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.
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