One of the major operational costs endured by the petroleum industry comes from the buildup of sludge in storage tanks. Sludge is the result of a combination of physical characteristics of crude oil components (i.e., paraffin’s, formation sediments, contamination with drilling fluids and rust scales) and the changes brought about by methods of refining, making it unique in every tank.

Sludge becomes a major concern when there is a fouling of the feed streams or when the tank has approached a time that internal maintenance is required. Not only do you experience the physical removal and handling expenses, but hazardous waste disposal can become the largest cost of all.

Contact an ITW representative and let us explain how we can significantly reduce the cost of sludge removal on your next tank cleaning project.