5 Reasons Why Your Business Needs Custom GFRP Pipe?

Author: Shirley

Aug. 19, 2024

5 Reasons to use Fiber-Reinforced Polymer (FRP)

When selecting a building material for an infrastructure project, there are a few key factors to consider before making a decision. Engineers must be sure to make selections that will benefit both the people within their agency, who will be working with the material, as well as the project&#;s end users.

If you are looking for more details, kindly visit Yongchang.

One such material is fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP), which can be hugely beneficial for both builders and users. Read more below to find out how this unique material can work for you.

1. Production and Installation Time

When developing the design for your overall infrastructure plan, it&#;s important to factor in the amount of time that will be needed not only for the whole project, but also for each step within the process. Obviously, saved time translates to saved costs, but you certainly don&#;t want to sacrifice quality for efficiency. FRP can provide an ideal balance, helping to save valuable production time while still providing the necessary quality, strength and durability. Below, compare the production and installation time of FRP to that of precast concrete:

As you can see from the chart, FRP&#;s total production time is 15 days less than that of precast concrete. This translates to more than two weeks&#; worth of saved labor costs and overall downtime for infrastructure development. FRP also requires less total installation time than precast concrete &#; almost five days less, on average.

Thanks to this shorter installation time, engineers using FRP don&#;t have to complete their work solely during the workweek. Instead, they can opt to do installation work on the weekends, too, when there is less traffic congestion and end users will experience less inconvenience and fewer interruptions to their commutes.

2. Weight

Going hand-in-hand with a quicker installation time is FRP&#;s weight. FRP is known for being lightweight. In fact, it&#;s about eight times lighter than reinforced concrete &#; meaning FRP is also less labor-intensive to use and install, and requires less equipment. This material also requires less labor during removal processes. See below to compare the total weight of FRP to the total weight of precast concrete.

As you can see from the chart, FRP is significantly lighter than precast concrete, with an FRP panel weighing about 5,000 lb and a precast concrete panel weighing nearly 41,000 lb. Using a lighter material makes it easier on your workers, saves on labor costs and places less stress on the infrastructure. The lower the weight of the material being used, the less wear and tear the infrastructure will experience as a whole.

3. Corrosion and Maintenance

Offering high durability and strength, as well as reliable resistance to corrosion, FRP is long-lasting and mitigates the need for ongoing maintenance. The lack of frequent maintenance and repairs helps to save on expensive labor and material costs and also prevents inconvenience to end users, since repair downtime is minimized.

And, since FRP is long-lasting and resistant to corrosion, the long-term costs end up being less as well.

Though FRP does have a slightly higher price point per square foot at initial installation, the material allows for many benefits in terms of long-term cost savings. Because FRP causes less stress on the infrastructure and is more durable than other materials, it diminishes the need for costly repairs or reconstruction down the road. For example, bridges and platforms constructed from materials such as reinforced concrete, steel, or wood often fall apart 15 to 20 years after initial installation &#; requiring extremely expensive repairs or even a whole new investment to rebuild from scratch. FRP, however, is built to last and won&#;t experience corrosion over time like many other construction materials.

4. cost savings

FRP structures are highly reliable and low-maintenance, but they shouldn&#;t be considered maintenance-free. Repairs requiring field service will need to be performed on rare occasions. Performing yearly routine inspections (at minimum) will help ensure potential issues can be caught before they become a problem. If an issue has been identified and reported (ex. cracks, crazing, discoloration, excessive wear, etc.), a field service technician will be sent out to complete the repair.

As mentioned, structures made from steel, concrete and wood are prone to regular repair work, as well as those made with brick and tile &#; that&#;s also where FRP can come in. Fiberglass can be used for patch repairs on bridge decking and liners can be applied to culverts, pumps, storage tanks and pipes to protect less-resistant materials from future damage. FRP can even be used for wrapping bridge piers and columns.

Repairs made with FRP add up to long-term cost savings. Since the material is corrosion-resistant and has a much longer service life, it&#;s a great option to use when repairing and protecting existing structures. Take a look at our brief case study to learn more about how FRP repairs reduce costs.

