Leaks at the tank chime—the critical interface where the tank shell meets the bottom plate—pose a serious threat to the structural integrity of above-ground storage tanks. These leaks often go undetected and are primarily caused by the failure of the original sealant used to fill the void between the tank floor and its foundation pad.
Sealant failure can result from various factors, including:
- Disbondment
- Structural movement and cracking
- Chemical or UV degradation
When rainwater or condensation collects around the chime area, it can penetrate these compromised seals via gravity or capillary action. Once moisture enters this space, it becomes trapped, creating an aerated environment that promotes corrosion on the underside of the tank floor—a potentially costly and hazardous problem.
To address this issue, a comprehensive STOPAQ® tank chime sealing system was implemented and meticulously installed by Ferrous Protection. This system creates a fully bonded, self-healing, and maintenance-free seal designed to last a minimum of 30 years. It not only seals the chime edge but also fills the void beneath the tank floor plate and foundation, effectively blocking ingress of water, oxygen, and contaminants.
The following methodology was used:
- STOPAQ® 4200 Filler – Used to fill the gap between the tank floor and the ring beam foundation.
- STOPAQ® Paste CZ – Applied to smooth the ring beam surface and provide a transitional fillet for optimal adhesion.
- STOPAQ® Wrappingband EZLT – Installed to form a continuous, viscoelastic seal around the chime area.
The STOPAQ® chime sealing solution, applied under controlled site conditions, delivers a long-term (30+ Years), durable barrier against corrosion with minimal maintenance requirements. It not only extends the service life of the tank but also meets strict environmental compliance standards, ensuring safe and reliable operation for decades to come.
