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Storage Placement

This Chapter contains information on:

• Domestic Tank Foundations
• Trenching Recommendations
• Tubing Installation
• Electrical

Domestic Tank Foundations

It has been noted that some Propane bulk storage tanks have been installed using concrete blocks for supports. This practice is definitely against all regulations for installations of bulk storage tanks. Some of the reasons for not using concrete blocks are listed below:

1. Storage tanks set on newly graded property can and have been known to topple over, breaking tubing and causing leaks and fires. By using recommended tank pads, the tank can still settle but in most causes not enough to cause the tank to topple or bend tubing and cause leaks or fires.
2. The weight-bearing surface of concrete blocks is very small compared to a recommended pad. The smaller block will increase settling if conditions are present.
3. Concrete blocks have been known to disintegrate under pressure. The recommended pad, being reinforced will not.

A suggested practice is to use the recommended pads, which are 30" long, 18" wide, and 2-4" thick, using two reinforcing rods 24-26" long. All tanks set with concrete blocks must be reset using recommended reinforced concrete pads.

Trenching Recommendations

It is recommended that a mechanical trencher be used and trenching be done to a depth of 18" to 24". This is to remove possibility of tubing damage from yard work or planting of shrubs or flowers.

Tubing Installation

1. For installations through walls or foundations, refer to National Fuel Gas Code Pamphlet 54, 3.1.5.
2. All pipe and tubing must be supported by clips, hangers, clamps, etc., National Fuel Gas Code, Pamphlet 54, 3.3.6.
3. See part 2 of National Fuel Gas Code Pamphlet 54, for all special piping regulations inside structures.

Electrical

Electrical equipment and wiring shall be of a type specified by and shall be installed in accordance with NFPA 70, National Electrical Code, for ordinary locations. NFPA Pamphlet 58, 3-7.2.1, page 58-41.

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