Site Preparation for Liquid Natural Gas Tank 

Planning to expand their storage capacity at one of their Florida terminals, our client invested in an additional storage tank measuring 150 ft in diameter. Their chosen location for the installation included a bed of limestone covered with a soft clay layer. Without intervention, the tank was at risk of uneven settlement if constructed on the unprepared soil. This would create potential for significant structural problems, including distortion of the tank shell and bottom, and potential leaks. To help prevent warping and facilitate the new tank’s longevity, ground stabilization was needed.  

To mitigate these issues, our team stepped in to assist with the necessary ground improvement and deep foundations work, helping to extend the storage tank’s lifespan and maintain its structural integrity. The scope of work included early site works, design and installation of rigid inclusions, and design and placement of the load transfer platform. Our team installed over two hundred rigid inclusions for the tank foundation, including a test pile program, which evaluated the performance of the piles through static load tests. Once the rigid inclusions were constructed, we installed the Load Transfer Pad. After our team completed this groundwork, other essential components such as the Ringwall Foundation, the Claymax liner, the Cathodic Protection system, and sand could be installed.

Our deep foundations work significantly increased the bearing capacity of the soil, ensuring that the foundation could support the weight of the new storage tank without excessive settlement, maintaining the integrity and functionality of the tank. By providing a robust and reliable foundation, we helped our client safeguard their investment and ensure the long-term durability and reliability of their new storage tank.