplish this in a single lift, the HIGH LIFT hydraulic jacking

method is utilized. When lifting a tank to build the entire foundation, to
install secondary containment liners, to inspect the underside, to
dismantle the tank or to install undercarriages for relocation, the
Electro-Hydraulic Equalift Jacking System is used to meter large
volumes of oil to our Single Stroke HIGH LIFT jacking cylinders. With
each jack receiving an equal volume of oil, a smooth and perpendicular
lift is ensured (Photo IM000772).

Over the last 40 years of MTS involvement in industrial lifting and

moving of heavy and over-dimensional structures, we have led the way in
developing new and better systems to handle delicate loads with a high
priority to keep the vessel or tank free of unnecessary stress. Our research

MTS Tank Lifting Seminar 2

 LIFT

Pivot Point
is predictable

LIFT

Pivot Point
is unpredictable

TITLE SCALE: DRAWN BY: ENGINEER: PROJECT NO.:

PIVOT POINTS of NONE LWD

STRUCTURES EDMONTON
DATE:

95 JAN 17
REVISED:

0
DWG.
NO.:
L0039
Electro-Hydraulic Equalift Jacking System Photo IM000772
 and development efforts have resulted in the worlds most advanced
unified lifting technology dedicated to lifting large storage tanks.

The objectives to be attained in our self-imposed mandate involved the

following.

1) The system must allow for a 10 foot lift in a single stroke

(Photo DM00003).

2) The oil to each jacking station must be very accurately metered

to ensure an equal volume of oil to each jacking cylinder,
regardless of differentials in weight carried by each cylinder. This
aspect of the technology ensures a level, in-plane, perpendicular
lift without jockeying the tank from side to side during the lift.
The equipment must also have the option to provide equal pressure
to any one or all of the jacking cylinders to accommodate the
manipulating of the tank to in-plane level when the tank has settled
out of level.

3) The hydraulic oil supply must meet or exceed 30 gallons per

minute to ensure a lift in a matter of minutes. The lowering of the
tank needs to happen in the same time frames and manner to give
protection against an unexpected storm blowing in.

4) The hydraulic pressure supplied by the pump must equal the

working pressure of the rest of the system, that being 3500 to 4000
pounds per square inch.

5) The design needs to ensure stability for 75 mile an hour winds

when the tank is elevated 8 feet above the pad (Photo IM00089).

6) Every aspect of the system must have at least a five to one

safety factor built into the equipment and procedures.

7) The system design must be idiot proof with automatic shut

downs if mistakes are made by the operator. This helps to
eliminate risks (Photo DM00002).

8) Electrical and hydraulic schematics must be clear and

understandable so that any professional tradesman could trouble
shoot and repair even if they have never seen the machine before.

9) The jacks must be sturdy enough to endure the stress of the lift
as well as the potential of rough handling during transportation.

MTS Tank Lifting Seminar 3

Ten Foot Stroke Photo DM000003
140 Diameter Tank Lifted 10 Feet Photo IM00089
Electro-Hydraulic Eualift Jacking System Photo DM00002
 10) A tank support safety system with a very definite means of
evaluating from an engineering perspective must be in place to
protect men and equipment working under the tank. This is
accomplished through the placing of engineered steel columns
at each jacking position. Safety columns stand next to the
cylinder rod to carry the weight should a leak develop (Photo
IM000778). The column value of the 6 x 6-W15 complete
with inch plates welded on each end is 75,000 pounds as per
the advice of our P. Eng. There is always a space of 1.5 to 2
inches between the top of the column and the underside of the
apron to allow for the thermal expansion and contraction of
the oil in the jacking cylinder
11) Being able to lift the tank in one stroke to full height allows
for Prefabricated Bolted Together Cribbing to be installed
mechanically after the tank has been lifted. This allows for
easy repositioning of the cribs as foundation work progresses,
and since the cribs can not be handled by hand, but by a fork
lift or a loader, crew fatigue and back straining from block
stacking by hand is eliminated.

All of the criteria was met or exceeded in the final product that has been
developed and manufactured by Mix Bros Tank Services.

The technology allows for a perpendicular lift, combined with proper floor
and roof support. The tank is not twisted or contorted as is necessary when
lifting with airbags, where the tank is teeter tottered over pivot points. The
MTS single stroke high lift jacks have excellent lateral stability, unlike
airbags which have none. Airbags should never be used to lift a tank of
any significant size.
A unified oil volume delivery system and single stroke high lift jacks is
the only right way to lift tanks.

b) Low Lift

When addressing out-of-plane (differential) shell settlement, or edge

settlement problems, the LOW LIFT technique is utilized. Once the
tank has been lifted clear of its foundation using the same lifting
equipment, but with shorter jacking cylinders, it can be brought to a level
plane. As the volume of oil flow is precisely measured to each jacking
station, a perpendicular lift is ensured, maintaining the tank in a stress-
free position while re-foundationing work to correct the settlement
problem is conducted around the periphery of the tank (Photo IM000228).

MTS Tank Lifting Seminar 4

Safety Columns and Prefabricated Bolted Together Cribbing Photo IM000778
Low Lift Jacking System Photo IM000228
 3. PRESSURE VERSUS VOLUME

Because lifting a tank from side to side alters the stress dynamics within the tank,
it is important to ensure a perpendicular lift. Using a system which involves
only equal pressure, such as a free flow of oil to hydraulic jacks or equal air
pressure to airbags; does not guarantee a perpendicular lift.

Mix Bros. Tank Services LOW LIFT and HIGH LIFT hydraulic jacking
technology is based on a central jacking unit which supplies an equal volume of
oil to each jacking station. These systems ensure that each jack raises at exactly
the same rate. Because it does not operate on equal pressure, which is subject to
weight differentials, this system ensures a perpendicular lift of the tank.

4. LIFTING POINTS
a) The point on the tank which lifting pressure is applied is of crucial
importance. Systems such as airbags, air foils, or water flotation apply lifting
pressure to the floor plates, turning this thin membrane into a structural
member to carry the entire weight of the shell. The tank floor is designed only
as a seal to contain fluid, and is not designed to be a structural member. Any
flexing of the floor plates at the shell, caused by such lifting pressures, can cause
weld fractures. These fractures may not appear until months or years later
when the tank is fully loaded and the floor-to-shell weldaments fail, resulting in
a catastrophic rupture.

b) The attachment of jacking lugs onto the tank shell for the purpose of lifting
also presents stress-related problems. First, their attachment to the tank shell
necessitates welding, resulting in heat-affected zones and induced stresses.
Second: When using short stroke hydraulic jacks, the lug must be designed offset
from the shell enough to allow for the dimensions of the cribbing used to jack
from, the eccentric nature of these lugs induces substantial direct stresses and
secondary bending moments into the tank shell (see Drawing L0015). With the
MTS single stroke High-Lift Jacks these Lugs, when or if necessary, are more
compact in design, substantially reducing the secondary bending moments and
stress.

c) The only point on which lifting pressure can be applied without any moment
or detrimental stress is directly under the tank shell. The LOW LIFT and HIGH
LIFT systems use specially designed lifting aprons to ensure that lifting pressure
is applied only at this point and not under the floor plates inside the shell. As
illustrated in Drawing L0040, neither the floor plates nor the tank shell are
subjected to any induced stressesmaking this the best method to ensure the tank
lifting operation does not result in weld fractures and spills.

