5 Signs You Need to Repair Your Chemical Tank

Chemical tanks are vital for safe storage and processing in industries like chemical manufacturing, steel, power, and water treatment. But even the best-designed tanks are at risk for leaks, corrosion, and structural damage over time. Recognizing early warning signs can help you avoid costly spills, environmental violations, and unplanned shutdowns. Here are five critical signs your chemical tank may need professional repair—and how RAK Industrial Services can keep your operation protected.

1. Visible Leaks, Dampness, or Product Loss

Any sign of liquid seeping from a chemical tank is an emergency. Leaks signal through-wall corrosion, failed welds, or gasket issues. Even minor damp spots or unexplained drops in tank levels require immediate inspection.

Warning signs:

• Wet streaks, stains, or small puddles near the tank
• Drop in tank fluid level with no clear cause
• Noticeable odor or vapor, especially with volatile chemicals

2. Corrosion, Rust, or Pitting

Corrosive chemicals, harsh cleaning, and age all eat away at tank walls over time. Surface rust can quickly progress to pitting or through-wall corrosion—leading to product loss and safety hazards.

Warning signs:

• Flaking, red/orange discoloration, or bubbling paint
• Pitting or roughness on tank surfaces, especially at seams and welds
• Corrosion around nozzles, manways, or support structures

3. Damaged or Failing Linings/Coatings

Interior linings and exterior coatings are your first line of defense against chemical attack and abrasion. When these protective layers blister, peel, or crack, the underlying tank is left vulnerable.

Warning signs:

• Peeling, blistered, or missing coating inside or outside the tank
• Color changes or exposed bare metal
• Change in product quality, color, or contamination

4. Structural Deformation, Dents, or Cracks

Tanks exposed to impact, shifting foundations, or over-pressurization can develop deformations or cracks. Even small changes in tank shape can compromise structural integrity.

Warning signs:

• Visible dents, bulges, or cracks
• Settlement at tank supports or shifting of the tank base
• Unusual noises during filling, draining, or operation

5. Frequent or Chronic Repairs

If you’re patching the same area repeatedly or using multiple temporary fixes, it’s time for a comprehensive assessment. Chronic leaks or corrosion are signs of deeper systemic issues.

Warning signs:

• Continued presence of patches or clamps
• Multiple repair records for the same tank
• Persistent compliance or safety concerns

What To Do If You Spot These Signs

• Schedule Immediate Inspection:
  Don’t wait—contact a qualified repair partner for a rapid assessment. RAK Industrial Services offers 24/7 emergency response and on-line leak repair to minimize risk and downtime.

• Consider Advanced Repair Solutions:
  RAK provides carbon fiber composite wraps, high-performance linings, trowel-applied spot repairs, and specialty coatings for even the harshest chemical environments.

• Document and Prevent Future Issues:
  Keep records of inspections and repairs, and consider a regular maintenance plan to catch early signs of trouble.

Why Choose RAK Industrial Services?

• Emergency on-line repairs—minimizing downtime, product loss, and regulatory risk
• Advanced coatings, linings, and carbon fiber reinforcement for lasting durability
• Turnkey project management, from inspection to QA
• Decades of proven experience in chemical and industrial tank repair

Ignoring early warning signs in your chemical tank risks product loss, safety incidents, and costly regulatory problems. By partnering with RAK Industrial Services, you get rapid, engineered repairs that restore tank integrity and protect your operation from the inside out.