5. design flexibility

FRP is ideal for any type of job that requires customization, as it is engineered to meet exact specifications. Regardless of complexity, engineers can create panels of all different sizes and shapes. This allows for aesthetic versatility, as there is a range of possible colors. It is also possible to add functional features to facilitate a smooth and easy installation process.

Learn More

FRP offers a wide range of unique benefits &#; short production and installation time, light weight, long-term cost savings, corrosion resistance, and superior longevity. An ideal material for use in almost any infrastructure project, FRP is very dynamic, making it the perfect choice for all types of infrastructure &#; including vehicle, pedestrian, and trail bridges, cantilever sidewalks, rail platforms, waterfront frameworks, storage tanks and pipes, stairs and handrails, and much more.

Creative Composites Group has extensive expertise in both FRP materials, installation, and field services, and we&#;re a proud FRP manufacturer. To learn more about how FRP compares to competing materials such as reinforced concrete, steel and wood, download our eBook today.

5 Reasons to use Fiber-Reinforced Polymer (FRP)

5 Reasons to use Fiber-Reinforced Polymer (FRP)

When selecting a building material for an infrastructure project, there are a few key factors to consider before making a decision. Engineers must be sure to make selections that will benefit both the people within their agency, who will be working with the material, as well as the project&#;s end users.

One such material is fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP), which can be hugely beneficial for both builders and users. Read more below to find out how this unique material can work for you.

1. Production and Installation Time

When developing the design for your overall infrastructure plan, it&#;s important to factor in the amount of time that will be needed not only for the whole project, but also for each step within the process. Obviously, saved time translates to saved costs, but you certainly don&#;t want to sacrifice quality for efficiency. FRP can provide an ideal balance, helping to save valuable production time while still providing the necessary quality, strength and durability. Below, compare the production and installation time of FRP to that of precast concrete:

 

As you can see from the chart, FRP&#;s total production time is 15 days less than that of precast concrete. This translates to more than two weeks&#; worth of saved labor costs and overall downtime for infrastructure development. FRP also requires less total installation time than precast concrete &#; almost five days less, on average.

Thanks to this shorter installation time, engineers using FRP don&#;t have to complete their work solely during the workweek. Instead, they can opt to do installation work on the weekends, too, when there is less traffic congestion and end users will experience less inconvenience and fewer interruptions to their commutes.

2. Weight

Going hand-in-hand with a quicker installation time is FRP&#;s weight. FRP is known for being lightweight. In fact, it&#;s about eight times lighter than reinforced concrete &#; meaning FRP is also less labor-intensive to use and install, and requires less equipment. This material also requires less labor during removal processes. See below to compare the total weight of FRP to the total weight of precast concrete.

As you can see from the chart, FRP is significantly lighter than precast concrete, with an FRP panel weighing about 5,000 lb and a precast concrete panel weighing nearly 41,000 lb. Using a lighter material makes it easier on your workers, saves on labor costs and places less stress on the infrastructure. The lower the weight of the material being used, the less wear and tear the infrastructure will experience as a whole.

 

3. Corrosion and Maintenance

Offering high durability and strength, as well as reliable resistance to corrosion, FRP is long-lasting and mitigates the need for ongoing maintenance. The lack of frequent maintenance and repairs helps to save on expensive labor and material costs and also prevents inconvenience to end users, since repair downtime is minimized.

And, since FRP is long-lasting and resistant to corrosion, the long-term costs end up being less as well.

Though FRP does have a slightly higher price point per square foot at initial installation, the material allows for many benefits in terms of long-term cost savings. Because FRP causes less stress on the infrastructure and is more durable than other materials, it diminishes the need for costly repairs or reconstruction down the road. For example, bridges and platforms constructed from materials such as reinforced concrete, steel, or wood often fall apart 15 to 20 years after initial installation &#; requiring extremely expensive repairs or even a whole new investment to rebuild from scratch. FRP, however, is built to last and won&#;t experience corrosion over time like many other construction materials.