MTS Tank Lifting Seminar 5

 SAFE JACK SPACING (40')
WAS DETERMINED BY
ENGINEERING CALCULATION. THE
HIGH TANK WALL ACTS AS A LARGE
I-BEAM SO THERE IS NO DEFLECTION
BETWEEN JACKING POINTS

40' HYDRAULIC JACK

LIFTING UNDER SHELL

HYDRAULIC OIL
SUPPLY HOSES
UNIFIED HYDRAULIC JACKING UNIT
SUPPLIES EQUAL PRESSURE
OR EQUAL VOLUME OF OIL
TO EACH JACK SIMULTANEOUSLY

WOODEN SPACER
-NO WELDING
REQUIRED ON
TANK SHELL

HYDRAULIC
JACK

TANK FLOOR

TIMBER BASE

LIFTING FORCE
IS DIRECTLY
UNDER THE
SHELL

TITLE SCALE: DRAWN BY:

MIX BROS. LOW STRESS NONE LWD

TANK LIFTING METHOD L0040

DATE: REVISED: DWG.
NO.:
95 JAN 18 00 OCT 25
 Section 3

TANK LEVELING AND STABILIZATION

The leveling and stabilization of tanks is necessary due to the effects of tank settlement.
Tank settlement can occur in a variety of ways, each affected by a number of factors.
Because of inherent safety concerns related to tank failures caused by excessive
settlement, API Standard 653 contains a number of requirements governing maximum
permissible tank settlement limits. The Electro-Hydraulic Equalift tank lifting
technologies are the safest and most economical way to rectify tank settlement problems,
both to satisfy API requirements and more importantly, to ensure continued safe
operation of tanks currently in service. This section will examine the contributing
factors to tank settlement, causes and effects of settlement, and the safest and most
effective solutions to these problems.

1. GEOLOGICAL CONSIDERATIONS IN SETTLEMENT

In understanding why tanks settle, it is important to consider the characteristics of

the soil beneath the tank, and the ways in which various kinds of soil will react
when subjected to the pressure or load of the tank on the soil. (The following
information is referenced from An Introduction to Geotechnical Engineering,
Robert D. Holtz & William D. Kovacs, 1981 Prentice-Hall, Inc., Chapter 8,
Consolidation and Consolidation Settlements).

a) When a soil deposit is loaded (for example by placement of a loaded

tank upon it), deformations (of the soil) will occur. The total vertical
deformation at the surface resulting from the load is called SETTLEMENT.

b) When a soil deposit is loaded, it will compress because of:

1) deformation of the soil grains

2) compression of air and water in the voids, and/or
3) squeezing out of water and air from the voids.

c) As pore fluid is squeezed out, the soil grains rearrange themselves into
a more stable and denser configuration, and a decrease in volume and
surface settlement results.

d) How quickly this process takes place depends on the permeability of

the soil. It is therefore important to consider the qualities of the two kinds

MTS Tank Lifting Seminar 6

 of soil most commonly found under tanksgranular materials such as
sand or gravel, and clay soils.

e) Granular materials (coarser-grained soils) such as sand and gravel are

subject to very quick consolidationnearly instantaneously in most cases.
This is because of the relatively high permeability of granular soils. In
other words, it is very easy for the water (and air) in the voids to be
squeezed out.

f) When clays undergo loading, because of their relatively low

permeability the compression is controlled by the rate at which water is
squeezed out of the pores. This process is called consolidation.
Deformation of clay soils under load may continue for months, years and
even decades.

2. TANK SETTLEMENT THEORY

a) Storage Tanks vs Flexible Structures

It is also important to consider the differences between storage tank

settlement as opposed to settlement of other flexible structures.

In predicting tank settlement, it was generally assumed that bulk storage

tanks, like other flexible structures, exert a uniform load on the base on
which they are located. The pressure distribution beneath a tank has thus
been described as is illustrated in Drawing L0019, Fig. 1. The circular
lines below the cross-section of the tank illustrated are lines along which
there exists equal pressure. The top line represents a pressure of 90% of
the pressure exerted at the surface, with each successive bulb representing
an area of lower pressure. Tank settlement has therefore been predicted
to occur along the lines of pressure, as illustrated in Drawing L0019, Fig.
2.

In actual practice, however, bulk storage tank settlement does not occur
in this manner. There are fundamental differences between bulk storage
tanks and other flexible structures which result in differences in
settlement. While other flexible structures may exert a uniform load on
their substrate bases, bulk storage tanks do not.

1) The tank shell (by way of example, 40 ft high), because of the

weight of the steel in the wall and a portion of the roof, exerts a
downward force of approximately 800 to 1000 pounds per
lineal foot along the circumference of the tank.

MTS Tank Lifting Seminar 7

 2) This pressure is borne on the 1.5-2 sketch plate projection
around the bottom of the tank. This results in an effective load of
6000 to 8000 pounds per square foot (greater on higher or
heavier-walled tanks) (Drawing L0021).
3) In contrast, the pressure exerted by the product in the tank and
the tank floor itself (assuming 40 ft of fluid with a specific gravity
of 0.8 within the tank), even when the tank is fully loaded, is just
2000 pounds per square foot (or 3400 pounds per square foot
on a 64 foot high tank).

4) Because of this weight and pressure differential, the actual

pressure bulbs beneath the tank are therefore as is illustrated in
Drawing L0019, Fig. 3, with settlement thus predicted to occur as
shown in Drawing L0019, Fig. 4.

To illustrate from an actual project, Mix Bros. Tank Services was called
to analyze and alleviate a settlement problem on a 100-foot diameter tank,
40 feet high, situated in western Canada. In this tank, pressures along the
sketch plate are approximately 6000 psf. Pressure on the inside tank floor
is approximately 2000 psf. The tank was constructed in 1955. No
settlement readings were available until 1964 (nine years later). However,
from 1964 to 1975, the tank settled approximately 0.4 ft (nearly 5 inches).
(Drawing L0018). Note that this settlement occurred after the tank had
undergone its theoretical maximum rate of settlement, which occurs in the
first few years after construction. Note as well that the greatest amount of
settlement occurred along the tank perimeter.

b) Settlement Components

In addition to this weight differential between the tank shell and the rest of
the tank, there are three settlement components which affect the way in
which a tank will settle. These are outlined in API Standard 653,
Section B.2.2.:

Settlement of a tank is considered to be the result of either one or a

combination of the following three settlement components.

1) B.2.2.1. Uniform settlement

(Drawing L0013, Fig. 1). This component often can be predicted
in advance, with sufficient accuracy from soil tests. It may vary in
magnitude, depending on the soil characteristics. Uniform
settlement of a tank does not induce stresses in the tank structure.
However, piping and attachments must be given adequate
consideration to prevent problems caused by such settlement.
(MTS Note: B.2.2.1 is a reference to the consolidation of the soil
in the substrate, and assumes that the wall of the tank has been

MTS Tank Lifting Seminar 8

 ORIGINAL
ELEVATION

FLOOR SETTLED
IN PLANE WITH
SHELL

UNIFORM "FLAT FLOOR" SETTLEMENT IS UNCOMMON

ORIGINAL
ELEVATION EDGE OF FLOOR
IS PULLED DOWN CENTRE OF
WITH SHELL FLOOR EXPERIENCES
MINOR SETTLEMENT

SHELL AND FLOOR EDGE SETTLEMENT IS MOST COMMON

TITLE SCALE: DRAWN BY: C COPYRIGHT

UNIFORM NONE LWD ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

TANK SETTLEMENT DATE:

94 APR 5
REVISED:

03 MAR 27
DWG.
NO.:
L0013
 properly foundationed so that the entire structure [wall and
floor] settle at the same rate.)

2) B.2.2.2 Rigid body tilting of a tank (planar tilt)

This component rotates the tank in a tilted plane (Drawing L0042,
Fig. 1). The tilt will cause an increase in the liquid level, and
therefore, and increase in the hoop stress in the tank shell. Also,
excessive tilting can cause binding of peripheral seals in a floating
roof, and inhibit roof travel. This type of settlement could affect
tank nozzles that have piping attached to them. Drawing L0037
shows that the settled location of the tank shell, after rigid body
tilt, can be represented by either a cosine or sine wave with respect
to its original position in a horizontal plane.

