Tank Material Comparison: Poly Tanks, Stainless Steel Tanks

02 Sep.,2024

 

Tank Material Comparison: Poly Tanks, Stainless Steel Tanks

Water tanks are available in a range of suitable materials including plastic, galvanised steel, stainless steel, Aquaplate®, Zincalume®, Steel Liners, fibreglass, and concrete.

Wansheng Product Page

If the water is to be used for human consumption, then the tank material should comply with the requirements of potable-water standard (AS/NZS).

New water tanks can sometimes impart specific tastes and odours. For example, galvanised tanks can impart a metallic taste when first filled, due to leaching of excess zinc. New concrete tanks can release excess lime, leading to a high pH and possibly a bitter taste. Water from other types of tanks tend to be slightly acidic.

Plastic (Poly) Tanks

The most popular type of water tank in Australia is the plastic or poly water tank, typically made with the rotational moulding process. Bushman&#;s tanks have been manufactured using this process for over 30 years. Plastic tanks and plastic liners must be constructed of materials that are at least of food-grade standard (compliant with AS ) and if the water is to be used for human consumption the plastic material must comply with the requirements of potable-water standard (AS/NZS). Bushmans tanks comply with the raw material requirements of the Australian Tank Standard. The rotational moulding industry is one of the few industries that have a comprehensive standard that covers both the raw materials used, and the manufacturing and workmanship of the completed water tanks.

Polyethylene (Poly) is non-corrosive for long life. Polyethylene will not rust or suffer from corrosion as will metal water tanks so time during their service life.

Poly tanks are lightweight and easy to handle &#; no heavy equipment needed.

Poly tanks are made in one single piece. They have no joints or seams where part of the tank has been welded together, and no sealants are used to join any parts of the tank together.

Bushmans poly water tanks are manufactured from materials that comply with the light transmission standard (AS/NZS) that inhibits the growth of algae. Light transmission is a potential problem that fiberglass tanks also need to manage.

Bushmans poly tanks contain long term UV light protection that exceeds the requirements of the Australian Standard. Independent testing has shown that some of the most popular colours Bushmans manufacture exceed the minimum UV requirements by over 300%. Bushmans poly tanks have been in service since in the harsh Australian environment. They have managed to survive the sun and the heat, proving that Bushmans tank design and manufacturing process is second to none.

Polyethylene tanks can be recycled at the end of their service life. Recycled plastic cannot make water tanks because potable water regulations only allow virgin plastics to be used. However, there are many other product applications for recycled plastic. The recycled plastic can have new sun and heat protection added, and go on to enjoy another long life.

Steel Liner Tanks

Steel liner tanks are steel water tanks that have a poly liner which holds the water in the tank. The benefit of the poly liner is it prevents water coming into contact with the galvanised or Zincalume® walls preventing corrosion, and the liner is ideal for storage of potable water. The poly liner material should comply with the requirements of potable-water standard (AS/NZS) if water is to be used for human consumption.

The key benefits of the steel liner tanks are the liner and its capacity to hold water, and the modular steel structure which allows very large tanks to be assembled on site which is more affordable than similar sized concrete tanks.

 These tanks are made from either galvanised materials or Zincalume®. The benefits of the Zincalume® tank is it has a slightly lower cost, however for effective corrosion protection, it should have a sacrificial anode. This anode should be replaced every 5 years.

The galvanised tank is fully galvanised with all material walls, trusses and fittings being fully compatible. Galvanised walls are more corrosion resistant in a tank application and there is no need for a sacrificial anode.

Steel Water Tanks

In generations past most water tanks were made from galvanised steel which are the water tanks we are familiar with on older buildings and sheds. The key with these is the corrosion protection with these tanks were limited and hence the life of the tank was relatively short. This is especially the case without added corrosion protection such as Aqualplate®. Galvanised steel has a lot lower resistance to corrosion then polyethylene and hence the move to poly tanks over the past few years.

The other innovation has been the introduction of steel tanks with a poly liner.

 If there is direct contact with water in the tank and the zinc wall this maybe leached into the tank and can at times affect the taste of stored rainwater but is not a health risk. Ideally galvanised water tanks should flushed before use.

 The key material in steel tanks is galvanised steel. The galvanising process involves the application to the metal of a zinc based coating. These galvanised sheets are then solders or joined by a silicon sealant. Solder consists is made from mixture of lead & tin which is melted with a hot iron and applied to a joint. The silicon sealant must be extensively tested to ensure the tank is water tight.