4. cost savings

FRP structures are highly reliable and low-maintenance, but they shouldn&#;t be considered maintenance-free. Repairs requiring field service will need to be performed on rare occasions. Performing yearly routine inspections (at minimum) will help ensure potential issues can be caught before they become a problem. If an issue has been identified and reported (ex. cracks, crazing, discoloration, excessive wear, etc.), a field service technician will be sent out to complete the repair.

As mentioned, structures made from steel, concrete and wood are prone to regular repair work, as well as those made with brick and tile &#; that&#;s also where FRP can come in. Fiberglass can be used for patch repairs on bridge decking and liners can be applied to culverts, pumps, storage tanks and pipes to protect less-resistant materials from future damage. FRP can even be used for wrapping bridge piers and columns.

Repairs made with FRP add up to long-term cost savings. Since the material is corrosion-resistant and has a much longer service life, it&#;s a great option to use when repairing and protecting existing structures. Take a look at our brief case study to learn more about how FRP repairs reduce costs.

5. design flexibility

FRP is ideal for any type of job that requires customization, as it is engineered to meet exact specifications. Regardless of complexity, engineers can create panels of all different sizes and shapes. This allows for aesthetic versatility, as there is a range of possible colors. It is also possible to add functional features to facilitate a smooth and easy installation process.

Learn More

FRP offers a wide range of unique benefits &#; short production and installation time, light weight, long-term cost savings, corrosion resistance, and superior longevity. An ideal material for use in almost any infrastructure project, FRP is very dynamic, making it the perfect choice for all types of infrastructure &#; including vehicle, pedestrian, and trail bridges, cantilever sidewalks, rail platforms, waterfront frameworks, storage tanks and pipes, stairs and handrails, and much more.

 

Creative Composites Group has extensive expertise in both FRP materials, installation, and field services, and we&#;re a proud FRP manufacturer. To learn more about how FRP compares to competing materials such as reinforced concrete, steel and wood, download our eBook today.

FRP for Chemical Storage Tanks - Improving Essentials

 

One often overlooked but absolutely essential component of any chemical testing or manufacturing facility is the storage tank. A chemical storage tank is an essential piece of equipment for any business that deals with dangerous or potentially hazardous chemicals. 

These tanks provide a safe and secure space to store these materials, reducing the risk of leaks or contamination. In addition, they are often built from strong and durable materials, such as stainless steel or high-density plastic, to ensure that they can safely contain even the most volatile chemicals. 

 

Chemical storage tanks come in a variety of different sizes and shapes, each designed to serve a specific purpose. For example, larger tanks may be used to store flammable or corrosive chemicals, while smaller ones may be used to store more benign substances like cleaning agents or waste products. Furthermore, these tanks are designed and built to exact specifications in order to ensure high levels of safety, reliability, and performance. For example, the tanks must be engineered to withstand heavy impacts or vibrations that might occur during transportation. Regardless of their shape or size, however, it is crucial that these tanks are kept in good working order at all times. 

Many chemical storage tanks can be prone to leaks and corrosion due to the harsh conditions inside of them, so regular maintenance and inspection are necessary for safety purposes. Additionally, because many toxic chemicals can pool in the bottom of these tanks, special precautions must be taken whenever moving stored materials from one tank to another. Plus, most chemical storage tanks also come with features like temperature controls, built-in alarms, and monitoring systems to help keep your chemicals safe and secure. 

Design Considerations for Chemical Storage Tanks

In order for chemical storage tanks to function effectively, there are a number of important design considerations that must be taken into account. The first is the material from which the tank is made. Since certain chemicals can be corrosive, it is vital to select a resilient and durable material that will not easily corrode or break down over time, such as stainless steel or glass-reinforced plastic. 

Another key factor is venting. Depending on the properties of a particular chemical, there may be specific requirements for how vents are designed and located on the tank in order to minimize exposure and prevent dangerous gas buildup. Finally, safety features like alarms and monitoring systems may also need to be incorporated into the design in order to provide an extra layer of protection against potential hazards. Overall, designing effective chemical storage tanks requires careful planning and consideration of many different factors in order to ensure optimal performance and safety.