3) B.2.2.3. Out-of-plane settlement (differential settlement)

Due to the fact that a tank is a rather flexible structure, chances
are great that the tank shell will settle in a non-planar
configuration, inducing additional stresses in the tank shell
(Drawing L0043). The out-of-plane settlements at the bottom
edge lead to a lack of circularity at the top of the tank, and in the
case of a floating roof tank, the extent of the induced ovality may
impede the proper functioning of the floating roof in such a way
that re-leveling is required. Also, such settlements may cause flat
spots to develop in the tank shell. This type of settlement could
affect tank nozzles that have piping attached to them.

While uniform settlement and rigid body tilt of a tank may cause a number
of problems by themselves, as described in API Standard 653, our
experience has shown that the majority of tank settlement concerns stem
from differential (out-of-plane) settlement, both around the shell and near
the floor to shell joint. Further, API Standard 653, Section B.2.2.4.
states that the out-of-plane settlement is the important component to
determine and evaluate, in order to ensure the structural integrity of the
shell and body. Because tanks will settle differently than other
structures, as explained previously, the most prevalent form of settlement
is a combination of out-of-plane and edge settlement.

1) Edge settlement occurs when the tank shell settles sharply

around the periphery, resulting in plate deformation near the shell-
to-bottom corner junction (Drawing L0038).

It is significant to note that in actual field situations, it is almost

always a combination of these three factors (as identified above)
that results in a settled tank being out of specification. In fact, in
over 20 consecutive years of raising tanks to correct settlement

MTS Tank Lifting Seminar 9

 ORIGINAL
ELEVATION

FLOOR SETTLED
IN PLANE WITH
SHELL

Fig.1
RIGID PLANAR TILT
WHERE FLOOR MOVES IN PLANE WITH
THE SHELL, IS UNCOMMON

EXTREME FLOOR
ORIGINAL
TO WALL STRAIN
ELEVATION

CENTRE OF
OUT OF SPEC. FLOOR EXPERIENCES
EDGE SETTLEMENT SOME SETTLEMENT
AS FLOOR IS PULLED
DOWN WITH SHELL

Fig.2
PLANAR TILT OF SHELL
SEE DWG. L0013
WHERE FLOOR DOES NOT MOVE IN
FOR UNIFORM TANK SETTLEMENT
PLANE WITH THE SHELL, IS COMMON

TITLE SCALE: DRAWN BY: ENGINEER: PROJECT NO.:

PLANAR TILT NONE LWD

TANK SETTLEMENT EDMONTON

DATE:

95 JAN 19
REVISED:

95 FEB 6
DWG.
NO.:
L0042
 U 11
U 10

U 12
Out-of-plane deflection for point "i" is
S i= U - (1/2
i U + 1/2 iU -1 ) for example:
i+1

= U - (1/2
S 11 11
+ 1/2 U10) U12

U i = out of plane settlement of point "i"

(+) when above cos. curve;
(-) when below cos. curve, for example:

U 13
U =11(+)
U 13= (-)

Note: See 10.5.1.2 for definition of "N"

Max. settlement at
(Pt. 11)

Datum line for adjusted settlement

Min.
settlement
(Pt. 22)

Datum line for net settlement

Plane of rigid tilt Actual edge

represented by optimum settlement
cosine curve
Uniform or minimum settlement

1 3 5 7 9 11 13 15 17 19 21 23

2 4 6 8 10 12 14 16 18 20 22 1

N (23) data points, equally (L) spaced apart

Tank circumference envelope ( D)

Figure B-3 Graphical Representation of Tank Shell Settlement

TITLE SCALE: DRAWN BY: ENGINEER: PROJECT NO.:

API 653 Appendix B NONE LWD

DRAWINGS EDMONTON
DATE:

95 JAN 16
REVISED:

0
DWG.
NO.:
L0037
 FLAT SPOTS
(OVALITY)
IN SHELL

WAVY ROOF
PLATES
CREASING OF
SHELL/ROOF JOINT

SEVERE STRESS
IN SHELL, ROOF,
AND FLOOR
INTERIOR FLOOR
PROFILE
ORIGINAL
ELEVATION

FLOOR AT SHELL
PROFILE

SEE DWG. L0037 FOR GRAPHICAL REPRESENTATION

OUT-OF-PLANE
SCALE: DRAWN BY: ENGINEER: PROJECT NO.:

NONE LWD

TANK SETTLEMENT MIX BROS. TANK SERVICES

DATE:

95 JAN 20
REVISED:

00 NOV 17
DWG.
NO.:
L0043
 R = Radius width of settled area (in feet)
B = Settlement (in inches)

Tank Shell
Permissible depth of B is given by
this formula:

R B = 0.37R

Original
bottom
position
B

Tank bottom

Tank Shell

Original
bottom
position
B

Tank bottom

Figure B-4 Edge Settlement

TITLE SCALE: DRAWN BY: ENGINEER: PROJECT NO.:

API 653 Appendix B NONE LWD

EDGE SETTLEMENT DRAWINGS EDMONTON

DATE:

95 JAN 17
REVISED:

0
DWG.
NO.:
L0038
 problems, Mix Bros. Tank Services personnel have never
observed a uniformly settled tank, or a rigid body tilt-settled tank
that has not had edge settlement problems, which became evident
once the tank was opened for internal inspection.

2) A major obstacle in determining the seriousness of the stress

resulting from settlement is the fact that tanks are seldom taken out
of service to allow for an inside inspection and inside survey of the
tank. This inside inspection and survey is crucial in determining
the actual nature and seriousness of the settlement problem. For
example, when a survey taken around the outside perimeter of a
tank shell alone indicates that the tank has tilted, but the chime is
still in plane, the assumption is that the entire tank meets API 653
specifications; however, the low side of the tank invariably has a
greater amount of edge settlement than the high-to-low differential
of the tilt (Drawing L0042, Fig. 2). As well, uniform settlement
may also cause problems of edge settlement which are not evident
unless the interior of the tank is available for inspection (Drawing
L0013, Fig. 1 + 2). Accurate methods of measuring and assessing
tank settlement are described later in this presentation.

3. CAUSES OF SETTLEMENT

a) Precipitation

The roof area of a tank collects a large amount of water during rainfall.
This water is deposited down the tank shell onto the pad, thoroughly
saturating the edge of the pad. Saturated foundation material has a much
reduced bearing capability contributing to tank shell settlement. Drawing
L0022 illustrates the results of the reduced strength of saturated
foundation materials. In addition, heavier water run-off causes erosion
from under the sketch plate and the edge of the tank pad, causing further
settlement.

b) Thermal Expansion and Contraction

During the course of an average day, a tank will expand and contract due
to thermal effects from the sun and temperature changes. The degree of
expansion and contraction is affected by temperature differentials, as well
as the amount of fluid in the tank. This expansion and contraction,
coupled with the pressure of 6000-8000 psf under the sketch plate, results
in the soil being shaved away, contributing to tank shell settlement.
(Drawing L0024). This can be observed when there is a build-up of
material around the bottom periphery of the tank.