 

Aquaplate® (plastic coated steel) is product that is specifically designed for water tanks. The product has a food grade polymer surface or coating joined to the base galvanised steel material. Note the polymer material used in plastic coated steel is not resistant to long exposure to sunlight, so that tank inside surface requires a top cover protecting it from the sun at all times. Chemicals typically used as mosquito larvicides can cause deterioration of the polymer coating.

When cleaning the tank the polymer coating must not be damaged as this will expose the tank to corrosion. If the coating is damaged, it should be repaired immediately.

Steel used in the fabrication of water tanks typically has a warranty of 20 years. The manufactured product (the water tank) generally has a 10 year warranty, on a pro-rata basis. This is because joins are the areas of greatest risk of failure. You should read the warranty thoroughly. Most steel tank installations require concrete slab, minimum 100mm thick with steel reinforcing, or else you void the warranty.

Stainless Steel Tanks

Stainless steel can also be used to manufacture water tanks. This material does not suffer from the rust or corrosion problems of typical steel tanks. However, the cost of stainless steel is significantly higher than normal coated steel tanks, and significantly more expensive than plastic tanks. The stainless-steel tanks still require a seam, where the sheets are joined.

Concrete Tanks

Concrete water tanks and ferro-cement water tanks are very strong and long-lasting. They are very heavy, and difficult to handle. G tank would weigh about 8Mt. Concrete water tanks are most often installed underground however smaller tanks are available for above ground.

New concrete water tanks often impart tastes and may leach lime thereby increasing the pH of water. Accordingly, these concrete water tanks may need to be flushed before use.

Concrete tanks can either be delivered complete for small or medium sized concrete water tanks, or poured on site for medium and larger concrete water tanks.

Concrete water tanks delivered on site in a complete form are craned off the truck and onto a prepared sand base. These tanks are sometimes in one to three pieces. Concrete sections are sealed primarily with a rubber or synthetic sealing ring or some form of sealant. Sealant is then applied to the inside of the tank at the join to stop the water leaking out.

Concrete water tanks are usually the most affordable for an underground solution. They are ideal for this purpose because they can be covered with load-bearing lids and can fit under driveways or other structures.

Cracking and leaking is one of the most common complaints suffered by concrete tanks. As long as the tank can be drained, the cracks can be repaired. In some bad cases, a plastic liner is required, which can be very expensive.

The standard for concrete tanks allows for a certain amount of leakage, while the standard for plastic tanks does not allow any leakage.

Fibreglass

Fibreglass tanks (or GFRP Glass Fibre Reinforced Plastic) are available to store water. These tanks must be manufactured with a food-grade coating on their interior surface. The coating is cured before the tanks are offered for sale.

One advantage of Fibreglass is that it is very stiff or rigid. This means that tank walls can be relatively thin to manage the water pressure. However, the disadvantage of this very rigid material is that it can tend to be brittle in nature, being prone to cracking and leaking.

If you are looking for more details, kindly visit acid resistant glass steel storage tank quotes.

Most Fibreglass tanks have a resin, which is mixed with a catalyst or hardener, along with glass fibres (reinforcement) sprayed onto a mould by an operator. The process is dependent on the skill of the individual. As a result, the process can result in variation from tank to tank.

Fibreglass water tanks allow more light entry than other types of tanks, which encourages algal growth. To prevent this, tanks should be sealed with a black covering inside or painted on the outside. Some tanks are manufactured with sufficient pigment to prevent this problem occurring.

 

Fire Resistance

Steel, steel liner and concrete tanks are fire proof. Although a bush fire cannot burn the steel besides making it black, prolonged exposure to extreme temperatures will eventually destroy the seal of tanks where there is a plastic resin used on the tank loins. The impact of this will depend on how much water is in the tank.

Plastic tanks can ignite when there is a sustained ignition source, such as a high intensity bush fire. If a water tank is required to provide guaranteed water supply for the fire service, we would recommend a steel liner, concrete tank or an underground water tank.

Plastic coated steel tanks, contrary to what some tank manufacturers state, are sensitive to temperature over 70 degrees. The plastic coating inside the tank will separate and render the tank useless. Zincalume® will perform slightly better than Aquaplate®, up to about 200 degrees when the Zincalume® coating will melt.

 

 

Why Bolted Tanks are the Best Choice for Your Industrial ...

When it comes to industrial storage, there are a lot of options to choose from. From concrete silos to welded steel tanks, the choices can be overwhelming. But bolted tanks are the clear winner for those who want the most reliable and cost-effective storage solution. Bolted tanks offer a number of benefits that make them the best choice for industrial storage needs. They are durable, versatile, and easy to install, making them a top choice for businesses of all sizes. In this article, we&#;ll examine why bolted tanks are the best choice for your industrial storage needs and how they can help you streamline your operations and save money in the long run. So, whether you&#;re looking to store water, chemicals, or other materials, read on to find out why bolted tanks are the ultimate storage solution.

