Apache Stainless Blog


Apache Stainless Equipment Corporation


[VIDEO] Large Tank Team Delivers BIG for Biofuel Industry

Apache Stainless Equipment Corporation, a manufacturer of ASME pressure vessels, was contracted to provide four (4) large columns for a renewable energy company. Apache’s “Large Vessel” fabricators/ welders manufactured four stainless columns that measured up to 167’ in length, 11’  width, and 112,000 lbs. in dry weight.

Government and public opinion will drive growth in the industry, and Apache is poised to support large tank projects with the staffing, expertise, and facilities to manufacture ethanol and biofuel tanks.

Quality & Compliance

We have a dedicated quality assurance department, including in-house inspectors, that focuses on full verification, testing and compliance documentation. Apache has been ASME certified for over 40 years and upholds many other global standards.

Transport

With company owned transport and dedicated employee drivers, Apache provides general and specialized high and heavy load transportation service. We will manage the necessary permits, escorts, and communication necessary for your large tank transport needs.

Field Services

Apache provides experienced and proficient industry technicians and engineering support to troubleshoot equipment repair and provide ASME and R-stamp modifications.  Audio and service contracts are available.

Located in Beaver Dam, Wisconsin, Apache Stainless Equipment Corporation serves the fuel industry with many types of specialized tanks, including distillation columns, evaporators, ASME vessels, API-650 vessels, clad vessels, custom mix tanks and storage tanks.


10 Reasons Why Ethanol Producers Choose Apache Stainless as Their Tank Manufacturer

1.            The number one reason for partnering with Apache for your ethanol vessel is our expertise of over 40 years supplying tanks for ethanol and biofuel production.  We specialize in heat exchange surfaces, pressure vessels, custom mix tanks, evaporators, and extraction equipment made from stainless and other high alloys. 

2.            Apache has the capacity for specialty large tank projects.  We have custom-designed and fabricated tanks from one gallon to 160,000-gallons.

3.            Apache has a good standing in the community and the technical college to recruit and retain skilled fabricators.  Our welders are ASME certified and are graduates of rigorous step programs and maintain a continuous excellent safety rating.

4.            We have control over advanced manufacturing processes. Our tenured engineering staff is experienced in project management of ASME specialty pressure vessels.

5.            Apache is employee-owned, a culture that drives efficiencies, collaboration, and innovation.  Our employees fully understand that customer satisfaction is directly related to the success of our company.  Located in Beaver Dam, in rural Dodge County Wisconsin, we have a strong midwestern work ethic.

6.            In-House material finishes include robotic and mechanical polishing, pickle passivation (ASTM A380 & A967) Electropolishing (ASTM B912). There is no outsourcing of finishes, Apache handles any size to be polished, passivated, or electropolished.

7.            Apache has a quality assurance team to coordinate testing and processes, TOP packages, and certifications, including ASME U, UM, CE Marking Permission, National Board of Boiler and Pressure Vessel Inspectors, UN DOT, and CRN (all provinces and territories.)

8.            Backed by full ASME and other global standards, Apache offers numerous testing and certification required for compliance, including pneumatic testing, hydrostatic testing, liquid penetrant, saline testing, CIP coverage, base metal thickness, ferroxyl testing, positive material ID, ferrite levels, radiography, and UT weld testing.

9.            Apache has dedicated transportation personnel and a fleet for specialized high and heavy load services.  Our transportation team provides permits, escorts, and communications for large tank loads.

10          Our field service technicians have years of experience as tank fabrication and repair specialists at Apache.  We fully support all stainless and high alloy vessel construction and refurbishment. We are ASME and National Board R-stamp certified for repairs and modifications. Our field service offering can be extended to audit and service contracts for preventative maintenance service preferences.


Sometimes Tank Damage Isn't as Bad as You Think

There are two main causes why a vessel may need service. There is a performance related issue, or there has been an accident.

In the case of an accident, such as a tool falling into the tank and causing damage; surface scratches and dents can typically be repaired on-site, provided they do not go beyond minimum requirements, with mechanical polishing or hand/wand electropolishing. 

The damage might be a bent agitator, or it might be damage to a side wall or baffles.  We see these kinds of things all the time and we can fix them most of the time.
Depending on the size of the vessel and type of repair, Apache’s service techs may be able to make repairs on site or in some cases, tanks are shipped back to the factory. Apache can provide services including:

  • Repair and replace agitator shafts
  • Add agitation to a non-agitation vessel
  • Refurbish outlet valves, seals, or-rings, and gaskets
  • Relocate nozzles and fittings
  • Replace manways
  • Repair jackets (conventional, dimple, half-pipe)
  • Add cooling or heating coils
  • Detect and repair leaks
  • Refinish product contact surfaces
  • Repair sidewalls
  • Change bottom head configurations
  • Modify tanks, platforms, catwalks for repurposing
  • Convert non-pressured vessel to pressurized (if approved by engineering)

It is important to note that any weld repairs to the ASME pressures zones on tanks, require an R-Stamp.  The R-Stamp is a certification required by the National Board of Boiler and Pressure Vessels for repair of an ASME tank or vessel.

Whether you have a critical repair or planned service, you need trained technicians who know how to maintain and refurbish pressure vessels.  Our technicians are ASME certified with confined space training and have the tools and expertise to make repairs and provide consulting on underlying causes of problems to make recommendations for improvements.

Contact Josh Schladweiler, Field Services / Parts Manager to schedule service.

920-356-9900 Ask for Field Services/Parts

Josh.Schladweiler@apachestainless.com

Download the Tank Group Field Services flyer


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