Apache Stainless Blog

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

Sanimax, a leading rendering and renewing process company, partnered with Apache Stainless Equipment Corp. to provide stainless steel tanks to support growing production of B100 Biodiesel fuel. The Sanimax facility in DeForest, Wisconsin is dedicated to the processing of 100% renewable Biodiesel fuel. Apache supported their need for increased capacity by supplying one atmospheric stainless tank and three pressure vessels within the past month.

According to IFP Energies, a public sector research and education center for energy, transport and the environment, Americans are taking an interest in alternative fuels. The center’s 2012 report states that USA has been the world’s leading producer and consumer of biofuels since 2007. Sanimax responds to that growth by increasing production capacity.

The most recent custom stainless steel tank supplied by Apache was used for fuel storage. The tank was constructed from stainless steel with exterior insulation and aluminum cladding. The tank increased storage capacity for Sanimax by 30,000 gallons. The 132” diameter, 45 ft. high and 19,000 lb. atmospheric tank was API 650 rated. Apache provided in-house insulation and aluminum cladding of the tank and was shipped via Apache truck.

Apache serves the biofuel industry with many types of specialized tanks, including: distillation columns, evaporators, ASME vessels, API-650 Vessels, clad vessels, custom mix tanks and storage tanks. The Apache facility in Beaver Dam, Wisconsin is fully equipped with machines and processes for shearing, forming, welding, rolling and in-house head making. The company also provides finishing capabilities, including automated mechanical polishing, electro-polishing and passivation. Another facility in Plover, Wisconsin produces carbon steel tanks and equipment.

Apache appreciates the partnership with Sanimax and their cooperation in telling this story!