Winter Skim Oil Tank Debulking
Cascade was contracted to clean and debulk a skim oil tank containing approximately 8,500 cubic meters of solids. The job took place during Northern Alberta’s harsh winter months, where sub-zero temperatures and freeze-thaw cycles presented major operational and safety challenges. Limited to only two truck-out ports, access points for product removal were minimal. The internal solids were heat-baked and extremely compacted, forming a hardened mass that was difficult to break down using traditional methods. Manual cleaning was not feasible without significant risk and downtime.
SOLUTION
Cascade deployed its zero-entry robotic cleaning system. Using tank sweeps through existing manway ports, hot water at 85°C and chemical agents were injected to liquefy the dense material and safely reduce product levels. A 360-degree rotating camera was inserted to remotely monitor the interior, confirming when manways were free of obstruction. Once cleared, robotic wash cannons were used to break down remaining solids and complete the tank cleaning. All equipment was fully winterized to handle extreme cold and maintain uninterrupted operations.
RESULTS
In 24 days, Cascade removed 7,000 cubic meters of solid waste using zero-entry methods. The job was completed without any confined space entries, eliminating 3,456 man-hours of high-risk manual cleaning. Despite severe weather and limited tank access, the project was completed efficiently and ahead of schedule, allowing the customer to return the tank to full operation faster than expected.
IMPACT
Enhanced safety, faster turnaround, and zero confined space entries—even in extreme cold weather conditions.