MTS Tank Lifting Seminar 10

 ORIGINAL
ELEVATION

FLOOR SETTLED
IN PLANE WITH
SHELL

Fig.1
RIGID PLANAR TILT
WHERE FLOOR MOVES IN PLANE WITH
THE SHELL, IS UNCOMMON

EXTREME FLOOR
ORIGINAL
TO WALL STRAIN
ELEVATION

CENTRE OF
OUT OF SPEC. FLOOR EXPERIENCES
EDGE SETTLEMENT SOME SETTLEMENT
AS FLOOR IS PULLED
DOWN WITH SHELL

Fig.2
PLANAR TILT OF SHELL
SEE DWG. L0013
WHERE FLOOR DOES NOT MOVE IN
FOR UNIFORM TANK SETTLEMENT
PLANE WITH THE SHELL, IS COMMON

TITLE SCALE: DRAWN BY: ENGINEER: PROJECT NO.:

PLANAR TILT NONE LWD

TANK SETTLEMENT EDMONTON

DATE:

95 JAN 19
REVISED:

95 FEB 6
DWG.
NO.:
L0042
 ORIGINAL
ELEVATION

FLOOR SETTLED
IN PLANE WITH
SHELL

UNIFORM "FLAT FLOOR" SETTLEMENT IS UNCOMMON

ORIGINAL
ELEVATION EDGE OF FLOOR
IS PULLED DOWN CENTRE OF
WITH SHELL FLOOR EXPERIENCES
MINOR SETTLEMENT

SHELL AND FLOOR EDGE SETTLEMENT IS MOST COMMON

TITLE SCALE: DRAWN BY: C COPYRIGHT

UNIFORM NONE LWD ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

TANK SETTLEMENT DATE:

94 APR 5
REVISED:

03 MAR 27
DWG.
NO.:
L0013
EDMONTON
 c) Displacement of Foundation Material

The foundation material under the shell is often saturated to well beyond
the optimum moisture content. Bearing strength of saturated soil can only
be a fraction of the same soil in a dry condition. When all the factors are
acting togetherthe weight of the tank shell, the saturated plastic soil
fines, and the thermal expansion and contraction of the tankthere is a
displacement of material from under the tank shell out to the exterior of
the tank perimeter (Drawing L0023).

d) Insufficient Shell Support

Inadequate foundation construction has been an important factor in tank

settlement. In many cases, the entire foundation pad was designed and
built for a pressure of 2000 psf, reflecting the general assumption that
tanks, like other flexible structures, exert a uniform load upon their bases.
However, part of the pad supports a pressure of 2000 psf, while the
portion directly beneath the sketchplate supports a pressure of up to 8000
psf. In order to effectively equalize the pressure/weight differential
between the tank interior and the tank shell, an annular bearing member of
at least 2 feet wide, placed strategically under the shell would be required.
However, in most cases, tanks are constructed with a sketch plate of only
1.5-2, extending outside the bottom perimeter of the shell, to bear this
pressure. Therefore, pad construction should be designed to support this
weight differential. This has not normally been the case in most tank
farms in North America.

It should be noted that even if a tank is positioned on a substrate of well-

compacted granular material, such as sand or gravel, the above factors will
eventually contribute to shell settlement.

4. EFFECTS AND RESULTS OF TANK SHELL SETTLEMENT

Over a period of time, a tank shell may settle considerably, dependent on the
factors outlined above. API Standard 653 provides formulas for calculation of
acceptable settlement, beyond which the stresses to which the tank structure is
subjected become unacceptably high, and present a risk of rupture. Tank
ruptures happen at the point where stresses are greatest. On a storage tank,
this is typically at the floor-to-shell connection. Ruptures create disastrous
situationsenvironmentally, fiscally and from a safety standpoint. There are
observable effects of stress that will indicate the possibility of a problem.

a) Adverse Stresses in the Corner Weld Area

MTS Tank Lifting Seminar 11

 As a tank experiences settlement, primarily edge settlement, adverse
stresses are induced in the corner weld area. This area is considered a
critical zone as outlined in API 653 Section 7.9.1.1, which states the
critical zone for repairs to the tank bottom is within the annular ring,
within 12 inches of the shell, or within 12 inches of the inside edge of
the annular ring. As the stress induced by settlement increases with
continued settlement, strain results. This strain may be readily visible
during an informal external tank inspection, or may be concealed from
view. Typical strain patterns in the corner weld area include deformation
of the bottom of the shell or elongation of bottom plates. If settlement
continues unchecked, stresses will manifest themselves in a failure.
Failures in the corner weld area typically occur in one of two waysplate
failure or weld failure.

The steel plate material used in tank shells and bottoms will deform
elastically until stress values reach the yield point. At this point, the plate
material will permanently deform. Typically, a light-walled tank shell will
elastically strain and pull inwards (Drawing L0027, Fig. 1). In heavier-
walled tank shells, due to increased rigidity in the shell, bottom elongation
is the primary mode of failure. At the yield point of a thick bottom
plate, stress can exceed 100,000 pounds per lineal foot of shell
circumference. As the bottom plate thickness increases, as with corrosion
allowances, this load at yield also increases. The tension developed by
this stress also directly loads the shell-to-bottom weld. If the geometry of
the corner weld area is such that the yield strength of the bottom plate
exceeds the strength of the corner weld, a weld failure is likely. It is
important to note that these high loadings will concentrate stresses at weld
defects. Stress concentrations invariably lead to premature failures both in
weldament and material (Drawing L0026).

b) Other External Indicators of Deformation and Settlement

External evidences of tank shell deformation and settlement also include

dimpling of the tank shell at the rafter-to-shell connection of fixed-roof
tanks, flat spots in the shell, and deflection of piping leading to the tank.
Also, when the tank is empty, and the weight of the fluid is off the floor,
the floor plates will often rebound, raising the shell slightly off the pad
(Drawing L0020).

Other forms of tank shell deformation include out-of-roundness at the top

of open-top tanks, as a result of differential settlement. The resulting
ovality of the tank can cause binding of the peripheral seals in a floating
roof and inhibit roof travel, resulting in the need to re-level the tank.

5. MEASURING SETTLEMENT

MTS Tank Lifting Seminar 12

EDMONTON
 SHELL SHELL

FLOOR UNDER POTENTIAL

STRAIN AND FRACTURED
CORNER ELONGATED WELD
WELD
FLOOR

FIG. 1 FIG. 2
BEFORE SETTLEMENT AFTER SETTLEMENT

C COPYRIGHT
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
 Other forms of tank shell deformation include out-of-roundness at the top
of open-top tanks, as a result of differential settlement. The resulting
ovality of the tank can cause binding of the peripheral seals in a floating
roof and inhibit roof travel, resulting in the need to re-level the tank.

