Frequently Asked Questions
- How Is Hydrocarbon Recovery Estimated?
- How Are The Cleaning Nozzles Inserted Into The Tank?
- Why Inert The Tank Atmosphere?
- When Are The Economics Most Favorable To The Tank Owner/Operator?
- Why Choose Automated Oil Tank Cleaning Rather Than Manual?
- What Is Downtime of A Tank Using an Automated System Rather Than Conventional?
How Is Hydrocarbon Recovery Estimated?
Pre-project lab testing on samples extracted by the oil company, a 3rd party or Cinatra, determines the sludge composition. The Cinatra process results in the recovery of a minimum of 95% of the hydrocarbons in the sludge. BS&W is determined using ASTM D473 for solids and ASTM D4006 for water.
How Are The Cleaning Nozzles Inserted Into The Tank?
The cleaning nozzles are installed by utilizing a certified cold cutting technology called "safe-tap". This technology ensures the safe installation of temporary roof nozzles through which the cleaning nozzles are installed. For a more in-depth description of "Safe-tap", please refer to Our Video. Cinatra can install the nozzles safely on fixed, single deck or double deck tank covers.
Why Inert The Tank Atmosphere?
Cinatra always inerts the tank atmosphere with nitrogen if the LEL levels in the tank atmosphere are higher than 20%. According to ISGOTT, API and other national standards, an oxygen concentration in the atmosphere of less than 8% eliminates risk of ignition. Cinatra constantly monitors and records the O2 level. The system process has an automatic shutdown function should the O2 level exceed the critical 8%. Additionally the nitrogen blanket aids in further reducing air emmisions.
When Are The Economics Most Favorable To The Tank Owner/Operator?
Generally speaking, larger diameter tanks with significant sludge depths offer the higher economic benefits to the tank owner/operator. Out-of-service time is a bigger issue when sludge volume has accumulated, especially when normal cleaning processes are used. The Cinatra process reduces cleaning time by 40% to 50% which will result in decreased overall project costs. Risk Managers have embraced our non-manned process which dramatically reduces potential safety and environmental liabilities compared to conventional cleaning methods.
Why Choose Automated Oil Tank Cleaning Rather Than Manual?
This cleaning method offers numerous benefits to the tank owner/operator: much safer, much faster, more efficient, more predictable and lower overall net project costs.
What Is Downtime of A Tank Using an Automated System Rather Than Conventional?
Studies and actual results show that project duration using automation is reduced by 40 to 50% when compared to conventional cleaning. Automation allows the tank owner/operator to avoid extended 'out-of-service' time. Automation also reduces the number of personnel on site, offering much safer working conditions, with significant increases in efficiency.