Tank Heaters for Shale Gas Storage

Last updated on September 11th, 2020 at 02:25 pm

The shale boom in the USA has hit peak productivity. While Americans enjoy the benefits of plentiful, cheap gas, producers face new challenges. Namely, there is an increased need for shale gas storage due to the vast quantities produced.

To maintain the quality and usability of stored gas, careful temperature maintenance is essential. Producers require tank heaters that can operate reliably, affordably, and accurately. To this end, electric power is becoming the first-choice in tank heaters for shale gas storage.

Tank Heater Considerations for Gas Storage

The unique environments, processes, equipment, and products of each specific application require special consideration when choosing tank heaters for gas storage. We explore a few of the key factors to consider when selecting a tank heater.

Temperature Protection

In cold or mild climates, freeze protection is a key need for tank heaters in gas storage vessels. Tank heaters require intelligent digital control panels that can react immediately to falling temperatures, preventing freezing or damage to the product. This ensures low operational costs, as the heater only needs to run when temperatures drop. Proper insulation is also important, as it reduces temperature loss, reducing the frequency which heaters must run.

With oil and gas products, temperature protection is also important at the other end of the spectrum. If temperatures rise too high there are risks of ignition or explosion, as well as damage to products. To mitigate this risk, select tank heaters compatible with automatic shut off switches.

Explosion-Proof Housing

With the potential for explosion, equipment should be chosen to protect the safety of your operation. Wattco uses NEMA 7 rated explosion-proof enclosures for oil and gas applications. This contains ignitions, minimizing potential damage and safety risks. 

Tank Size

The ideal heater for storage vessels depends heavily on the size of the tank. Large vessels typically use flanged heaters which are welded directly into the tank. Their use in closed vessels makes flanged heaters appropriate for potentially flammable or explosive mediums. 

Flanged immersion heaters can use custom heating element configurations for the specific size and shape of the tank. This ensures even heating as well as rapid heating times.Tank Immersion Heater

For smaller tanks, screwplug heaters are the most efficient solution. They screw directly into the tank, which also makes them suitable for closed vessels.

In open tanks, over-the-side heaters can be extremely useful and versatile. OTS heaters are ideal for tanks that require cleaning, repairs, or replacement as the heater is easily installed and removed. This allows for cleaning or maintenance without having to drain the storage vessel.

Metrics

Oil and gas storage tank heaters need to carefully select their metrics and settings. Specific temperatures, power, wattages, and viscosities ensure optimal storage conditions for the target medium. Wattco representatives can help you select the correct settings for your tank heating system.

Advantages of Electric Tank Heaters for Oil & Gas Storage

Electric heaters outperform traditional combustion heating systems. In the oil and gas industry, electric power is especially beneficial.

 

  • Accuracy: Electric power achieves temperatures and maintains them with greater precision.
  • Automation: Electric tank heaters are designed for use with automated digital control panels and work effectively with thermocouples and other important components.
  • Costs/Efficiency: Electric power has a lower cost than fossil fuels and is more efficient. As a result, electricity increases capabilities while reducing operational costs.
  • Replaceable Elements: The simple design allows for fast, cost-efficient repairs, without having to replace the whole system. Heating elements are easily replaced.
  • Responsiveness: Combining electric power with direct heating ensures the fastest heating times, maximizing responsiveness, reducing operational costs, and reducing the risks of freezing damage.

 

Tank Heater Quotes & Information

Wattco custom-manufactures electric tank heaters for oil and gas storage. Our team helps you select the right designs, heater type, and options to support your specific needs and budget.

Contact Wattco today for tank heater quotes and information.

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