ETP Table: Solutions for protecting AST storage tanks
In AST storage tanks , problems don't always begin with a visible failure. Vapor loss, seal deterioration, and other inefficiencies can progressively affect asset performance. To address these challenges, Mesa ETP develops engineering solutions designed to protect storage systems and improve their operational efficiency.
With a history dating back to 1967, the company manufactures specialized products for the oil industry and aboveground storage tanks, combining sealing systems, emissions control, drainage and components designed specifically for the conditions of each tank.
Nearly six decades developing solutions for AST tanks
Mesa ETP began operations in 1967 and has over five decades of experience serving the needs of the storage tank industry. Its products are used by oil companies, storage terminals, refineries, tank manufacturers, and specialized tank maintenance companies.
The company has three locations in the United States: its manufacturing headquarters are in Cincinnati, Ohio, and it has regional offices in Houston, Texas, and Monrovia, California. This infrastructure is complemented by a network of representatives and partner companies that allows it to extend its international support.
This scope reflects a philosophy based on developing solutions tailored to the specific conditions of each installation. In AST storage tanks, the dimensions, the stored product, and the component configuration can modify the system's technical requirements.
What problems does Mesa ETP seek to solve in the tanks?
A rupture is not necessarily the first sign of a problem; earlier signs may include vapor leaks, degradation of sealing systems, and inefficiencies that remain hidden during operation.
This perspective is especially relevant in floating roof tanks , where various components work together to maintain system performance. Therefore, Mesa ETP's offering extends beyond the individual supply of seals, focusing instead on protection systems developed to operate under real-world conditions.
Among its solutions are FlexCore™ Liquid Mounted Seal , proprietary materials for sealing applications, ClipLock fastening systems, and different configurations designed for handling vapors and liquids.
The principle behind this approach is customization. According to Mesa ETP, each product is designed specifically for the application because the characteristics and challenges are not identical from one tank to another.
Sealing systems to control emissions and losses
Tank sealing systems play an important role in vapor control and in the operation of tanks with internal and external floating roofs.
Mesa ETP manufactures sealing systems and materials that can be used in primary and secondary curtain seals, wedge seals for internal floating roof tanks (IFRT), foam log seals, tube seals and other applications.
The company also manufactures components from its proprietary materials to serve different points of the AST storage tanks, including roof leg covers and gauge pole covers.
These solutions aim to help tank owners reduce emissions and product losses , prevent the release of pollutants into the atmosphere, and respond to environmental and regulatory requirements associated with storage operations.
FlexCore™ and solutions for floating roofs
Among the solutions mentioned by Mesa ETP is FlexCore™ Liquid Mounted Seal, developed for sealing applications in tanks.
This type of solution is part of a broader portfolio designed for both external floating roof tanks (EFRTs) and internal floating roof tanks (IFRTs). In these installations, the sealing system must be properly integrated with the other components to ensure optimal operational performance.
Specific engineering for each tank takes on special importance here. Mesa ETP points out that no two tanks or two challenges are exactly the same, so their products are configured according to the particular needs of the application.
This philosophy allows tank protection to be approached as a system in which seals, materials, drains, and other components must function in an integrated manner.
Floating roof drains with flexible piping
Managing water that accumulates on a floating roof presents another operational need. For these applications, Mesa ETP develops tank drainage systems using flexible piping.
Their options include the Resist-All-Clad and Armor-Clad systems, used in floating roof drains, skimmers, and foam systems.
The flexible tubing is custom-made for each tank to achieve a consistent and predictable positioning pattern that does not interfere with other internal components. The drainage systems also incorporate smooth internal passages designed to facilitate fluid flow.
The selection also depends on the product stored; Mesa ETP's engineering team works with the customer to determine which flexible pipe alternative is compatible with the particular conditions of the installation.
When these systems are installed correctly, the company notes that there are applications of its flexible piping that have remained in service for 20 years or more.
Emission control in storage tanks
Emissions reduction is another core area of Mesa ETP's portfolio. The company offers emissions controls, sealing systems, and materials developed to meet the requirements of AST storage tanks.
Its application pursues two related objectives: to meet the environmental requirements of the facility and to reduce losses of the stored product.
In this context, the systems can intervene at different points where there is a potential for vapor release. Mesa ETP manufactures materials for primary and secondary seals, gauge pole covers, leg boots, gaskets, and other components used in floating roof tanks.
The proper integration of these solutions can contribute to both environmental compliance and operational efficiency of internal and external floating roof tanks.
Custom engineering for each tank
A cross-cutting feature of Mesa ETP's storage tank solutions is their customized engineering approach.
Instead of assuming that the same configuration can be used interchangeably in any installation, the company starts from the specific characteristics of the tank and the application requirements.
This methodology is particularly visible in flexible piping systems; each configuration is manufactured to fit the corresponding tank, considering both its path and the interaction with other components.
The engineering team also participates in selecting the appropriate product based on the stored liquid and operating conditions. In this way, the solution is defined by the application, not just the individual component.
Comprehensive protection of storage systems
The reliability of a tank depends on multiple components operating simultaneously. Seals, drains, vapor control systems, and fasteners can all influence its performance during service.
Therefore, Mesa ETP's approach consists of addressing these elements as part of protection systems for AST storage tanks.
Their solutions include flexible pipes for drainage, skimmers and foam systems; sealing materials and systems; emission reduction products; gauge pole covers; leg boots and other specialized applications.
This combination allows us to address needs associated with liquid movement, vapor control, product loss reduction, and the performance of floating roof components.
ETP table and the evolution of storage tanks
After nearly six decades in the market, Mesa ETP maintains its specialization in engineered products for the oil industry and storage systems.
Their experience includes applications in refineries, terminals, oil companies, manufacturers, and tank maintenance companies. Furthermore, their US-based structure and international partnership network broaden the reach of their products and support.
In a sector where some inefficiencies can develop before becoming obvious failures, a preventative approach is especially important. Designing each solution considering the specific conditions of the tank allows for addressing aspects such as sealing, drainage, and emissions control from an integrated perspective.
Protecting AST storage tanks requires attention to both visible failures and progressive problems related to vapors, seals, and operational efficiency. Mesa ETP addresses these needs with customized sealing, drainage, and emissions control systems. Their experience since 1967 and application-specific design support an approach where the various components work as part of an integrated tank solution.