Storage Tank Protection to Extreme Weather and Strong Winds

Increasing weather extremes such as storms and strong winds might increase the risk of loss or damage of fixed assets, such as storage tanks. For instance, in 2005, extreme winds along the Gulf Coast ripped through the outer walls and roofs of both cylindrical storage tanks and LPG spheres damaging outer shells and the insulation underneath. ExxonMobil has installed wind girders on top of its tanks, allowing to reinforce the structural integrity of the tank and to prevent collapse. Many tank operators reported that they had installed this relatively inexpensive adaptation measure to their tanks. Costs vary on a tank-by-tank basis because of their variable design but the measure is usually cost-effective.