Material Choice for Chemical Storage Tanks

When it comes to choosing the materials for chemical storage tanks, there are a number of factors to consider. The most important consideration is obviously the chemical that is going to be stored within the tank, as different chemicals have different requirements in terms of storage material. For example, corrosive chemicals generally require more durable materials such as stainless steel or fiberglass, while reactive chemicals need to be kept away from any heat sources. 

Other considerations include cost, performance, and ease of maintenance. Ultimately, the best choice will depend on the specific needs and requirements of each individual application. However, in general, it is always advisable to opt for quality materials that can withstand temperature changes and prolonged exposure to chemicals over time. When it comes to storing chemicals safely and effectively, quality material choice is essential.

FRP for Chemical Storage Tanks

Fiber-reinforced polymer, or FRP, has become an increasingly popular choice for use in chemical storage tanks. This material boasts many advantages over traditional metal tanks, including excellent chemical resistance, extreme durability, and a huge range of sizes and shapes. Because of these benefits, more and more companies are turning to FRP for the containment of potentially hazardous chemicals. Additionally, since these tanks are lightweight and easy to install and maintain, they have become a very cost-effective option for many businesses. 

 

Corrosion Free

FRP chemical tanks are highly resistant to both chemical attacks and physical damage from impacts and vibrations. This makes them ideal for above-ground and underground installations where extreme conditions may exist. Furthermore, because FRP does not require any external protection against rust or other forms of corrosion, these tanks eliminate the need for costly protective measures like exterior painting or cathodic protection systems. All in all, then, it is clear that FRP is an extremely effective material for chemical storage tanks due to its exceptional durability and unmatched corrosion resistance.

Chemical Resistant and Fire Retardant

One of its key benefits is its resistance to chemicals and other potentially damaging substances. For example, it can be used as the construction material for Chemical Storage Tanks without fear of corrosion or damage due to acidic liquids and hazardous compounds. Additionally, because FRP is inherently fire retardant, it offers superior protection against both external and internal fires and will not contribute fuel in such cases. These qualities make fiber-reinforced polymer a great choice for use in Chemical Storage Tanks, making it an ideal solution for many industrial applications. 

Cost Effective

Compared to traditional storage tanks made from steel or concrete, FRP is more economical in terms of both installation costs and lifetime costs. This is due to several factors. For one thing, FRP materials are lightweight, making them easier and less expensive to transport and install. In addition, these materials tend to be more resilient than other options, lasting much longer before needing to be replaced. Altogether, this means that FRP represents a cost-effective choice for chemical storage tanks, offering significant advantages over conventional materials in both the short and long term.

Overall, if you are looking for an advanced material to use in your chemical storage tank, then the fiber-reinforced polymer is definitely a good option. However, you need to consider your specific application when choosing between different types of storage tanks, as each application will have its own unique set of requirements and constraints. 

So whether you are looking for a small tank with minimal weight and space requirements or a large and stable tank that can hold large volumes of dangerous chemicals, the fiber-reinforced polymer is likely to be an excellent choice for your needs. With the right engineering expertise and attention to detail, this material can help ensure safe and efficient chemical storage in any application.'

 

The Right Tank Material: Fiberglass

There are several types of fiber-reinforced plastic (FRP) and plastic reinforced with glass fibers options available with fiberglass being the most versatile. Though the glass fibers themselves have been around for centuries, the practice of combining glass fibers with plastics didn&#;t begin until the s, at which time the term &#;fiberglass&#; was coined.  It is sometimes known as glass-reinforced plastic (GRP) or glass-fiber reinforced plastic (GRFP).

 

Tank manufacturers will use fiberglass for several different applications, such as lining and laminating, but there are times when the tank itself may be fabricated solely from fiberglass.  In the right environment, fiberglass tanks can be a long-lasting tank choice.  FRP tanks and vessels are also corrosion and chemical resistant, making them suitable for fuel or chemical storage tanks.  This composite material is simultaneously strong and lightweight, with more fire resistance than plastic or poly tanks.  More resistance are the key words here, as nothing beats the fire resistance of a steel tank.

