Hima-Sella introduces tank overfill protection

Hima-Sella has developed the Tank Overfill Protection Solution (TOPS) for single, multiple or networked tanks.

The Hima-Sella TOPS is compatible with a range of detectors and can communicate with leading DCS manufacturers, allowing a simple interface to other safety-related applications and process management systems.

The TOPS uses the Hima Himatrix range of programmable logic controllers with suitable transmitters and valves and is suitable for use in loops up to and including SIL 3.

Hima-Sella developed TOPS in response to regulations introduced by the UK Petroleum Industry Association and the Tank Storage Association in the wake of the 2005 Buncefield explosion.

This incident happened when an overfilled tank allowed the formation of a rich fuel and air vapour.

As the tank continued to receive fuel via the pipeline, the vapour built up and spread across the site, leading to several explosions and large fires across the fuel depot and surrounding buildings.

The Hima-Sella system addresses this by receiving inputs from level detectors in the storage tank.

Once the fuel level within the tank reaches capacity, the Himatrix closes the valve on the filling pipeline, preventing overfill.

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