What is one method to inert a tank?

Displacing oxygen with dry ice (CO2) is an effective method to inert a tank because carbon dioxide is a non-flammable gas that can replace oxygen in the tank’s atmosphere. By using dry ice, you create a condition within the tank that lacks the oxygen necessary for combustion or oxidation reactions to occur. This is particularly important when working with flammable materials, as it minimizes the risk of fire or explosion during tank maintenance or cleaning processes.

Inerting a tank helps to create a safe working environment by reducing the chances of ignition sources coming into contact with flammable vapors. The use of dry ice ensures that not only is the oxygen level significantly lowered, but it also helps to maintain a cool temperature, further enhancing safety.

Other methods may not provide the same level of effectiveness in displacing oxygen or maintaining inert conditions. For example, simply reducing tank pressure does not guarantee that there will be a sufficient reduction in oxygen levels; it may still leave flammable vapors present. Adding water to the tank could potentially exacerbate problems if the materials in the tank are not compatible with water. Lastly, using an air compressor would introduce air into the tank, which contains oxygen, contradicting the primary goal of inerting.