What is the purpose of blanketing tanks with inert gases?

The purpose of blanketing tanks with inert gases primarily revolves around maintaining a stable environment within the tank. By using inert gases, the objective is to maintain a set pressure and prevent the formation of flammable atmospheres. Inert gases, such as nitrogen or carbon dioxide, do not react with the contents of the tank and displace the oxygen, which is essential for combustion. This helps to mitigate the risk of fire and explosion, ensuring a safer operational environment.

Additionally, keeping a consistent pressure within the tank is crucial for process stability. Fluctuations in pressure can lead to structural stress on the tank and potential leaks or failures. By blanketing with inert gases, operators can control the internal atmosphere and external influences effectively, making this method a key practice in process safety management.

This understanding highlights the importance of controlling both the chemical environment and the physical conditions within storage tanks to protect workers, the environment, and the facility itself.