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Tank Cleaning

Once diesel leaves the refinery, it is subject to contamination at every point along the supply chain. Water and condensation, corrosion deposits, microbial growth and even the diesel itself can present problems over time.
We clean fuel and chemical tanks from 150 litres to 10,000 tonnes. Our highly experienced personnel use advanced equipment to ensure the tank is safely cleaned with the minimum of disruption. We have various solutions to remove water and sediment from oil, and oil from water. Whenever possible, we clean tanks using non-entry techniques; however where entry is required we only use personnel who are trained and experienced in confined space entry and the use of breathing apparatus.

By designing specialist in-house cleaning systems, we minimise the waste generated and time taken. Safety standards are also maximised by reducing manual tasks and confined space entry. Using automated washing systems, the danger of working at heights inside tanks has been eliminated.

Non Confined Space Entry Tank Cleaning

In today’s safety conscious work place, the preferred option is of no-man entry into a confined space, in fact according to current legislation all efforts must be made to avoid confined space entry and if possible eliminate the requirement for it:

HSA Code of Practise for Working in Confined Spaces

Employers, self-employed or others in control to any extent of a work activity must take account of the inherently higher risk to safety and health which entry into a confined space entails while planning that work activity. All methods of carrying out the work which enable the purpose to be achieved without the need to enter the confined space should be considered. The measures which avoid the need for entry, might involve changing work practices or equipment, or dismantling a structure prior to entry.


If an alternative method of carrying out work is reasonably practicable and if it entails a lower overall risk to safety and health, it must be used. In order to ensure that entirely new hazards are not introduced or other risks increased, those in control must consider carefully the full impact of any proposals and weigh up the pros and cons of the various options.


Where entry into a confined space for certain work is required on a periodic basis the frequency of entry should be minimised as far as practicable. Examples of modified working practices that prevent the need for entry include:


  • Sampling the atmosphere or contents of confined spaces from outside using long tools and probes, etc.

  • Cleaning a confined space, or removing residues from it, from the outside using water jetting, steam or chemical cleaning, long- handled tools, or in-place cleaning systems.

Accordingly, Fleury Engineering has developed a range of technologies and methods to clean tanks and vessels either remotely or with minimum man entry. At Fleury Engineering, we can now reduce or even eliminate the need for confined space entry for manual tank cleaning by incorporating automated tank cleaning devices into the process. Drop the device into the tank or enclosed space – not people.

The use of specialist tank cleaning heads provide a remote cleaning solution and allow for tanks and vessels to be cleaned with minimal requirement for man entry. We have a range of specialist cleaning heads which can be configured to meet the entry points of the tank / vessel.

Automated tank cleaning devices ensure a safe, effective clean that produces excellent results – every time. Not only that, they are proven to reduce time spent cleaning by as much as 80%.

For tanks that were to be cleaned from the top without undergoing CSE, there are two issues which arise:

  • It is impossible to clean the entire tank due to the restrictions encountered working from the manlid. This applies to both horizontal and vertical cylindrical tanks.
  • It is impossible to remove all the water/ moisture from the tank leading to potential future contamination for fuel.

Our tank cleaning system overcomes both these issues by cleaning every part of the tank and by flushing through with product, removing all water from the tank when product is to be reintroduced back into the tank.

In the event of a man-entry requirement, our highly trained workforce specialises in all aspects of confined space entry and rescue. Equipped with an extensive range of breathing apparatus, emergency escape equipment and gas monitoring equipment along with detailed procedures and safe systems of work, we ensure that our clients’ confined space working requirements are safely and efficiently carried out.

Fleury Engineering’s tank and vessel experience covers a broad spectrum of industries, onshore and offshore Oil & Gas, Petrochemical, Power, Utilities, Pharmachem and Marine.

Work With Us

Industry has trusted our qualified, experienced team since 1999 to provide a high-value, expert service that reduces environmental impact, reduces costs and protects reputations.  We look forward to finding and implementing the best solution for your project.

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