Tank Tightness Testing
Services
Tank Tightness Testing
Hugh’s Mechanical Equipment is a reputable company committed to delivering exceptional customer service to every client we serve.
Tank testing plays a critical role in assessing the structural integrity and safety of your tank. At Hugh’s Mechanical Equipment, we boast innovative tank testing equipment that sets industry standards in terms of accuracy and reliability.
Our preferred testing method, the Horner EZY3 Locator Plus, guarantees certified reports and instantaneous results for each test conducted. Leveraging advanced technology, our tank testing system has been the trusted choice for over two decades. The EZY 3 Locator Plus employs a non-volume metric vacuum test method, which is third-party certified, EPA approved, and exceeds the accuracy standards set by the United States Environmental Protection Agency for tank testing. It is suitable for both industrial and residential below ground and above ground fuel tanks.
Principle of Operation – EZY 3 Locator Plus:
The tank system is subjected to a slight negative pressure (vacuum). If there is a leak, air and/or water will be drawn into the tank. To determine tank tightness, two conditions must be met: either the acoustic signal detected should be consistent with the baseline signal obtained before applying the vacuum, or water ingress must be detected by the water sensor.
Our tank tightness assessment employs a state-of-the-art acoustic microphone to accurately determine tank integrity. A tight tank is indicated by the absence of any acoustic signals or water intrusion. A leak in the dry (ullage) portion of the tank produces a distinctive “hiss” sound, while a leak in the wet portion below the liquid level results in a “bubbling” sound. Additionally, if there is groundwater above the tank bottom and a leak exists below the groundwater level, water will be drawn into the tank, and this water gain is detected by the water sensor.
Benefits of EZY 3 Locator Plus:
• Precision test based on non-volumetric acoustic technology.
• Strictly pass/fail evaluation, eliminating the need for a gallon per hour threshold value as required in volumetric tests.
• Ability to test tanks with fuel levels ranging from 0% to 99%, and capacities of up to 30,000 gallons. The ullage volume must be the greater of 1% of the tank volume or 50 gallons.
• No requirement for a temperature stabilization period.
• Third-party evaluation confirms compliance with or surpassing all US EPA tightness test requirements.
• Strictly pass/fail evaluation, eliminating the need for a gallon per hour threshold value as required in volumetric tests.
• Ability to test tanks with fuel levels ranging from 0% to 99%, and capacities of up to 30,000 gallons. The ullage volume must be the greater of 1% of the tank volume or 50 gallons.
• No requirement for a temperature stabilization period.
• Third-party evaluation confirms compliance with or surpassing all US EPA tightness test requirements.
The Tank Tightness Testing Process:
1. Measurement of groundwater and product levels to determine the necessary vacuum pressure for the test.
2. Temporary installation of testing equipment into the tank, typically through the fill pipe.
3. Closure of the product supply and return lines as close to the tank as possible.
4. Plugging of the tank vent line using an expandable test plug or fernco.
5. The tank is taken out of service for a minimum of 30 minutes during the test.
2. Temporary installation of testing equipment into the tank, typically through the fill pipe.
3. Closure of the product supply and return lines as close to the tank as possible.
4. Plugging of the tank vent line using an expandable test plug or fernco.
5. The tank is taken out of service for a minimum of 30 minutes during the test.
In the event of a failed tightness test:
If the storage system (tank and associated piping) is found to be leaking based on the tightness test, the leak must be reported to the State DEP by any individual aware of the situation. It is recommended to conduct a comprehensive inspection of the entire tank system, including all lines and piping, to identify and repair any leaks. Once repairs are completed, the tank should undergo re-testing to ensure it passes the test.
Regulatory Requirements for Tank Tightness Testing:
Tank tightness tests must be conducted periodically to comply with regulations. Newly installed UST systems (those installed after December 1988) must undergo tank tightness tests every 5 years for the first 10 years following installation. In most cases, existing UST systems (installed before December 1988) that have spill, overfill, and corrosion protection must undergo tank tightness tests every 5 years for the 10 years following the upgrade. There are exceptions that require fewer tightness tests. UST systems that have not been upgraded must undergo tank tightness tests annually until December 1998, after which these tanks must be upgraded, replaced, or closed.
To benefit from our professional services and ensure your fuel tank system operates in full compliance with Federal, State, and Local regulations, we encourage you to contact us today for a complimentary estimate. Trust us to provide you with the personal satisfaction and peace of mind you deserve.
- Fuel Oil Tank Installation and Removal
- Hugh's Mechanical Equipment LLC
- 304 Jobs Hill RD
- Ellington, Connecticut
- 860-454-8241
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