Decision-Tree for FP for Liquid Storage Tanks?

9/28/2023

Is there a decision tree, or other wholistic look at what is recommended for fire protection measures for flammable and combustible liquid storage tanks?

Does flashpoint of the liquid impact which system type to pursue?

This is specifically for liquid stored in day tanks inside a tank farm, but seeking out guidance here on choosing responsible systems overall.

Thanks in advance.

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3 Comments

Ryan Hinson

9/28/2023 09:10:49 am

No decision tree per say, but the requirements for whether active suppression is required for assumed atmospheric storage tanks (AST) will come from NFPA 30 and/or IFC, whichever applies to your jurisdiction...which is based on the classification of the stored product...which is based on flashpoint and as otherwise defined.

See definitions in NFPA 30 (2021) Chapter 4 or in IFC Section 202 (which are the same). Then go to the respective AST section of each Code as applicable:
- NFPA 30 Section 22.8.1 or
- IFC Section 5704.2.9.2.1

Both of these Codes require fire-extinguishing systems based on the liquid classification, storage volume, tank storage configuration, AND likely some AHJ opinion. It should be noted that these two Codes do NOT have the same thresholds where fire extinguishment system become mandatory. It is also possible (likely even) that the owner will have some sort of engineering practices or recommendations which may be in addition to the minimum code requirements.

It should also be noted that fire protection of such storage facilities extends well beyond just suppression requirements and includes tank spacing, groupings, secondary containment, and other environmental- and ERP-capability/preference dependent factors.

Where suppression is required by either NFPA 30 or IFC, it is to be designed IAW NFPA 11. This specific suppression means is then dependent on the specific tank storage configuration(s):
- exterior roof or open-topped?
- if floating roof, external per API Std 650 Annex C or internal per API Std 650 Annex H?
- full-surface- or rim-seal design?
- if rim-seal, top-of-seal or below-the-seal?
- if fixed roof, cone- or geodesic dome?
- tank diameter(s)?
- tank eave height(s)?

There are more considerations then can be put here. Involvement of a cognizant FPE is recommended to sift through all applicable project requirements in addition to consensus by all stakeholders prior to execution.

Good luck!

9/28/2023 09:17:16 am

Check out the NFPA Fire Protection Handbook Section 7: Storage and Handling of Materials, Chapter 2: Storage of Flammable and Combustible Liquids (page 7-15).

I don't see a decision tree, but there is a lot of great information on tank storage for flammable/combustible liquids.

Also you may want to check out Section 6, Chapter 12: Flammable and Combustible Liquids. There is a lot of good information on the chemical properties and hazards in this section that may assist you in justifying or ruling out certain options when storing these materials.

Dwight H Havens

9/28/2023 10:19:53 am

Ryan's comments (quoted below) should be headed no matter what code or standard you are using. Jumping into requirements without knowing and understanding where they come from is dangerous, which is why you never get to the protection requirements without going through the evaluation of the hazards presented. NFPA 30 chapters before Chapter 9 apply to the process in general, with Chapter 6, "Fire and Explosion Prevention and Risk Control" of great importance.

Ryan said, "It should also be noted that fire protection of such storage facilities extends well beyond just suppression requirements and includes tank spacing, groupings, secondary containment, and other environmental- and ERP-capability/preference dependent factors."

"There are more considerations then can be put here. Involvement of a cognizant FPE is recommended to sift through all applicable project requirements in addition to consensus by all stakeholders prior to execution."

JB's guidance on information resources is also important. I would also recommend that the 2024 edition of NFPA 30 be reviewed, even if it is not the edition in use in the jurisdiction.

The above are my personal opinions and are not to be taken as the opinion of the NFPA 30 committees on which I serve.

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Decision-Tree for FP for Liquid Storage Tanks?

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