Mantle Consultant Associates focuses on providing advice and technical assistance primarily within the storage tank industry with our Course Leader Dr Brian Quinn having more than 40 years’ experience and expertise in the international storage tankage business industry.
Interview Summary with Dr. Brian Quinn
Dr. Brian Quinn recently participated in an interview for a National TV station in conjunction with the two-day courses that he runs focused on the design, operation, maintenance, and safety of storage tanks, particularly with the aim to control hydrocarbon vapor emissions.
He has run these courses organised annually by Conference Connection in the UAE since November 2023 and to repeated on 15-17 October 2024. Also being launched is a new course on LNG Storage. Click here to access details of both courses.
Dr Quinn discussed salient points on the global storage market and industry trends during the interview:
General Outlook of the Tank and Terminal Sector
Dr. Quinn describes the outlook for the global storage tank market as mixed, varying significantly by geographical location. While the dependency on oil is increasing in some regions, developed nations are moving towards renewable and alternative energy carriers, leading to a projected decline in oil product demand. This shift is expected to reduce refining activities and the need for new storage facilities, though existing tanks at closed refineries might still be utilized.
Challenges in the Terminal Industry
Terminal companies primarily face challenges in improving productivity. Regulatory compliance related to health, safety, and environmental standards represents significant costs, and not all companies are willing to bear these expenses. Dr. Quinn emphasizes the importance of an enlightened management approach that invests in new technology, staff training, and cost control.
Strategies to Address Challenges
To tackle these challenges, Dr. Quinn recommends that terminal companies should extend the service life of tanks through regular inspection and maintenance, possibly using drones for remote inspections. He also suggests that some terminals might benefit from installing solar panels to generate green energy.
Advice on Oil Storage Tank Design
Dr. Quinn advises that the design of oil storage tanks should prioritize the control of vapor emissions. He emphasizes the importance of installing and maintaining proper equipment, such as Internal Floating Roofs on Fixed Roof Tanks, and a robust seal system on External Floating Roof Tanks.
Protecting Infrastructure and Data
Regarding security, Dr. Quinn notes that the risks to storage tank terminals' infrastructure and data are similar to those faced by many businesses, including threats from criminals, activists, and politically motivated groups. He recommends partnering with reputable security firms and ensuring that management commits the necessary resources to implement security measures effectively.
Insights from Past Incidents
Reflecting on major accidents like the Flixborough and Buncefield incidents, Dr. Quinn points out that while industry standards and safety procedures have significantly improved, human error remains a critical risk factor. These historical events underscore the necessity for ongoing improvements in safety and operational procedures.
Future Expectations
Looking ahead, Dr. Quinn anticipates that the next five years in the tank and terminal sector will still heavily rely on oil and gas, despite the growth of renewable energy sources. He predicts a steady demand for oil, provided prices remain around $50 per barrel. He also expects advancements in technology to extract lower quality oil reserves more cost-effectively.
In conclusion, Dr. Quinn suggests that just as the Stone Age didn’t end due to a lack of stones, the Oil Age will conclude not for a lack of oil but because of a transition to alternative energy sources, possibly nuclear. He remains optimistic about the ongoing relevance of oil in the near future and expresses enthusiasm for participating in this evolving industry.
Storage Tank Operation, Maintenance & Safety (STO)
15 - 16 October 2024, Dubai, UAE
LNG Storage Tanks: Design, Construction & Operation (LNGSTO)
17 October 2024, Dubai, UAE