5. API
MEASURING
Standard 653,SETTLEMENT
Section B.1.2. indicates that a decision to level a tank . . .
relies very much on the proper interpretation and evaluation of the monitored
settlement data.
MTS TankAPI Seminar653, Section B.1.2. indicates that a decision to level a tank . 12
Standard
Lifting ..
relies very much on the proper interpretation and evaluation of the monitored
Section B.2.1. further identifies an absolutely crucial procedure in measuring tank
settlement data.
settlement: The principal types of tank settlement consist of settlements which
relate to the tank shell and bottom plate. These settlements can be recorded by
Section B.2.1. further identifies an absolutely crucial procedure in measuring tank
taking elevation measurements around the tank circumference AND across the
settlement: The principal types of tank settlement consist of settlements which
tank floor. (MTS NOTE: From the highest elevation to the lowest, as per the
relate to the tank shell and bottom plate. These settlements can be recorded by
circumferential survey) . . . Data obtained from such measurements should be
taking elevation measurements around the tank circumference AND across the
used to evaluate the tank structure. Drawing L0036 Figs. B-1 and B-2 (from
tank floor. (MTS NOTE: From the highest elevation to the lowest, as per the
API Standard 653, Section B) illustrate the correct method for surveying a tank
circumferential survey) . . . Data obtained from such measurements should be
in order to obtain these two sets of measurements. It is only when these
used to evaluate the tank structure. Drawing L0036 Figs. B-1 and B-2 (from
measurements are used together that an accurate picture of actual tank settlement
API Standard 653, Section B) illustrate the correct method for surveying a tank
can be achieved. Please note as well that although it is important to have the
in order to obtain these two sets of measurements. It is only when these
perimeter of a tank level, it is even more important to correct the out-of-spec edge
measurements are used together that an accurate picture of actual tank settlement
settlement to relieve the stress between the floor and the wall.
can be achieved. Please note as well that although it is important to have the
perimeter of a tank level, it is even more important to correct the out-of-spec edge
Once an accurate survey of the tank has been obtained, API Standard 653
settlement to relieve the stress between the floor and the wall.
supplies the following formula to calculate maximum permissible
edge settlement (Section B.3.3.):
Once an accurate survey of the tank has been obtained, API Standard 653
supplies the following formula to calculate maximum permissible
B = 0.37R
edge settlement (Section B.3.3.):
Where:
B = 0.37R
B = settlement, in inches
R = radius width of settled area, in feet
Where:
B = settlement, in inches
A simple explanation of this formula when applied to edge settlement is that the
R = radius width of settled area, in feet
maximum permissible edge settlement is 3/8 per foot of settled area (Drawing
L0038).
A simple explanation of this formula when applied to edge settlement is that the
maximum permissible edge settlement is 3/8 per foot of settled area (Drawing
The formula for calculation of allowable out-of-plane settlement is as follows
L0038).
(Section B.3.2):
The formula for calculation of allowable out-of-plane settlement is as follows
S < (L x Y x 11) [2(E x H)]
(Section B.3.2):
Where:
S < (L x Y x 11) [2(E x H)]
S = deflection in feet (out of plane distortion)
L = arc length between measurement points, in feet
Where:
Y = yield strength, in pounds per square inch
S = deflection in feet (out of plane distortion)
E = Youngs modulus, in pounds per square inch
L = arc length between measurement points, in feet
H = tank height, in feet
Y = yield strength, in pounds per square inch
E = Youngs modulus, in pounds per square inch
H = tank height, in feet

MTS Tank Lifting Seminar 13

MTS Tank Lifting Seminar 13

 1

12 2 TANK SHELL

11 3
Notes:
1. There must be at least 8 settlement points. The maximum
32 ft. spacing of settlement points is 32 feet around the circumference.
max. 2. Points shall be equally spaced around the tank shell. API 653
10.5.1.2 gives the following method of determining the number of
settlement points:
10 4
Divide the tank diameter (in feet) by ten and round up fractions
to the next higher number. Minimum is 8 survey points.
Eg. 100ft dia. div. by 10 = 10 survey points minimum.

9 5

TANK WALL

8 6 INTERNAL ELEV.
READINGS EXTERNAL
7 ELEV.
READINGS

TANK
Measurements of Shell FLOOR
Settlement (External)

CROSS SECTION VIEW

TANK SHELL

TAKE READINGS ON FLOOR AT SHELL,

THEN EVERY FOOT FOR THE FIRST
10 FEET, (WHERE MOST SETTLEMENT OCCURS)
THEN ONE EVERY TEN FEET.

10'
Maximum spacing
of 10 feet between readings

API 653 asks for at least

4 equally spaced diametrical
measurement lines.

Measurements of Internal Floor

Settlement- Tank Out of Service

TANK SETTLEMENT SURVEYS

SCALE: DRAWN BY: ENGINEER: PROJECT NO.:

NONE LWD CLP

ADAPTED FROM API 653 DATE: REVISED: DWG.

95 JAN 13 28 MAY 01
NO.:
L0036
 R = Radius width of settled area (in feet)
B = Settlement (in inches)

Tank Shell
Permissible depth of B is given by
this formula:

R B = 0.37R

Original
bottom
position
B

Tank bottom

Tank Shell

Original
bottom
position
B

Tank bottom

Figure B-4 Edge Settlement

TITLE SCALE: DRAWN BY: ENGINEER: PROJECT NO.:

API 653 Appendix B NONE LWD

EDGE SETTLEMENT DRAWINGS EDMONTON

DATE:

95 JAN 17
REVISED:

0
DWG.
NO.:
L0038
 Should the measurements reveal that the tank is outside the maximum limits,
Section B.3.1. indicates that experience has shown that if settlements exceed the
. . . requirements, then further assessment or repair is required. Section B.1.2.
further indicates that if at any time settlement is deemed excessive, the tanks
should be emptied and re-leveled.

6. CORRECTING SETTLEMENT

When a settled tank is determined to be outside recommended API requirements,

a decision must be made on whether or not to relevel the tank. In this regard, API
Standard 653, Section B.1.3. states:

Approaches used to correct tank shell and bottom settlement include

techniques such as localized repairs of the bottom plates, partial re-leveling of
the tank periphery, and major re-leveling of the entire tank bottom. Major re-
leveling of the tank, involving total lifting of the tank shell and bottom at one
time, can introduce high localized stresses in the structure and impair its
integrity. . . . If it is decided to lift the entire tank shell and bottom at one time,
it should be done by personnel with demonstrated experience in this
technique.

Mix Bros. Tank Services has the technology and expertise to respond to both
kinds of lifting requirements, as outlined in the API recommendation above, to
address tank shell settlement needs. While it used to be a major concern to tank
owners facing the prospect of having to lift a tank, the methods and technology
used by Mix Bros. Tank Services ensure that no adverse stresses are induced into
the tank shell, making even the total lifting of the shell and bottom at one time a
safe and economical operation.

The safest method for the total lifting of the tank shell and bottom at one time is
the HIGH LIFT method. This method uses hydraulic jacks with a 10-foot-plus
stroke. The interior floor and columns are first suspended using an interior cabling
system, to ensure that no structural damage occurs during the lifting process. The
entire tank is then lifted off the old pad with the Electro-Hydraulic Equalift
Jacking System. The pad and foundation are then repaired or reconstructed to
provide a stable foundation.

Total lifting of the shell and bottom at one time may not always be required,
depending on the repair needed. The alternative to total lifting of the tank shell
and bottom is the LOW LIFT Repair method. This method involves lifting the
tank shell with the Electro-Hydraulic Equalift Jacking System, to a height
consistent with the undisturbed interior of the tank, to its original design
elevation, conducting the necessary repairs to the foundation, and thus re-leveling
and stabilizing the tank on its new foundation.

MTS Tank Lifting Seminar 14

 It should also be noted that although some advocate methods (for correcting tank
settlement) using localized lifting techniques to lift one portion of the tank while
the rest remains in place, Mix Bros. Tank Services does not utilize localized
lifting techniques. In fact, localized lifting often introduces more stress into
the tank than it removes. It is not at all uncommon to raise a tank because a
survey would indicate shell differential elevations (out-of-plane), only to find that
when the tank is suspended on our hydraulic system with near-equal pressure at
each jacking station, that the out-of-plane, high/low spot was actually built into
the tank. To attempt to correct the elevation differential in this situation will only
induce severe stress in the tank. For this reason, a circumferential survey which
may indicate an out-of-plane shell can only be verified when the entire shell has
been uniformly lifted off the pad, and the pressures of each jacking station are
taken into account.

