Pit Liners and Materials
Some of the terms often used as well as pit liners are oil remediation pads, lagoon liners, oilfield pits, waste treatment ponds, drilling pad liners, & temporary storage pits.
Western Environmental Liner provides a wide array of liner materials for these applications. Not all pits are made the same or intended for the same containment, so it is important to choose the proper material for your oilfield pit liners. We can also provide unique products that provide extra protection for particular projects. Please contact Western Environmental Liner to find out what options are available.
Understanding which pit liner is the best option requires an understanding of the properties of the liquid it will be containing.
If water containment is the pit liner’s main purpose, then we need to consider several factors:
- How long you need the liner to last
- Whether the liner will be buried or exposed to the sun
- How roughly the liner will be handled
Most likely Western Environmental Liner’s Aqua series of liners will be the best option for pit liners that will be primarily containing water. Pit liners where the containment of light chemical mixtures of parts per million and low levels of various byproducts might mean that pvc or polypropylene may be the best option.
For high levels of hydrocarbons such as oil, jet fuels, or heavy levels of various by-product, or waste, XR-5, which has high chemical resistance to most mixtures, may be the best choice.
With the strongest levels of chemicals and hydrocarbons, Western Environmental Liner can provide unique and custom frac pit liners and solutions created specifically for your particular application.
No matter which geomembrane liner is chosen, Western Environmental Liner can weld many pit liners in one large piece or offer turnkey installation with very large panels pre-welded in our factory to reduce field time and help prevent potential leaks from occurring.
Western Environmental Liner’s experience with many different chemical combinations helps you make the best pit liner choice for your particular application.
Please feel free to contact Western Environmental Liner for any questions you may have about your particular pit liner containment application.
1. What are pit liners and why are they important?
Pit liners are specialized geomembranes designed to line pits and ponds to prevent seepage of liquids into the surrounding environment. They are crucial for containing hazardous substances, protecting groundwater, and ensuring that stored liquids do not contaminate soil and water sources. By providing a barrier, pit liners help industries comply with environmental regulations and safeguard public health.
2. What are the common applications for pit liners?
Pit liners are used in various industries for multiple purposes:
- Mining: To contain and manage tailings, process water, and hazardous liquids.
- Agriculture: For lining irrigation ponds, animal waste lagoons, and water storage pits.
- Oil and Gas: To line drilling fluid pits, frac ponds, and secondary containment systems.
- Waste Management: To line landfill sites, leachate ponds, and waste treatment facilities.
- Construction: For stormwater retention basins and erosion control applications.
3. How do I choose the right pit liner for my application?
Selecting the appropriate pit liner involves considering several factors. Ensure the liner material is resistant to the chemicals it will be exposed to. Consider the climate and exposure to elements like UV radiation and temperature fluctuations. Assess the required durability, puncture resistance, and flexibility based on the site's physical characteristics. Verify that the liner complies with local and national environmental regulations. Also factor in the ease of installation and any maintenance needs specific to the liner material.
4. How is a pit liner installed?
Installing a pit liner involves several steps to ensure proper containment and longevity:
- Site Preparation: Clear the area of debris, rocks, and vegetation. The surface should be smooth and free of sharp objects.
- Liner Deployment: Unroll the liner material carefully over the prepared surface. Depending on the size, this may require multiple sheets that will be joined together.
- Seaming and Welding: For large areas, seams are welded or bonded to create a continuous barrier. This process must be done precisely to prevent leaks.
- Anchoring: The liner edges are anchored in trenches around the perimeter to secure it in place and prevent movement.
- Inspection and Testing: Conduct a thorough inspection to identify any potential weak spots or damage. Testing may include air pressure tests for seams and vacuum box testing.
- Covering (if required): Some applications may require the liner to be covered with soil, gravel, or another protective layer to shield it from mechanical damage and UV exposure.
5. What maintenance and inspection are required for pit liners?
Regular maintenance and inspection are critical to ensure the longevity and effectiveness of pit liners. Regularly check for signs of damage, such as tears, punctures, or UV degradation. Inspect welded seams periodically to ensure they remain intact and leak-free. Monitor the surrounding environment for any signs of leakage or contamination, especially in applications involving hazardous substances. Have a plan in place for immediate repairs if any damage is detected. This may involve patching small holes or replacing sections of the liner. Keep detailed records of inspections, maintenance activities, and any repairs conducted to track the liner's condition over time.
Please contact us via either e-mail or phone to help you choose the best pit liner for your application.