 

It&#;s important to note that FRP tanks don&#;t come without drawbacks.  They would seemingly lend well to storing water, were it not for the fibrous nature of the material, which allows more light penetration than alternative materials.  Without proper treatment of an FRP tank, algae can form.  Fiberglass tanks are also more expensive than poly or plastic tanks, and their strength can become a weakness.  Rigidity makes them more brittle and highly susceptible to impact.  Fiberglass tanks will also weaken or even crack from repeated or prolonged exposure to heat or fire.  As mentioned earlier, fiberglass can&#;t match endurance of a steel tank and many would advise against using a fiberglass tank for underground storage, as would be difficult to monitor the integrity of the tank.

 

You don&#;t get to be the Masters of Custom Steel Tank Fabrication without also learning about all of the options on the market.  Buckeye Fabricating has the experience to ensure the tank you need meets the specs you have.  Call Buckeye and let the Masters work for you.

Chemical storage tanks

Thousands of companies around the world use chemical storage tanks everyday. Their purpose however, varies greatly depending on the type of industry or material. This post outlines the different types and materials and analyses each of their advantages and disadvantages. 

Choosing the correct tank type and the correct material can save businesses time and money. Conversely, choosing the wrong tank or material will mean regular maintenance, rapid deterioration or be fixed in its original location. Most importantly however, this mistake can lead to a leak being created after a few short years. Obviously, a damaged or leaking chemical tank can be extremely dangerous to property, the environment or your staff and customers. It can occur because of corrosion, no maintenance, transportation or installation errors and flaws in the construction or containment. Hence, it is imperative that businesses correctly choose their tank type and material. 

The predominant tank type used in Australia is industrial chemical storage. This is due to Australia&#;s large mining and resource sector and its demand for chemical containment. A typical chemical storage tank can mix, process, store and transport raw materials and chemical products. Such products and materials include wastewater, crude oil, hydrochloric acid, petroleum and propane. The majority of tanks are rectangular or cylindrical but some specialised fabricators offer custom shapes and sizes.  

Industrial tanks have several different types and include chemical storage, oil storage, hot water storage, plastic storage as well as water and liquid storage.

There are a number of factors when it comes to choosing a chemical storage tank material.

Chemical Dosage

Chemical Combinations

Temperature

Weatherability of Containment

Design Life 

On-going Maintenance

Price Point

Key factors in the decision making for customers include design life, price point, safety and the type of chemical to be stored inside the tank. Plastic tanks for example are able to store different types of chemicals as opposed to concrete tanks.

Chemical Storage Tank Types

Chemical storage tank materials can be broken down into four key types. These include plastic (Polyethylene, Polypropylene, PVC and PVDF), stainless steel, fiberglass (FRP) and concrete.

Plastic (PE, HDPE, LDPE, XLPE)

Plastic chemical tanks are the most popular material and offer several different types and manufacturing methods. Common types of PE used in tank fabrication are High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) as well as Polyethylene and LDPE (Low-Density Polyethylene). HDPE advantages include environmental stress cracking resistance, chemical resistance, durability and cost. Similarly, LDPE is chemical resistant, but it also has increased low moisture absorption and impact and stain resistance. Another popular material for chemical storage tanks is Cross-linked Polyethylene (XLPE). XLPE is essentially HDPE that ties bonds and polymers together to enhance its physical properties. The material is exclusively moulded and cannot be welded. Advantages for XLPE include low maintenance, improved toughness, chemical resistance, leak resistance and a longer lifetime. Plastic tanks in general have a longer lifetime than steel and fiberglass due to its technical properties which include superior chemical and corrosion resistance. Polyethylene tanks are also more resistant to leaks compared to other materials. This is because when they are rotomoulded or fabricated, they are moulded into a singular structure without seams. Poly fabrication techniques include CNC machining, rotational moulding (rotomoulding), extrusion, injection moulding, blow moulding, vacuum forming, polymer casting and 3D printing.

