The tank storage industry is undergoing a significant transformation as robotics redefines maintenance, inspection, and cleaning. Traditionally, these tasks have relied on human operators entering confined spaces, exposing them to significant health and safety risks while incurring substantial operational downtime costs. Robotics promises to change this paradigm, delivering safer, more efficient, cost-effective solutions.
A recent collaboration between not-for-profit SPRINT Robotics and StocExpo showcased the growing emphasis on robotic innovations in the sector.
Current tank storage maintenance
Aboveground storage tanks (AGSTs) have been essential for storing chemicals, fuels and other industrial materials. However, maintaining these critical assets presents complex challenges. Internal inspections, often mandated by stringent industry standards, require tanks to be emptied, cleaned, and prepared for human entry. These processes disrupt operations and entail high costs, including lost revenue during shutdowns.
Despite advances in safety protocols, reliance on manual inspections remains a bottleneck, limiting operational efficiency and increasing the potential for human error.
The industry’s collective goal is clear: to eliminate human entry into storage tanks and replace it with robotic solutions capable of performing the same tasks with higher precision and consistency.
The role of robotics
Robotics is a game-changer, enabling real-time, in-service inspection and cleaning of storage tanks without shutdowns. Solutions include autonomous systems and tethered devices equipped with advanced sensors and imaging technologies capable of detecting anomalies, mapping metal loss, and assessing structural integrity.
One of the most significant advancements is the deployment of robotics for in-service inspection. By inspecting tanks while they remain operational, companies can reduce downtime, save costs, and optimise maintenance schedules. Additionally, robotic systems reduce reliance on opportunity maintenance, a common practice where repairs are carried out sub-optimally during scheduled shutdowns, by enabling targeted, data-driven interventions.
Guidelines developed by SPRINT Robotics for the application of robotics in AGSTs provide a critical framework for ensuring operational quality standards. These guidelines address key challenges, such as ensuring regulatory acceptance of robotic inspection results and promoting uniformity in operational procedures. By standardising robotic technologies, the guidelines pave the way for broader adoption across the industry.
Safety and efficiency
One of the primary drivers of robotics adoption in tank storage is improved safety. Robotics eliminates the need for human entry into tanks, removing personnel from hazardous environments. This shift significantly reduces the risk of accidents, exposure to toxic substances, and confined space-related incidents.
Robotic systems also bring unmatched efficiency to tank maintenance. Equipped with state-of-the-art sensors, these systems can provide detailed, high-resolution data on the condition of tank walls and bottoms. Advanced imaging technologies and machine learning algorithms further enhance their ability to identify potential issues, enabling predictive maintenance and extending the lifespan of assets.
For example, robotic cleaning systems can precisely remove residues and contaminants, optimising tank hygiene without manual intervention. This capability is especially crucial in industries where contamination risks, such as in the storage of biofuels or sensitive chemicals, are a critical concern.
The vision
Since its inception in 2015, SPRINT Robotics has been instrumental in fostering innovation in robotics for industrial maintenance and inspection. Founded by leading energy sector asset owners, the organisation has grown into a globally recognised platform with nearly 100 member organisations.
Overcoming barriers
Despite the clear benefits, adopting robotics in tank storage is not without challenges. One significant hurdle is regulatory acceptance.
Industry standards and codes often lag technological advancements, creating uncertainty around validating robotic inspection results. Addressing this issue requires collaboration between technology providers, asset owners, and regulatory bodies to ensure that robotic inspections meet or exceed existing quality benchmarks.
Another challenge is integrating robotics into existing operations. Many storage facilities were not designed with robotics in mind, necessitating retrofits or adaptations to enable robotic access. However, these initial investments are often offset by long-term savings in operational costs and enhanced safety outcomes.
Finally, workforce training is crucial for the successful implementation of robotic technologies. Operators must have the skills to deploy, manage, and interpret data from robotic systems. As the industry moves towards robotics, investing in workforce development will be essential to maximise the benefits of these innovations.
A sustainable future?
Robotics enhances operational efficiency and safety and supports the tank storage industry’s sustainability goals. By enabling in-service inspections, robotic systems reduce the need for shutdowns, minimising the environmental impact of maintenance activities. Robotics also contributes to better resource management by extending the lifespan of storage tanks and reducing material waste.
For example, robotic cleaning systems optimise the use of cleaning agents and water, reducing industrial resource consumption. Additionally, advanced robotics can support the transition to storing cleaner fuels, such as biofuels or hydrogen, by ensuring tanks meet the stringent requirements for these emerging markets.
Looking ahead at an industry standard
Integrating robotics into tank storage is no longer a question of if but when. As technologies continue to evolve and regulatory frameworks adapt, robotics is set to become a standard feature in the industry. Organisations like ours are driving this transition, providing the tools, guidelines, and platforms needed to accelerate adoption.
The partnership between SPRINT Robotics and StocExpo exemplifies the collaborative approach required to realise this vision. By bringing together industry leaders, technology innovators, and end-users, these initiatives create a fertile ground for innovation and knowledge sharing.
One thing is clear: robotics is not merely an addition to existing practices but a fundamental shift in how the industry operates. With safety, efficiency, and sustainability at its core, robotics is set to redefine the future of tank storage.