Recognizing the causes and associated problems with tank settlement, Mix Bros.
Tank Services provides a number of recommended methods for foundationing
and stabilizing settled tanks. If a tank is to be successfully stabilized, an adequate
foundation must be installed under the tank shell. In extreme cases,
reconstruction of the entire pad and foundation may be necessary. This must be
done using sound engineering principles that follow normally accepted
construction standards regarding soil-bearing designs.

The effect of each repair method outlined below, in its proper setting and
circumstances, is to safely and effectively equalize the excessive downward
pressure directly beneath the tank shell, to ensure that the pounds per square foot
of load are consistent beneath the entire tank.

a) Factors which determine the method of repair include:

1) Substrate soil compositionsand, silt, clay or combinations of

these.
2) Soil moisture content
3) Distance to the bedrock
4) Weight of tank shell

b) Repair methods provided by Mix Bros. Tank Services include:

1) Reinforced Concrete Ring with Fillcrete ring footing

2) Reinforced Concrete Ring with Annular Aggregate
3) Fillcrete ring footing
4) Aggregate Ring with Geotextile
5) Piling
6) Lift and Fill Voids with Fine Crushed Aggregate or Sand

These methods are outlined in detail in the following pages.

MTS Tank Lifting Seminar 15

 C COPYRIGHT
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
 7. REPAIR METHODS

a) Reinforced Concrete Ring with Fillcrete Annular Footing

Fillcrete is a flow-able fill material consisting of a sand and cement mix to
produce about 400psi in strength. It replaces crushed stone or compacted
granular type foundation support footings. It interfaces well where there is
poor muddy soil that makes it impossible to compact a granular
7. REPAIR
foundationMETHODS
over. It can be excavated when cured for addition of or
changes to electrical or underground piping to tank (Drawing D00012)
a) configuration
This is the optimum
Reinforced Concrete choice
Ring with for several
Fillcrete reasons;
Annular Footing
Fillcrete is a flow-able fill material consisting of a sand and cement mix to
It lowers
1) about
produce 400psithe in
bearing pressure
strength. of thecrushed
It replaces shell onstone
the underlying
or compacted
soiltype
granular by increasing
foundationthe bearing
support surface.It interfaces well where there is
footings.
poor muddy soil that makes it impossible to compact a granular
2) Fillcrete
foundation over. Itiscan
waterproof so it when
be excavated shieldscured
the foundation
for additionbase from
of or
excessive
changes wateror
to electrical and run off andpiping
underground erosion,
to and
tankprevents
(Drawing saturation
D00012)of
bearing soil.
This configuration is the optimum choice for several reasons;

3)1)Fillcrete keys
It lowers theinto the contour
bearing pressureofofthe
thetrench, increasing
shell on the underlying
foundation stabilization and effective
soil by increasing the bearing surface. bearing area of soil

4)2)Faster to install,
Fillcrete since noso
is waterproof compaction timefoundation
it shields the is required, reducing
base from
turnaround time.
excessive water and run off and erosion, and prevents saturation of
bearing soil.

b) Reinforced Concrete
3) Fillcrete keysRing
intowith AnnularofAggregate
the contour the trench,Ring
increasing
foundation stabilization and effective bearing area of soil
The Reinforced Concrete Ring with Annular Aggregate Ring method
involves the
4) construction of a reinforced
Faster to install, concrete foundation
since no compaction complete
time is required, reducing
with an annular sub-base
turnaround time. of well-graded and compacted crushed material
(Drawing L0007). This configuration has several advantages:

1) It lowers
b) Reinforced the bearing
Concrete Ring pressure of the Aggregate
with Annular shell on theRing
underlying
soil by increasing the bearing surface.
The Reinforced Concrete Ring with Annular Aggregate Ring method
Theconstruction
2) the
involves reinforced concrete ring also
of a reinforced acts as foundation
concrete a splash padcomplete
for rain
water run-off, preventing erosion of material from under the
with an annular sub-base of well-graded and compacted crushed materialtank.
(Drawing L0007). This configuration has several advantages:
MTS Tank Lifting Seminar 16
1) It lowers the bearing pressure of the shell on the underlying
soil by increasing the bearing surface.

2) The reinforced concrete ring also acts as a splash pad for rain
water run-off, preventing erosion of material from under the tank.

MTS Tank Lifting Seminar 16

Ring Wall
Construction:

compacted fill

Back Fill

Fillcrete

Existing soil
Fillcrete interlocks with irregularities
of trench and increases stability
of foundation

MTS Fillcrete footing and

concrete ring wall foundation
D00012
SIZE FSCM NO. DWG NO. REV

SCALE
ns SHEET
 TANK SHELL
COAL TAR SEALANT,
2 1/2" ASPHALT, SLOPE 1:12 FOR 3'
1" OF 1/2" MINUS GRAVEL
WATER RESISTANT PLASTIC MEMBRANE

2'
NATIVE MATERIAL
SLOPE 1:1 TO
TANK FLOOR EXISTING GRADE
RESTORED TO DESIGN ELEVATION

PREVIOUS TANK FLOOR ELEVATION

3/4" WASHED ROCK

SELF-COMPACTING
CLEAN CRUSHED 3" MINUS
GRAVEL COMPACTED TO
95% STD. PROCTOR
1-1/2" to 2" CLEAN ROCK
6" DEEP TO PERMIT TRENCH
DRAINAGE DURING
CONSTRUCTION

6"
GEOTEXTILE LINER

MIN.
GEOGRID
PREVENTS GRAVEL
FROM MIGRATING

TITLE SCALE: DRAWN BY: ENGINEER: PROJECT NO.:

GRAVEL RINGWALL FNDN. 1/2" = 1'-0" LWD

& ASPHALT CAP DATE:

93 AUG. 10
REVISED:

97 AUG 22
DWG.
NO.:
L0006
 3) It acts as a soil retainer, keeping the foundation material under
the tank.

4) The concrete acts as a rub-plate for thermal expansion and

contraction of the tank.

For these reasons, the reinforced concrete ring is an excellent method of

stabilizing your tank.

NOTE: When using the HIGH LIFT method in conjunction with the
reinforced concrete ring, the tank can be lowered onto the newly
reconstructed pad, and the concrete poured to match the existing contours
of the bottom of the tank. Experience has proven that this method works
well to ensure a proper fit between the existing tank and new concrete.

c) Fillcrete Ring

The Fillcrete Ring method involves the excavation of a 42 deep by 60

wide trench under the perimeter of the tank, that is filled with Fillcrete
similar to the Fillcrete ring under the concrete foundation mentioned
above(a)) (Drawing D00018). It is a fast and economical foundation that
performs very well. It sheds water and keeps bearing soils from becoming
saturated, however, fillcrete should not be used in situations where the
tanks is desired to be raised above grade. It performs best at or below
grade, for above grade concrete reinforced ring wall should be used.

d) Crushed Aggregate Ring with Geotextile

The Crushed Aggregate Ring method involves the construction of a

compacted crushed aggregate foundation to broaden the base and reduce
the bearing requirement under the shell. The existing contaminated soil
around the periphery of the tank is removed and replaced with new well
graded crushed aggregate. Geotextile fabric can be utilized to maintain
the stability and confinement of the new compacted material (Drawing
L0006).

