TESTING OF DOUBLE DECK FLOATING ROOFS

GENERAL

Double deck Floating roof shall be subjected to all tests as per construction code. As per
code, water accumulation test on top deck in not mandatory for double deck floating roofs.
Tests to be carried out are:

 Compartment Puncture test

 Floatation test

COMPARTMENT PUNCTURE TEST

In double deck floating roof puncture test is to be conducted with puncture in any two
adjacent compartments.
Preliminary
While constructing floating roof, weld small bore threaded sockets with plugs in two
adjacent compartments. The sockets and plugs shall be of forged variety with NPT
threads, since leaks through the threaded portion shall pose problems during water
filling.
Method Step

 Obtain clearance from client / inspection agency to commence water filling.

 Raise level of floating roof to about 3.50 to 4.0 Metre above bottom plate.
 Provide plugs on emergency drains, siphon drain, as the case may be.
 Slowly remove plugs provided in two adjacent compartments
 Watch out as water enters the compartments.
 In the stabilized condition water level measured on outer rim near the punctured
compartments shall not exceed 65% of rim height.
 After successful completion of puncture test, close the plugs.
 Remove water from the compartments and dry the surface.
FLOATATION TEST:

This test ascertains buoyancy and stability of roof during its working life.

Method Step

Generally this test is not an independent test. Observations mentioned below shall be
recorded during filling of the tank for other tests, which are mandatory as per Code.

After conclusion of the mandatory puncture test, gradually raise water to maximum liquid
level.

Contd..2..
 TESTING OF DOUBLE DECK FLOATING ROOFS

-2-

As the roof moves up, observe the roof for its tilt, sideward movements, variation in rim gap,
gaps in the sleeve for Gauge Well, sweat marks on the deck / compartment welds etc. This
provides the basic information on the design adequacy and construction aspects.

Observe the movement of rolling ladder on the track.

Any abnormal tilting or side ward movement of the roof during floatation shall be noted and
remedial measure taken to rectify the roof, after lowering floating roof on its legs. This
should be completed before installing rim seal.
After completion of filling and observation:
 Lower the roof to its maintenance level.
 Remove water from the tank inside.
 Seal the plugs in compartments by welding.
 Provide an additional cap over the plugs and weld the same.
 Check the weld with dye penetrant.

Above procedure outlines basic steps for double deck floating roof tests.