Upgrading Existing USTs

Note - The requirements shown here apply to underground storage tanks (USTs) that are greater than 1100 gallons, and are recommended for smaller tanks as well. Check for additional requirements in your state.

UPGRADING consists of adding corrosion protection to existing underground storage tanks and piping systems.

PROTECTING TANKS

There are three methods by which tanks can be upgraded.

  1. Line tank interior according to industry codes. References

  2. Tanks using only cathode protection must meet the general requirements of cathodic protection and satisfy one of the following:

    If tank < 10 yrs old: you can use one of the following:

    If tank < 10 years old: you can have 2 tank tightness tests conducted. The first must take place before you install cathodic protection. The second test must take place 3 to 6 months later.

    If tank 10 years +: it must be internally inspected and assessed to make sure that it is structurally sound and free of any corrosion holes before a cathodic protection system is installed.

  3. You can combine tank interior lining with cathodic protection. If you use this combination method you are not required to have the interior lining of the tank periodically inspected.

PROTECTING PIPING

Unless the existing piping is made of noncorrodible material, it must meet the requirements of cathode protection of new metal pipes, with the exception that the existing piping does not need to be coated with a corrosion-resistant coating.

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