Flammable liquids external storage

Dry chlorine, in either the gaseous or liquid state, can be handled satisfactorily in carbon steel containers/cylinders. The dry chlorine is transported in cylinders up to 75 kg capacity or in one-ton containers. All containers, whether empty or full, must be stored in a dry area and protected from external heat sources such as steam pipes. If stored outdoors, they must be protected from direct sunlight, rain and snow. Chlorine containers should be segregate from other compressed gas containers. Containers must never be stored near anhydrous ammonia, hydrocarbons or flammable materials. The storage area must be well ventilated and underground storage must be avoided. 

In the catalyst preparation area where the fire occurred, aluminum alkyl and isopentane are mixed in a batch blending operation in three 8000-gallon kettles. The flow rates of components are regulated by an operator at the control room. Temperature, pressure, and liquid level within the kettles are monitored by the control room operator. The formulated catalyst is stored in four 12,000-gallon vertical storage tanks within this process unit. Aluminum alkyl is a pyrophoric material and isopentane is extremely flammable. Each vessel was insulated and equipped with a relief valve sized for external fire. 

Flash Point. The flash point of a liquid is a measure of the flammability of its vapors on application of an external flame. It is used to assess fire hazards. The flash point of paints may have to be measured to comply with legal requirements relating to the storage, transportation, and use of flammable products. According to ISO 1523, the flash point (closed cup) is the minimum temperature to which a product, confined in a closed cup, must be heated for the vapors emitted to ignite momentarily in the presence of a flame, when operated under standard conditions. 

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