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| The low profile and small size of the Interstitial Switch makes it ideal for leak detection in double-walled tanks. |
The use of aboveground storage tanks presents several concerns for both level measurement and leak detection. Aboveground storage tanks are subject to both U.S. Federal regulations and State and local regulations. Such aboveground storage tanks need to meet the U.S. EPA's Spill, Prevention, and Countermeasure (SPCC) requirements (40 CFR, Part 112). This particular regulation applies to any single storage tank with a capacity greater than 660 gallons or a multiple-tank site with a combined capacity greater than 1,320 gallons. In 1984 the U.S. EPA was authorized to develop regulations for underground storage tank systems as well. The EPA formed the Office of Underground Storage Tanks to carry out the mandate from Congress. Their federal regulations went into effect in December 1988. These regulations provide for the Office of Underground Storage Tanks to approve state programs. States with approved programs operate in lieu of the federal regulations. Currently 29 states (plus the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico) have approved underground storage tank programs. As of March 31, 2002, 422,573 releases had been reported from underground storage tank systems. These reported releases resulted in cleanup costs and, in some cases, required emergency responses. Such releases can be caused by leaks, spills, and overfills of the underground storage tank. One technology that has been used to accomplish both leak detection and overfill protection is float switches that use reed switch technology. With this technology having longstanding service reliability, the old adage of "an ounce of prevention being worth a pound of cure" is particularly relevant.
Contact Madison today to learn more about our liquid level float switch offerings!
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