Performing Inspections and Fiberglass Liner Repair

Fiberglass tanks are widely used in commercial and industrial facilities because of their durability, corrosion resistance, and long service life. However, even the most well-built systems can experience wear over time. When leaks, cracks, blistering, or delamination appear, a professional fiberglass liner repair is critical to prevent costly downtime and structural damage. At Picon FRP, Inc., proper testing and proven repair processes ensure dependable, long-lasting fiberglass tank repair and tank lining repairs.

Step 1: Initial Inspection and Assessment

Every successful repair begins with a thorough inspection. Technicians visually assess the tank interior and exterior for signs of:

Cracks or fractures
Blisters or bubbling in the liner
Chemical attack or soft spots
Delamination between layers
Joint or seam failure

Moisture intrusion, chemical exposure, and mechanical stress are common causes of liner failure. A detailed inspection determines whether the issue is localized or systemic, which guides the scope of the fiberglass liner repair.

Step 2: Non-Destructive Testing (NDT)

Visual inspection alone isn’t enough for reliable fiberglass tank repair. Professional contractors use non-destructive testing methods to evaluate structural integrity without causing further damage. Common tests include:

Spark Testing (Holiday Testing)

Spark testing detects pinholes, voids, or thin spots in the lining. A low-voltage electrical current is passed over the surface to identify breaches in the protective barrier.

Ultrasonic Thickness Testing

This test measures the thickness of the fiberglass laminate to determine whether structural reinforcement is needed during tank lining repairs.

Adhesion Testing

Adhesion tests evaluate how well the existing liner bonds to the substrate. Poor adhesion may require complete removal of compromised material before repairs can begin.

These diagnostic tools ensure that every fiberglass liner repair addresses the root cause of the issue—not just the visible symptoms.

Step 3: Surface Preparation

Proper surface preparation is one of the most critical steps in any fiberglass tank repair. The damaged area must be thoroughly cleaned and mechanically abraded to remove contaminants, loose material, and degraded resin.

This process may include:

Grinding or sanding to create a bonding profile
Removing damaged laminate layers
Cleaning with approved solvents
Ensuring the surface is dry and contaminant-free

Without meticulous preparation, new fiberglass layers will not properly bond, leading to premature failure.

Step 4: Laminate Rebuild and Resin Application

Once the surface is prepared, technicians apply new fiberglass mat and resin systems engineered for the specific chemical environment of the tank. The correct resin selection—such as vinyl ester or epoxy—is essential for long-term performance.

Multiple layers may be applied to restore structural integrity. Each layer must cure properly before additional laminate is added. Precision during this phase ensures the repaired area matches or exceeds original design specifications.

Step 5: Final Testing and Quality Assurance

After curing, the repaired area undergoes repeat testing to confirm the integrity of the tank lining repairs. Spark testing is often repeated to verify there are no voids or weak points. Final visual inspections confirm proper thickness, smoothness, and bonding.

Documentation of testing results provides facility managers with confidence that the fiberglass tank repair meets industry standards and operational requirements.

Trust the Experts at Picon FRP, Inc. Fiberglass Liner Repair

Reliable fiberglass liner repair requires experience, specialized testing, and strict adherence to proven processes. Picon FRP, Inc. delivers professional fiberglass tank repair and comprehensive tank lining repairs designed to extend equipment life and prevent costly failures. With detailed inspections, advanced testing methods, and precision workmanship, Picon FRP ensures your fiberglass tanks remain safe, compliant, and built to perform for years to come.