The submerged P43® was developed specifically for sludge control in crude oil storage tanks. Its powerful 'sweeping' action is more reliable than chemicals, more effective than side-entry mixers and far safer than manual methods.
Recovering valuable hydrocarbons
The P43® system re-suspends the hydrocarbons in the sludge into the light crude used during the de-sludging operation, leaving the total liquid content of the tank ready for processing.
In the case of one large diameter tank, this actually saved around 1000m³ in recovered product (at today's prices that’s a significant saving).
Dramatic cost savings
- Downtime is a fraction of conventional times.
- Recovers valuable hydrocarbons that might otherwise be wasted
- Cuts out the need for extra storage capacity during cleaning
- Tank contents do not require heating or chemical additions.
Enormous reductions in downtime and tank outage
Using conventional methods, a typical large diameter crude oil tank could be out of action for 8 to 12 weeks.
With the P43® system, the entire de-sludging operation can be finished in about 10 days - and that includes 2 days for emptying and re-filling the tank. What's more, the tank can still perform a storage function during the de-sludging stage.
Improved safety
The P43® system carries out de-sludging operations without man-entry, significantly reducing hazard to operatives. Naturally, all P43® de-sludging equipment conforms to the rigid safety requirements covering hazardous areas in the oil industry.
Permanent installations
For new, clean or gas-free tanks, the P43® can be centre-mounted as a permanent installation. A single P43® is secured to the tank floor - together with permanent piping to the tank wall shell.
Experience has shown that about 24 hours of operation each month is all that is necessary for complete sludge control, showing dramatic savings when compared with conventional side-entry mixers.
Environmental advantages
The P43® eliminates the need to remove sludge from the tank and transfer it to temporary storage and treatment lagoons, reducing fire and associated pollution risks.