NOTE: While this method will ensure stability of your tank for several
years, it misses some of the advantages of the concrete ring foundation.

e) Piling

MTS Tank Lifting Seminar 17

Ring Wall Tank is lifted to correct settlment
Construction: issues before Fillcrete is installed

Fillcrete

Load
Existing soil
Fillcrete interlocks with irregularities
of trench and increases stability
of foundation

MTS Fillcrete Footing

D00018
SIZE FSCM NO. DWG NO. REV

SCALE
ns SHEET
 NOTE: While this method will ensure stability of your tank for several
years, it misses some of the advantages of the concrete ring foundation.

e) situations
In Piling where the tank has settled severely on soils that have very
low shear and bearing capacity, it may be necessary to install added
In situations
support where the
by pressing pilestank has settled
around severelyofonthe
the perimeter soils that have very
tank.
low shear and bearing capacity, it may be necessary to install added
support
It is verybyimportant
pressing piles
to note around the perimeter
that this procedureofisthe meanttank.only to add
stability and not to be the prime-bearing member. For this reason MTS 17
MTS Tank Lifting
It isSeminar
very important to of
note
promotes the pressing thethat
pilesthis
to aprocedure
depth thatiswillmeantcarryonly to half
only add of the
projected weight of the tank shell and the fluid that is stored directlyMTS
stability and not to be the prime-bearing member. For this reason above
promotes
the ring wallthe and
pressing
piles.ofThe
theother
pileshalf
to a of
depth that will
the load carry on
is carried only
thehalf of the
projected
ringwall. If weight of the tank
the ringwall shell
settles and the
because offluid that is stored
consolidation directly
the piling willabove
the ring wall and piles. The other half of the load is carried
settle along with it avoiding the problem of point loading that would result on the
ringwall.
if the pilesIfwere
the ringwall
pressed settles becausetoof
deep enough consolidation
carry the whole the load.piling will
settle along with it avoiding the problem of point loading that would result
if
MTSthe uses
piles awere pressed
hydraulic deep enough
cylinder with a to 20carry the whole
foot stroke load.the piles to
to press
the desired resistance to equal 50% of the projected load.
MTS uses a hydraulic cylinder with a 20 foot stroke to press the piles to
the
Thedesired
weight resistance
of the tanktosupplies
equal 50% of the projected
the ballast for the pile load.
pressing unit to
push against when installing each pile.
The weight of the tank supplies the ballast for the pile pressing unit to
push against
The piles are when
pressedinstalling each pile.
immediately against the edge of the tank and utilize
an offset pile cap to transfer the load (Drawing L0007K).
The piles are pressed immediately against the edge of the tank and utilize
an offset pile
Accurate cap to
analysis transfer
and the load (Drawing
pre-engineering L0007K).
are performed in advance to
determine the approximate depth of the piles as it relates to the bore test
Accurate
results andanalysis and pre-engineering
the desired resistance to maintainare performed
the portion in advance to
of the load
determine the approximate
allocated to the piling. depth of the piles as it relates to the bore test
results and the desired resistance to maintain the portion of the load
allocated
NOTE: This to theoption
piling.is seldom used but is a good remedy in poor
conditions.
NOTE: This option is seldom used but is a good remedy in poor
conditions.
f) Edge Settlement Correction
f)
TheEdge
EdgeSettlement
SettlementCorrection
Correction method involves lifting the tank to its
original floor to shell elevation and filling the void with a fine, clean,
The Edgenon-corrosive
crushed, aggregate.method
Settlement Correction involvesreturns
This method liftingthe
thetank
tanktotoaits
original floor to shell elevation and filling the void with a fine,
planar state, but unless the pad around the tank is adequately sealed clean,and
crushed, non-corrosive aggregate. This method returns
the tank compound properly drained, the new foundation will also the tank to be
a
planar state,
subject but unless
to erosion the pad
over time, aroundrequiring
possibly the tank is adequately
future sealed and
repair (Drawing
the tank
L0004). compound properly drained, the new foundation will also be
subject to erosion over time, possibly requiring future repair (Drawing
L0004).
NOTE: While this is a temporary, make-safe repair, it will restore your
tank to original elevations, but will be subject to the same settlement
problemsWhile
NOTE: this is a temporary, make-safe repair, it will restore your
over time.
tank to original elevations, but will be subject to the same settlement
problems over time.

MTS Tank Lifting Seminar 18

MTS Tank Lifting Seminar 18

 C COPYRIGHT
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
 Photo IM000816
Pile
LowPusher
Lift Jacking System Photo IM000810
 Section 4

Secondary Containment and

Environmental Upgrading

Over the past few years, an issue of increasing concern to legislators responsible for
environmental protection has been the issue of preventing the hazardous effects on the
environment of product loss from hydrocarbon storage tanks. As a result, governments at
the state and provincial level have increasingly been implementing legislation which will
eventually require all such storage tanks to have built-in systems to safely contain such
spills. The most common of these spills is as a result of cracked welds in floor plates, as
well as the effects of corrosion; occasionally there is a catastrophic rupture that empties
the tank into the compound and beyond.

There are a number of alternatives to explore when considering secondary containment

options. Some are prohibitively expensive, while others simply provide warnings of
spills without addressing the problem of product spilled into the compound and beyond.
For example, one method of secondary containment currently in use is the installation of
second bottoms in the tank. Problems with this method include a high cost for
installation, and the fact that it offers no protection or containment in the event of a
catastrophic rupture.

The most cost-effective and reliable method of secondary containment is an early

warning system including the installation of an oil-resistant liner beneath the entire tank,
extending far enough outside the perimeter of the tank to allow for the liner to be
extended (if desired) to contain the entire compound. The result is an impermeable
barrier which has the capability to contain any product loss that may occur, provided that
the dyke walls are of sufficient strength and volume to contain the spill.

The use of permeable liners for secondary containment is a relatively new concept, and
has produced many claims and failures. In considering what to use in secondary
containment, it is imperative to use the highest quality and most appropriate liner
designed to contain the product in the tank.

The main factor which has served to dissuade tank owners from choosing this option has
been a hesitancy to lift the entire tank shell and bottom in order to install a liner. That
concern can now be alleviated using Mix Bros. Tank Services Electro-Hydraulic
Equalift tank lifting technology. API Standard 653, Section B.1.3. states:

MTS Tank Lifting Seminar 19

 Photo IM000220
If it is decided to lift the entire tank shell and bottom at one time, it should be done by
personnel with demonstrated experience in this technique.

The safest method for total lifting of the tank shell and bottom at one time is the HIGH
LIFT method. This method uses 16 to 24 ft hydraulic jacks, to which an equal volume of
oil is metered using the Electro-Hydraulic Equalift Jacking System. This system
guarantees a continuous perpendicular lift to a height at which the installation of the liner
can take place. No undue stresses are introduced into the tank shell during this process.
The interior floor is first suspended using an interior cabling system, to ensure that no
structural damage occurs during the lifting process. There is an added advantage to
having the tanks at this heightit allows for inspection of the underside of the floor, and
any repairs that may be necessary to the foundation or pad. Once all work beneath the
tank is complete, the tank is lowered back onto its foundation.

MTS Tank Lifting Seminar 20

 Section 5

TANK RELOCATION AND

DISMANTLINGRE-ERECTION
There are many tanks in existence today that are either in the wrong location or are no
longer needed. Product is being trucked for miles on a regular basis because existing
tanks are not where they are needed.

