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What are thew various problems associated with the construction of large tanks. Give examples to support your answer

Corrosion is a serious problem in water tanks.  The metal walls break down due to an electrochemical reaction.  Electrons flow from the walls of the tank (the anode) into the water (the cathode.) The third component of the corrosion battery is a closure circuit - a surface linking the anode and cathode through which electrons can flow.  A paint coating protects against corrosion by forming a physical barrier between the anode and the cathode.  The other type of protection, cathodic protection, provides a replacement anode so that the tank walls do not corrode.  Each type of corrosion protection has advantages and disadvantages when used singly, and they can also be used in combination.  
Tank maintenance is essential to prevent costly tank failure. The tank should be inspected by an independent inspector at least every two or three years.  Some water works choose to hire an annual maintenance service to perform yearly inspections and maintenance.  In either case, the inspector will determine what type of maintenance should be performed.  

The first step during painting, a common maintenance procedure, is to empty the tank and clean the tank surface.  Next, a primer coat should be applied and then a protective coat.  Finally, the tank is cured and sterilized before being placed back into service.


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