How robotics is enhancing tank storage

The tank storage industry is undergoing a significant transformation as robotics redefines maintenance, inspection, and cleaning. Traditionally, these tasks have relied on human operators entering confined spaces, exposing them to significant health and safety risks while incurring substantial operational downtime costs. Robotics promises to change this paradigm, delivering safer, more efficient, cost-effective solutions.

The collaboration between SPRINT Robotics and StocExpo, as highlighted in their recent strategic partnership, signals the growing emphasis on robotic innovations within the tank storage sector. With robotics at the forefront of industry discussions, the sector is poised to benefit from enhanced operational capabilities and a shift towards sustainable practices.

The current state of tank storage maintenance

Aboveground storage tanks (AGSTs) have long been essential for storing fuels, chemicals, and other industrial materials. However, maintaining these critical assets presents complex challenges. Internal inspections, often mandated by stringent industry standards, require tanks to be emptied, cleaned, and prepared for human entry. These processes disrupt operations and entail high costs, including lost revenue during shutdowns.

Human entry into tanks carries inherent risks, such as exposure to hazardous substances, dangers in confined spaces, and operational accidents. Despite advances in safety protocols, reliance on manual inspections remains a bottleneck, limiting operational efficiency and increasing the potential for human error.

The industry’s collective goal is clear: to eliminate human entry into storage tanks and replace it with robotic solutions capable of performing the same tasks with higher precision and consistency. SPRINT Robotics has been at the forefront of this transition, advocating for the widespread adoption of robotics in the inspection and maintenance of capital-intensive infrastructure.

The role of robotics in tank storage

Robotics has emerged as a game-changer, enabling real-time, in-service inspection and cleaning of storage tanks without necessitating shutdowns. Robotic solutions include autonomous systems and tethered devices equipped with advanced sensors and imaging technologies capable of detecting anomalies, mapping metal loss, and assessing structural integrity.

One of the most significant advancements is the deployment of robotics for in-service inspection. By inspecting tanks while they remain operational, companies can reduce downtime, save costs, and optimise maintenance schedules. Additionally, robotic systems reduce reliance on opportunity maintenance, a common practice where repairs are carried out sub-optimally during scheduled shutdowns, by enabling targeted, data-driven interventions.

The guidelines developed by SPRINT Robotics for the application of robotics in AGSTs provide a critical framework for ensuring operational quality standards. These guidelines address key challenges, such as ensuring regulatory acceptance of robotic inspection results and promoting uniformity in operational procedures. By standardising robotic technologies, the guidelines pave the way for broader adoption across the industry.

Safety and efficiency through robotics

One of the primary drivers of robotics adoption in tank storage is improved safety. Robotics eliminates the need for human entry into tanks, removing personnel from hazardous environments. This shift significantly reduces the risk of accidents, exposure to toxic substances, and confined space-related incidents.

Robotic systems also bring unmatched efficiency to tank maintenance. Equipped with state-of-the-art sensors, these systems can provide detailed, high-resolution data on the condition of tank walls and bottoms. Advanced imaging technologies and machine learning algorithms further enhance their ability to identify potential issues, enabling predictive maintenance and extending the lifespan of assets.

For example, robotic cleaning systems can precisely remove residues and contaminants, optimising tank hygiene without manual intervention. This capability is especially crucial in industries where contamination risks, such as in the storage of biofuels or sensitive chemicals, are a critical concern.

Through initiatives like the Action Group Storage Tanks, SPRINT Robotics connects end-users with technology providers, accelerating the adoption of robotic solutions. Their partnership with StocExpo amplifies these efforts, creating a collaborative environment where industry stakeholders can explore robotics’ potential in addressing common challenges.

The SPRINT Robotics Pavilion at StocExpo 2025 will serve as a hub for showcasing cutting-edge robotic technologies, offering live demonstrations, and fostering dialogue on robotics applications. The event’s programme also includes a dedicated robotics breakfast, further emphasising the importance of these technologies in shaping the future of tank storage.

Overcoming barriers to adoption

Despite the clear benefits, adopting robotics in tank storage is not without challenges. One significant hurdle is regulatory acceptance. Industry standards and codes often lag technological advancements, creating uncertainty around validating robotic inspection results. Addressing this issue requires collaboration between technology providers, asset owners, and regulatory bodies to ensure that robotic inspections meet or exceed existing quality benchmarks.

Another challenge is integrating robotics into existing operations. Many storage facilities were not designed with robotics in mind, necessitating retrofits or adaptations to enable robotic access. However, these initial investments are often offset by long-term savings in operational costs and enhanced safety outcomes.

Finally, workforce training is crucial for the successful implementation of robotic technologies. Operators must have the skills to deploy, manage, and interpret data from robotic systems. As the industry moves towards robotics, investing in workforce development will be essential to maximise the benefits of these innovations.

A sustainable future for tank storage

Robotics enhances operational efficiency and safety and supports the tank storage industry’s sustainability goals. By enabling in-service inspections, robotic systems reduce the need for shutdowns, thereby minimising the environmental impact of maintenance activities. Furthermore, robotics contributes to better resource management by extending the lifespan of storage tanks and reducing material waste.

For example, robotic cleaning systems optimise the use of cleaning agents and water, aligning with broader efforts to reduce industrial resource consumption. Additionally, advanced robotics can support the transition to storing cleaner fuels, such as biofuels or hydrogen, by ensuring tanks meet the stringent requirements for these emerging markets.

Looking ahead with robotics as an industry standard

Integrating robotics into tank storage is no longer a question of if but when. As technologies continue to evolve and regulatory frameworks adapt, robotics is set to become a standard feature in the industry. Organisations like SPRINT Robotics are driving this transition, providing the tools, guidelines, and platforms needed to accelerate adoption.

By bringing together industry leaders, technology innovators, and end-users, these initiatives create a fertile ground for innovation and knowledge sharing. In the coming years, the tank storage sector will increasingly rely on robotics to address current challenges and seize new opportunities. From enhancing safety and efficiency to supporting sustainability goals, robotics represents a transformative force with far-reaching implications for the industry.

As the tank storage sector embarks on this journey, one thing is clear: robotics is not merely an addition to existing practices but a fundamental shift in how the industry operates. With safety, efficiency, and sustainability at its core, robotics is set to redefine the future of tank storage.