Investigation of High-function Automatic Welding System for Membrane of In-ground LNG Storage Tank

Abstract

Improved construction techniques are necessary to reduce the cost and construction time, and to improve the working environment when constructing larger in-ground storage tanks.
This report covers the welding system we have been investigating to automate welding and inspection works for the tank membrane, which take some 50% of the overall membrane construction period. The system uses a vision sensor and welding head which can function in all welding positions. In the near future, a working process which enable to operate with very few workers will be established.