MESA 2D Testing

What it is

MESA 2D is a tightness-testing technology for underground fuel storage tanks. It detects micro-leaks down to 0.10 gph (gallons per hour) — the threshold the SNE applies in Panama to consider a tank tight.

The test measures pressure and level variation inside the tank under controlled conditions and separates thermal evaporation of the product from a real leak. The result is a measurable number, not a visual inspection.

Applicable standards

The 0.10 gph detection threshold is the technical value the SNE applies to define tightness in underground tanks. Installation, operation and testing practices are governed by the standards of thePetroleum Equipment Institute (PEI) and by theNFPA 30 (flammable and combustible liquids) andNFPA 30A (service stations) codes.

Master Services is a PEI member, which gives us direct access to updates of the recommended practices.

Process

1. 01Tank preparation: thermal and level stabilization.
2. 02Configuration of the MESA 2D equipment to the stored product.
3. 03Running the test under controlled conditions, with evaporation compensation.
4. 04Delivery of the report with the measured value and the comparison against the 0.10 gph threshold.
5. 05If the test does not pass, diagnosis of the likely source and a remediation recommendation.

Related case

We have run MESA 2D tests at Delta, Texaco and Terpel stations across Panama. See the Delta Galápagos case.