I'm sure there are others who have asked this but I cant find it in the past posts.
I am getting ready to do some work on a 4k gal used racing fuel tank,to turn it into a bulk sealer tank and want to make sure I do all the right things to stay safe and not blow up the place. I know gas seeps into the metal, so I thought filling it up, (outside) with water and adding dry ice while I cut and weld might do the trick. But it seems like a lot of work since its dropping below freezing and hope for an easyer way.
What is the standard practice? I did look at the API Standard for hot-tapping but couldn't find info for this. Do I need to cut a large hole in it and let it sit for 6 monthes and air out before welding. Is there a simple way or am I just crazy to even try?
Thank you in advance for any and all advice.
Sealcoater
http://www.fortunecity.com/village/lind/247/index_WELD.htm
Read Section 5 of Chapter 2. It will give you a couple of ways to prepare it for cutting. If it is good enough for Uncle Sam it should work for you too.
When I was in the Army we always used the vehicle exhaust method but take your pick.
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Just keep your fire triangle in mind...take away one or more of the legs of the triangle and it won't support combustion. Be safe. :)
John Wright
API DOES have a recommended practice on how to weld empty tanks that have contained flammable fluids. I've used it years ago but I don't remember the number.
It's a recommended practice, not a standard. It's for welding tanks, not for hot tapping.
If you don't find it on the API site, you can always give a call to API in Washington DC and ask for the number.
Giovanni S. Crisi
Sao Paulo - Brazil
Thank you all, you have been most helpful.
Cheers