 

Because PE is an all round material, its types and applications vary greatly. Plastic tanks have both domestic and industrial applications such as rainwater collection, chemical storage as well as liquid containment and transportation. Key advantages include

Versatility for different applications

Custom sizes available as well as standard cylindrical/rectangular shape

Material strength

UV resistant

Corrosion resistant

Affordability 

Long service life and low maintenance cost

Lightweight meaning cheaper freight

Stainless Steel (304, 316, Nickel Alloy, Carbon Steel)

Stainless steel is the second most common type of chemical storage tank. This is because it is corrosion resistant, strong, durable and can be utilised for different applications. There are four main types of stainless steel tanks &#; 304 Steel, 316 Steel, Nickel Alloy and Carbon Steel. Stainless steel storage tanks are effective however, they are not suitable for some acids and are the most expensive option.

 

304 Steel is the most popular because of its price and corrosion resistance. It is ideal for construction or food applications. The 316 Steel is almost identical to the 304, except it has a higher resistance to chlorides making it suited for use in coastal regions. Nickel Alloy is very similar to stainless steel but has higher corrosion resistance meaning it is safer for chemical storage and transportation. Carbon Steel is not as shiny as the other types and is not as resistant to corrosion. Carbon Steel will corrode over time unless it is coated (often with Polyurethane) but the coating is not a permanent solution. It also requires regular painting. However, it is cheaper and better for use in non-corrosive applications and out of view locations. Disadvantages of stainless steel include maintenance and more expensive freight (due to heavier weight).

Fiberglass (FRP)

Fiberglass is another popular type of chemical storage tank. It has resistance to rust, corrosion, heat and abrasion. It is also lighter compared to steel or concrete tanks. Fiberglass tanks advantages also include customisation, reliability and easy installation and modification processes. Types of FRP chemical storage tanks include single-wall or bunded, underground, above ground, horizontal or vertical. The capacity for underground storage can reach 500,000 litres while the above ground capacity is 75,000 litres.

 

Fiberglass tanks are suitable for some applications. However, due to the construction process, a leak may form that will create more maintenance in the future. The tanks are also more prone to human error from the same construction process.

Concrete

Concrete storage tanks have been used for water and chemical storage for decades. It should be noted though, as technological advancements in the chemical storage industry are made concrete tanks have become less common over the years. This is because concrete does not have the same material properties as stainless steel, plastic or fiberglass. Different types of concrete storage tanks include underground, poured on site and pre-made. Sometimes concrete tanks are requested to be lined with poly in order to mitigate potential leak issues.

 

The advantages of concrete are its strength, durability and applications in residential and commercial settings. Disadvantages include being susceptible to cracks or leaks, due to steel reinforcement and Lime which is found in concrete, as well as being more difficult to transport due to its weight.

Other

Other less common types of storage tanks are onion tanks, which are self-rising fittings ideal for emergency water storage. Another is pillow (bladder) tanks which are collapsible tanks that can be reused for temporary storage. Steel panel tanks are commonly used for water storage in industrial or rural applications and come in a variety of shapes and sizes. 

Conclusion

Overall, these different types of chemical storage tanks have their own advantages and disadvantages. It is important that the customer understands the chemical product inside the tank, the tank&#;s material properties and its durability. Polyethylene plastic, stainless steel, fiberglass and concrete are all viable options for chemical storage if they are used in the right environment for the correct application. Plastics as a whole offers greater material properties and capabilities compared to other alternatives regarding safety and durability.

For more information on chemical storage tanks, please contact us today via at [ protected] or call 465 888.

 

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Storage Tanks for Oil & Chemicals - Everything You Need to Know

A one-size-fits-all approach doesn&#;t cut it when it comes to storing oil and chemicals. Specialised solutions are needed to maintain the integrity of these unique materials, as well as meet strict health and safety regulations enforced in the industry.

Want to know more about storage for products like oil, gas, petrochemicals and other industrial materials? Read on as we take a closer look at the different storage tanks solutions and their applications.

 

 

 

Storage tanks for industrial fuels

 

 

Also known as petroleum tanks, industrial fuel storage tanks are designed to store organic and non-organic liquids. They can also hold vapour and flammable fluids. Onsite tanks are extremely useful for sites that use large amounts of fuel. Easy access to oil fast-tracks refuelling processes and reduces costs associated with administration, ordering and delivery. Onsite tanks also allow sites to buy in bulk, which can significantly reduce the cost of industrial fuel.

