Improved Tank Testing Methods

Abstract : The purpose of this project was to seek new methods for testing integral tanks in ships which would improve shipbuilders productivity while not detracting from assurances for safety of shipbuilders' test personnel, regulators' inspectors, operators' crews and ships. This research program addresses itself exclusively to integral tanks on ships. Independent tanks, including all LNG tank primary boundaries, are excluded. Of principal interest are new test methods to improve productivity in tank testing. Weld quality, ship design and scheduling, either affect, or are affected by, tank testing and so are of secondary interest. Both tightness testing and structural testing are covered in the study, but the major effort was directed toward improved tightness testing.