Because of the capital cost of building new tanks the inconveniences are tolerated. MTS
offers two options for the relocation of good existing tanks in answer to this problem.

1. MOVING AS A SINGLE UNIT

Conventional Method:
To move the tank as a single unit, it is first raised by the use of the Electro-
Hydraulic Equalift Jacking System. A custom-designed steel beam sub-
structure is then fastened to the bottom of the tank to evenly support the weight of
the tank during relocation. Under this beam assembly are a number of 16-wheel
bogies with hydraulically charged levelers (designed by Mix Bros. Tank
Services) which automatically compensate for uneven terrain, thus ensuring
uniform load distribution throughout the moving process. Each of the bogies is
capable of being steered independently, as required, or all can be maneuvered as a
single unit (Drawing L0031).

At other times larger tanks situated on the water can be relocated (even over
thousands of miles) economically by barge.

Mix Bros. Tank Services can also supply any site preparation requirements for
the tanks new location, including foundations and dykes.

When the tank has arrived at its new location, and is maneuvered into the correct
position above the foundation, the HIGH LIFT jacks are utilized to raise the tank,
and the steel sub-structure removed. Upon its removal, the jacks are then lowered
until the tank is resting safely on the new foundation.

Tank Turtles
MTS developed the Tank Turtle tank relocation system after applying years of
experience gained knowledge in the relocation of large oversized structures and
specifically applied it to tank moving. No large beam structures or wheeled bogies
are used. Instead the Tank Turtles are basically a walking beam, self propelled

MTS Tank Lifting Seminar 21

 Tank Turtle
 HYDRAULICALLY OPERATED
BOGIE WHEEL ASSEMBLIES
ELEVATION
VIEW

TANK
SHELL

CROSS
BEAMS

PLAN

VIEW

SCALE: DRAWN BY: ENGINEER: PROJECT NO.:

TANK RELOCATION NONE LWD

BEAM & BOGIE SYSTEM EDMONTON

DATE:

95 JAN 12
REVISED:

95 JAN 19
DWG.
NO.:
L0031
 and are capable of crawling over unprepared ground and soil. It is a Stackable
System, meaning the larger the tank; the more Tank Turtles are used, so any size
tank can be moved.
Ninety percent of tank moves are in plant, or less than 1000 feet, and this is what
the Tank Turtles were designed for. Their maneuverability allows for precise
tank locating, and they can even rotate a tank in place. For longer moves,
wheeled bogies can be used to do the travelling, and the Tank Turtle can be used
to precisely position the tank into the tightest of locations.

2. DISMANTLING AND RE-ERECTION

The viability of relocating a tank in this manner (as described above) depends on
the integrity and design of the tank to be moved. Some situations allow us to
relocate a tank, setting it up to meet all the API 650 and 653 requirements, at a
significant saving to the client. Each tank and the circumstances related to it must
be examined to determine the advisability of the move. In some situations,
however, it is simply not viable.
Dismantling and re-erection then become an option. MTS has used different
methods, depending on the size and location of the tank.

In some situations a tank can be cut in half vertically and transported in two
pieces.

Tanks can be cut horizontally and refitted after a lengthy move. This allows for
passage under overhead structures that could not be negotiated otherwise.

Larger tanks can be dismantled in sections and moved by flat deck or rail to
almost anywhere in the country.

The specifics of any of these options can be discussed to determine how best
MTS might serve our clients.

MTS Tank Lifting Seminar 22

 Section 6

VI. UNDER-FLOOR GROUTING

There are thousands of tanks located along the Mississippi and in the Gulf Coast
area that have a serious problem with floors that have settled significantly over the
years that they have been in service. In the past few years MTS has developed a system to
inject a non-corrosive, flowablefill, that will quickly and efficiently raise the entire
floor, columns and roof system back to the original floor to shell elevation design.

Tanks with sunken floors inherently have developed other serious problems:

Stresses develop at the floor to shell connection.

Stresses develop at the top of the shell to the roof connection
The columns, girders and rafters are adversely affected and at times will rotate
because the rafters are not snug against the roof.
Water flows under the floor when the tank is not loaded. This adversely
affects the pad and encourages corrosion on the underside of the floor.
Floor welds under stress may fracture and cause leaks and associated
environmental problems.
The floor design relative to the sump is no longer operating as designed.
Gauging readings are no longer accurate.

MTS has the right answers to these serious problems by utilizing the right equipment,
the right procedures and the right grout mix design of self leveling flowable-fill to
correct your floor elevation to original design and free your tank of stresses in the
process.

1) THE RIGHT EQUIPMENT

MTS uses 70 cubic yard per hour grout pumps that will allow the flowable-fill to
be installed quickly, avoiding the creation of under-floor voids. The material is
pumped through 4-inch grout nozzles welded to the floor on a pre-determined grid
to ensure final elevations are correct.

2) THE RIGHT PROCEDURES

Safety and efficiency are the major considerations in getting the project done
right. Flexible flow lines mounted on castered dollies make moving the grout

MTS Tank Lifting Seminar 23

 supply lines from nozzle to nozzle within the tank possible without compromising
our personnels safety. Laser levels and string lines are used to ensure correct
final elevations. Two-way communications between the controller in the tank and
the pump operator outside the tank ensure both safety and controlled amounts of
grout injected at any one grout nozzle. Specially designed jacks and lifting bars
are used to raise columns to allow the grout to flow under the columns and
prevent depression and irregularities often associated with mud pumping. All flow
lines and attachments are engineered relative to the operating pressure subjected
to them by the pump.

3. THE RIGHT GROUT MIX DESIGN

When pumping a grout mixture under the floor of a tank, it is important to ensure
that the product used does not create other contingency problems. The major
considerations include: cathodic protection, corrosion and bearing capacity. The
grout mix design that MTS has developed addresses all of these concerns. Our
design and the rationale for the material and additives that are used are revealed
only to our clients on a confidential basis. Using the wrong grout mix design may
result in impaired effectiveness of a cathodic protection system or cause under-
side floor corrosion. One of the special additives in the design creates an
additional 20% of entrained air which in turns adds dramatically to its
pumpability and its self-leveling. MTS has experienced good success with this
mix design.

4. THE RIGHT RESULTS

The placement of the grout under the floor is very carefully monitored and
controlled to ensure that desired elevations are achieved and the floor brought
back to original design.

5. THE RIGHT PRICE

Re-leveling sunken floors using alternative methods such as removing and

replacing the floor plates or high lifting the whole tank can take the tank out of
service for extended periods and cost much more to accomplish. In the interest of
serving you better, MTS has introduced the underfloor grout injection system for
re-leveling sunken floors. This is our endeavor to save you money over
alternative methods. The speed and efficiency at which we perform this service
will always ensure you get the right price.

MTS Tank Lifting Seminar 24

 Photo IM000297
 Section 7

VII. CONCLUSION
Mix Bros. Tank Services has the technology and extensive experience in all aspects of
lifting tanksthe Right Wayfor the purposes of correcting settlement problems,
secondary containment, underfloor grouting, relocation or dismantling for re-erection.
The cost-effectiveness and success of our technology has been proven repeatedly among
our many clients in North America. We would be pleased to conduct site visits and
prepare proposals or quotations on any tank servicing requirements.

Our engineering and marketing staff are available to respond to any questions or
concerns. Contact MIX BROS. TANK SERVICES in Norco, Louisiana at
(985) 764-3300, or our Canadian office at (780) 471-1386.
We also recommend you visit www.howtolifttanks.com and www.mixbros.com for
more information

MTS Tank Lifting Seminar 25