COMANCO Wraps Up Phase II of Secondary Fuel Containment System at Georgia Power Plant
Secondary containment around fuel storage tanks protects soil and groundwater from contamination. In active power generation environments, the risk is constant. Fuel systems operate continuously, and even minor leaks or spills can create long-term environmental and regulatory challenges when containment systems are not properly designed and installed.
When containment systems fail, facilities face costs beyond cleanup. Teams address regulatory violations, operational disruptions, and long-term liability associated with groundwater impacts. Secondary containment is not just a design requirement. It is a system that must perform reliably under real-world conditions.
Understanding the Risks in Active Fuel Storage Environments
Fuel storage areas create several challenges that demand careful attention. Tanks, piping penetrations, and operational traffic all introduce potential failure points within a containment system.
Crews must properly seal penetrations to maintain system integrity. Pipe boots, ranging from small-diameter to 18-inch connections, require precise installation to prevent leaks at interface points. Poor detailing at these penetrations can compromise the entire system.
Crews also install anchoring systems, such as batten bar, to secure the liner and maintain system performance under changing loads and temperatures. If installers do not maintain consistency, small errors can create stress points or separation over time.
Active facilities require constant coordination. Teams often work around operating equipment, restricted access areas, and ongoing site activities. Strong communication and clear sequencing enable crews to install the system without disrupting operations while maintaining quality standards.
Best Practices for Reliable Containment System Installation
Experienced contractors approach containment system installation with detailed planning and disciplined execution.
Teams select materials based on performance requirements. For fuel containment, crews often install 60 mil textured HDPE liner because it provides chemical resistance, durability, and stability on slopes and uneven surfaces. The textured surface increases friction and helps maintain placement across varying grades.
Field crews focus on consistency during installation. They complete and verify each seam, penetration, and termination detail. Installers properly fit and weld pipe boots to create a tight seal around each penetration. They align and secure the batten bar to maintain uniform pressure along the anchor points.
Quality control happens throughout the process. Crews perform seam testing, conduct visual inspections, and verify attachment points to confirm system performance before placing it into service.
Teams also maintain strong communication across all phases. Coordinated execution ensures each phase transitions smoothly into the next. This approach prevents rework and protects partially completed systems.
How COMANCO Executes Secondary Containment in the Field
COMANCO is completing the second phase of a secondary containment system for fuel tanks at an active power generation facility in Georgia. The team is installing approximately 60,000 SF of liner, over 250 LF of batten bar, and 30 pipe boots ranging in diameter from 2 to 18 inches.
Superintendent Pablo Medina leads field operations and reinforces consistent installation practices across all containment areas. As crews completed the final 15,000 SF of this phase, they reinforced consistent installation practices, focusing on seam quality, penetration detailing, and secure anchoring.
This project requires a phased approach. The team completes each phase with the next phase in mind. In the third and final phase, crews will reline an existing detention pond with approximately 58,000 SF of 60 mil textured HDPE liner. Careful planning ensures compatibility between containment systems and long-term performance.
COMANCO selected SKAPS liner material for its durability and performance in containment applications. The textured surface improves stability, while the HDPE composition resists the penetration of fuels and other hazardous materials.
Crews work within an active facility and coordinate daily with site operations. They manage access, sequence work areas, and adjust to site conditions while maintaining strict safety and quality standards.
Delivering Long-Term Environmental Protection
Secondary containment systems must perform for decades. Field execution determines whether the system will meet that expectation.
This project creates a reliable barrier around fuel storage tanks. The installed system contains oil and other hazardous materials and prevents them from reaching the surrounding soil and groundwater.
By focusing on proper installation, detailed quality control, and coordination within an active facility, COMANCO ensures that containment systems meet regulatory requirements and support long-term site sustainability.
When teams do the work right the first time, they reduce risk, avoid costly repairs, and protect both the environment and facility operations. In fuel storage applications, field execution determines performance.
SAFETY ★ QUALITY ★ SERVICE
COMANCO is an environmental, commercial, and civil construction company specializing in constructing containment facilities.
Secondary containment is a critical component of fuel storage infrastructure in active facilities. Poor installation can lead to costly environmental and operational issues over time. COMANCO delivers reliable containment systems built to perform in real-world conditions.
Contact COMANCO to learn how we can support your next project.
📍 4301 Sterling Commerce Dr, Plant City, FL 33566
📞 (813) 988-8829
🌐 www.comanco.com