3-4.
Visual Inspection Procedure
Tanks should be visually inspected every three to six months, depending
upon frequency of use.
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
Position tank on a clean, smooth surface, so that it is easily
accessible on all sides.
Inflate the tank to shape (approximately 1 PSI).
Inspect hardware for damage and sharp edges. Sharp edges should be
filed smooth to prevent damage to the tank body. Damaged hardware
should be replaced.
(Paras. 3-6 and 3-7).
Torque all bolts on clamp fittings. Use 70 ± 5 ft. lbs.
Inspect tank body by rolling from side to side. Carefully inspect
for cuts, tears, bruises, chafe marks, loose edges, or any surface
looseness.
Whenever damage is discovered, even if it extends only through the
external covering, repairs should be made at once.
3-5.
Emergency Temporary Repairs (Exterior)
a.
Emergency Repairs with Sealing Clamps
(1) Small slits, tears or cuts (not to exceed 6½ inches in length)
will be repaired with sealing clamps.
(Fig. 3-1).
(2) The size of the damaged tank area (opening) needing repair
govern the size and applicability of the clamp to effect a
tank repair.
The following criteria is furnished as guidance
in selection of appropriate size clamp:
(a) For holes (tears) up to 2 inches in length, install the
3 inch sealing clamp.
(b) For holes (tears) 2 to 4 inches in length, install the
5 inch sealing clamp.
(c) For holes (tears) 4 to 6½ inches in length, install the
7½ inch clamp.
(3) It may be necessary to increase the size of the tears slightly
with a pocket knife in order to be able to insert the bottom
plate of the sealing clamp.
(4) Slip the bottom plate of the sealing clamp through the hole or
tear and rotate it until it is centered and parallel to the
t e a r .
(5) Center the top plate of the sealing clamp on the threaded
shank and directly over the bottom plate.
3-4