In a recent press release, the Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO) announced major upgrades to the Oil Fuel Depot at Gosport. The project cost an estimated £83 million and will play an important role in meeting the future demands of the Royal Navy. This includes fuelling state-of-the-art Queen Elizabeth Class carriers, as well as aircraft and helicopters operated by the Royal Navy.

British construction and engineering company J. Murphy and Sons Ltd was enlisted to design and replace existing fuel storage tanks, as well as upgrade pipes, fuel delivery systems, fuel sampling lab equipment and other infrastructure.

&#;We are delighted to have completed this project to meet the Royal Navy&#;s fuel requirements,&#; says Stephen Bunce, Principal Project Manager at the DIO. &#;The upgrade work on the Gosport site was delivered on time and within budget and its success was achieved through good teamwork, communication and collaboration. It&#;s great to see this vitally important facility now in full operation.&#;

There are two main types of industrial fuel storage tanks:

 

 

 

Aboveground storage tanks

 

 

Aboveground storage tanks (ASTs) are an easy and cost-effective solution. The upfront costs are lower as there&#;s no need for installation groundwork like deep excavation and underground piping. ASTs are also easier and cheaper to maintain than their underground counterparts. Leaks can be easily detected, making ASTs ideal for storing fuels, chemicals and other industrial products.

Are you interested in learning more about Custom GFRP Pipe? Contact us today to secure an expert consultation!

Many sites choose to invest in self bunded tanks, a type of AST. Tough and durable, self bunded tanks feature double steel walls to prevent leaks and spills. They&#;re essentially a tank within a tank and help sites reduce the risk of product loss and environmental contamination. The gap between the inner and outer wall is roughly 110% of the total capacity. This ensures even large spills don&#;t seep out of the tank.

 

 

 

Underground Storage Tanks

 

 

Underground storage tanks (USTs) are preferred for hazardous fuels and materials. Generally, at least 10% of the tank&#;s volume is underground. Underground tanks used to store dangerous materials are usually regulated. For example, in the US they must be registered with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). While the chance of fire and explosion are lower with USTs, the risk of leaks is higher.

 

 

 

Advantages of industrial fuel storage tanks

 

 

Fuel storage tanks offer a laundry list of advantages. The manufacturing process is specialised and regulated, which offers sites peace of mind when storing oil, petrol, diesel, chemicals and hazardous liquids. Storing these types of products in tanks minimises evaporations and emissions. This helps reduce volume loss and maximise profit margins.

Fuel storage tanks are manufactured using specialised materials designed to resist deterioration when exposed to corrosive elements. This prevents leaks and helps sites protect their assets, as well as meet their environmental obligations.

 

 

 

Issues associated with fuel storage tanks

 

 

External temperature fluctuations are a common issue associated with fuel storage tanks. Changes in temperature can cause tanks to &#;breathe&#; and create condensation. This creates a build-up of water which supports bacterial growth. For example, in the UK experienced a bitterly cold winter followed by an unseasonably warm summer. This resulted in a 23% increase in reports of fuel tank corrosion and contamination.

Fatty Acid Methyl Ester (FAME) content in fuels is also a major issue. Many modern fuels contain higher levels of FAME, a type of biodiesel with similar properties to conventional diesel. While FAME can help improve the environmental credentials of fuel, it can also create contamination issues. Microbes in FAME sink to the bottom of the tank, where they combine with dirt, rust and other debris to form a sludge. This can corrode the structure of the storage tank over time and increase the risk of leaks and failure.

 

 

 

Storage tanks for industrial chemicals

 

 

Industrial chemical storage tanks are used to store corrosive, flammable and hazardous materials. They&#;re used to blend and process chemicals, as well as store and transport raw materials and finished products. The three main types of industrial storage tanks available are:

 

 

 

Stainless steel storage tanks

 

 

Tough and durable, stainless steel storage tanks are a solid solution for most applications. They&#;re generally the most expensive option and are highly versatile. When manufactured correctly, stainless steel tanks easily comply with strict industry regulations. They also have a longer lifespan than most tank solutions, making them a good long-term investment. That said, they&#;re unsuitable for storing many types of acids.

