SARPI Netherlands, based in Almelo, specialises in recycling and processing chemical waste streams, including the distillation of solvents and the treatment of wastewater. Faced with a growing capacity shortage, SARPI identified the need for a new tank farm comprising 14 stainless steel storage tanks.
Roy Kobes, operations manager at SARPI, highlighted the project’s motivation: “It became increasingly difficult to schedule and process all our customers’ requests due to the limited capacity of our existing tank farm. We had to sell our materials even before they arrived, as they needed to be dispatched the next day. That’s when we engaged Actemium to help us determine the best solution.” Actemium is known for providing industrial services and solutions that enhance and optimise production processes.
The Project Request
Process Engineer Ben Brons from Actemium played a key role throughout the project. He detailed the initial request: “We began developing the initial plans in 2019, and Gpi prepared quotes for us at that time. However, the COVID-19 pandemic and internal shifts at SARPI caused delays. We reconnected with Gpi in early 2023, placed the order for the tanks in May, and by January 2024, the tanks were fully installed.”
Choosing Gpi
Discussing the decision to partner with Gpi, Roy stated: “We’re required to seek quotes from multiple suppliers, so we approached Gpi and another tank manufacturer. We chose Gpi because they had the capacity to deliver within our time frame and budget. Our positive previous experiences with Gpi also played a part in our choice. Communication during the sales phase was clear, and interactions were pleasant.”
The Assignment
SARPI’s request was for 14 stainless steel tanks: ten with a capacity of 40 m³, two of 100 m³, and two of 145 m³. Roy elaborated: “We selected 40 m³ tanks to fully unload a tanker truck into them. These tanks have diverse uses, while the 100 m³ tanks serve as mixing or buffer tanks for distillation. The largest tanks, at 145 m³, are used for a specific product that must remain uncontaminated.” All tanks are constructed from stainless steel 316L and feature a Klöpper top and 90° conical bottom, and they are PED CE-certified. Roy added: “We chose PED pressure tanks since other parts of our tank farm use them, and we’re already familiar with them.”
Transport and Installation
Both Roy and Ben conducted inspections at Gpi twice during production. Ben described these visits: “The process was seamless. We checked the drawings and visited the factory for an on-site inspection. One tank was still horizontal, which allowed us to inspect the welds from the inside. The visits were well-organised, and there were minimal remarks.”
The Collaboration
Roy praised the partnership with Gpi: “The project ran smoothly. Gpi is a professional company, and communication was consistent. Deadlines were met, and safety, as well as our company’s policies, were duly considered. The documentation provided after completion was thorough.” Ben added: “Working with Gpi reduced our workload significantly. We only needed to review the drawings and prepare a solid foundation; Gpi managed the engineering and installation.”
The Outcome
Roy expressed satisfaction with the new tank farm: “The fourteen new tanks have made our operations much easier. We now have tanks that can accommodate a full truckload and provide greater flexibility for customer scheduling without constant limitations. The additional capacity brings a sense of peace and efficiency to our workflow.”
For more information visit www.gpi-tanks.com
