Speaker’s name: Adam Vance
Organization: Mesa Engineered Tank Products (Mesa ETP)
Job title: General Manager
Biography:
Adam Vance is a visionary leader, patent holder, and technical expert with over 20 years of experience advancing innovation and operational excellence in the aboveground storage industry. As the general manager for Mesa ETP, Adam leads business innovation, commercial activities, engineering, and quality initiatives, guiding a team that develops custom-engineered solutions for ASTs, including drains, floating roof seals, vapor barrier fabrics, and more.
He played a pivotal role in the integration of WG Seals into Mesa Engineered Tank Products and was instrumental in the design and execution of the award-winning FlexCore™ liquid-mounted seal and Armor Fabric™ technology. Adam is also a named inventor on the ClipLock™ fabric attachment system, now officially patented.
In addition to his engineering achievements, Adam is an active member of the API Committee on Evaporative Loss Estimation (CELE), contributing his expertise to help shape industry standards. His background includes a BS in Mechanical Engineering and certifications in Design Thinking, Advanced Product Quality Planning, Six Sigma, Toyota Production System, Statistical Stability and Capability, and Failure Modes Effect Analysis.
Adam’s passion for innovation and commitment to excellence continue to drive meaningful advancements in tank sealing technologies, helping clients across the globe achieve safer, more efficient, and environmentally compliant storage operations.
Presentation title: Redefining the Rim: Disrupting the Rim Seal Status Quo in Aboveground Storage Tank Design
Presentation abstract/summary:
Rim seals in above ground storage tanks (ASTs) play a crucial role in reducing vapor loss, protecting product integrity, and ensuring fire safety - yet the majority of systems in use today are based on outdated designs and legacy standards. Mechanical shoe, liquid-mounted, and vapor-mounted seals all come with significant operational drawbacks, from mechanical wear to poor emissions control. As environmental regulations tighten and safety demands grow, these weaknesses are no longer acceptable.
This presentation challenges the long-held assumptions behind traditional rim seal technology. We’ll examine where conventional designs fall short and explore new frontiers in materials science and seal geometry that offer a smarter, more resilient alternative.
Attendees will walk away with a fresh perspective on rim seal engineering, one that prioritizes performance, longevity, and compliance. The session aims to spark industry dialogue and encourage a shift toward more robust, adaptive, and sustainable rim seal solutions. It's time to move beyond “good enough” and reimagine rim seals for the future of tank safety and sustainability.