 

 

 

Polyethylene (PE) storage tanks

 

 

When it comes to versatility, PE storage tanks are a best-in-class solution. The polyethylene can be linear or cross-linked, depending on structural strength requirements. PR tanks are factory-made in moulds, which minimises the risk of human error during the manufacturing process.

 

 

 

Fiberglass (FRP) storage tanks

 

 

Affordability is one of the chief advantages of FRP storage tanks. However, they are prone to leaks which makes them unsuitable for certain chemicals. They&#;re also susceptible to corrosion from chemicals like hydrofluorosilicic acid, which can degrade the structural integrity of fiberglass.

 

 

 

Choosing the right industrial chemical tank

 

 

The type of tank used depends on the nature of the materials being stored. Failing to assess the unique properties of the material being stored is one of the biggest mistakes a site can make. Just because a tank can hold water, it doesn&#;t mean it&#;s suitable for storing oil, chemicals and other hazardous materials. Tanks must be selected based on their application, as well as the unique environmental, safety and legal requirements enforced within the industry.

 

 

 

Preventing environmental contamination

 

 

Preventing environmental contamination should be front of mind when choosing storage tanks for industrial chemicals. Tank failures can have serious environmental consequences, especially when leaks are largescale. As soon as hazardous materials seep out of tanks they pose a risk to streams, lakes and groundwater reservoirs, as well as drinking watcher catchments. Spills can also permanently contaminate soil and pose a serious threat to human health.

 

 

 

Minimising the risk of failure

 

 

As explored above, storage tank failure is threat to environmental and human health. Failure is usually caused by the following:

 

 

Deterioration of manufacturing materials. Either due to quality issues or because the materials used are unsuitable for storing corrosive chemicals

 

 

 

 

Construction issues and flaws during the manufacturing process

 

 

 

 

Failure to properly maintain the tank and schedule repairs

 

 

 

 

Overfilling the tank

 

 

 

 

Failure to implement spill containment strategies

 

 

 

 

 

Storage tanks for oil

 

 

Oil storage tanks are used to store crude oil and other raw materials during the different refining and processing stages. They&#;re also used to store finished products. Materials used to manufacture oil storage tanks include stainless steel, carbon steel, reinforced concrete and industrial plastic. Some oil storage tanks are also carved into impermeable, subterranean rock deposits. Below, we take a closer look at the different types of oil storage tanks available.

 

 

 

Floating roof tanks

 

 

These tanks feature a roof that rises and falls, depending on how much oil is being stored. The floating roof is a clever safety feature designed to prevent vapour from building up in the tank.

 

 

 

Fixed roof tanks

 

 

Fixed roof tanks are used to store lower volumes as oil.

 

 

 

Bunded tanks

 

 

Bunded tanks are double walled and feature a built-in catch system to prevent spills and leaks.

 

 

 

Single and double skin tanks

 

 

While some tanks feature a single layer of material, others feature a double skin to reduce permeability.

 

 

 

Safety first!

 

 

Improving onsite safety is one of the key goals of storage tanks for oil and chemicals. Safety is especially important at offshore rigs, which face a unique set of risks and dangers. As a result, they&#;re governed by a strict set of local and international health and safety standards. This includes strict rules for gas and flame detectors, as well as automatic sprinkler systems designed to pump in seawater and extinguish flames.

As seen in disasters like Deepwater Horizon, the risk of explosion in offshore rigs is very real. Accidents can cause catastrophic damage to equipment and have serious environmental consequences. Not to mention lead to serious injuries and loss of life. To manage the risks, offshore operators are continually on the search for new ways to improve the efficiency and reliability of automatic fire sprinkler systems. Find out more about the latest solutions in &#;Offshore Platform Fire Safety Sprinkler System Depends on Liquid Flow Assurance Switch&#;.

For more information, please visit GFRP Pipe Manufacturer.

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