Types of industrial storage tanks

Industrial storage tanks play a critical role in many industries, from agriculture to manufacturing. They store a wide range of materials, including liquids, gases, and solids. Several industrial storage tanks are available, including concrete silos, welded steel tanks, and bolted tanks. Each type of tank has its own advantages and disadvantages, depending on the business&#;s specific needs. Concrete silos are a popular choice for storing materials like grain and cement. They are durable and can withstand extreme weather conditions, making them ideal for outdoor storage. However, they are not easily moved and can be expensive to construct. Welded steel tanks are also a common choice for industrial storage. They are strong and can be customized to fit specific needs. However, they are often expensive to build and require skilled labor to install. On the other hand, bolted tanks offer several advantages over other types of industrial storage tanks. They are versatile, easy to install, and cost-effective. Plus, they can be used for a wide range of applications, making them a popular choice for businesses of all sizes.

What are bolted tanks?

Bolted tanks are modular tanks that are made up of individual steel panels that are bolted together on-site. They are available in a range of sizes and configurations, making them suitable for a wide range of applications. Bolted tanks are typically made from high-quality steel and coated with a protective finish to prevent corrosion and extend lifespan.

One of the most significant advantages of bolted tanks is that they can be easily transported to the installation site, which makes them ideal for remote locations. They are also easy to assemble, which means they can be installed quickly and with minimal disruption to the surrounding area. Plus, bolted tanks can be disassembled and moved to a new location if needed, which makes them a flexible storage solution.

Advantages of bolted tanks

There are several advantages to using bolted tanks for industrial storage. Here are some of the key benefits:

Durability

Bolted tanks are made from high-quality steel designed to withstand harsh weather conditions and resist corrosion. They are also coated with a protective finish that helps to extend their lifespan. This means that bolted tanks are a durable and long-lasting storage solution that can withstand the test of time.

Versatility

Bolted tanks are available in a wide range of sizes and configurations, making them suitable for various applications. They can be used to store liquids, gases, and solids and customized to fit specific needs. This means that bolted tanks are versatile storage solutions that can be tailored to meet the unique needs of your business.

Easy installation

One of the biggest advantages of bolted tanks is that they are easy to install. The individual steel panels are bolted together on-site, which means that there is no need for skilled labor or specialized equipment. This makes the installation process quick and easy, which can save you time and money.

Cost-effective

Bolted tanks are a cost-effective storage solution that can save you money in the long run. They are typically less expensive to construct than other industrial storage tanks, and their modular design means that they can be easily expanded or relocated if needed. Plus, bolted tanks require minimal maintenance, which can further reduce your costs.

Bolted tank applications

Bolted tanks can be used for a wide range of applications in various industries. Here are some of the most common applications:

Water storage

Bolted tanks are a popular choice for storing water, whether it&#;s for drinking, irrigation, or firefighting. They can be customized to fit specific needs, such as underground or elevated storage, and can be easily expanded if additional capacity is needed.

Chemical storage

Bolted tanks are also commonly used for storing chemicals, such as acids, fertilizers, and pesticides. They are resistant to corrosion and can be coated with a variety of protective finishes to prevent chemical reactions.

Check our liquid bolted tanks for more information.

Grain storage

Bolted tanks can be used for storing grain and other agricultural products. They are a popular choice for farmers and food processors because they are easy to clean and can be customized to fit specific needs.

Check our dry bolted tanks for more information.

Oil and gas storage

Bolted tanks also store oil and gas products, such as crude oil, diesel fuel, and natural gas. They can be customized to fit specific needs, such as underground or aboveground storage, and withstand extreme weather conditions.

Bolted tanks vs. welded tanks

While bolted tanks offer many advantages over other industrial storage tanks, they are not always the best choice for every situation. Here are some of the critical differences between bolted tanks and welded tanks:

Construction

Welded tanks are constructed on-site using specialized equipment and skilled labor. This means that the construction process can be time-consuming and expensive. Bolted tanks, on the other hand, are modular and can be quickly assembled on-site with minimal equipment and labor.

Cost

Welded tanks are typically more expensive to construct than bolted tanks due to the specialized equipment and labor required. However, they may be a better option for more extensive storage requirements, where the cost per unit of storage is lower.

Maintenance

Bolted tanks require minimal maintenance, as they are resistant to corrosion and can withstand harsh weather conditions. Welded tanks, on the other hand, may require more maintenance over time to prevent corrosion and leaks.

Bolted tank construction and installation process

The construction and installation process for bolted tanks is relatively simple. Here are the basic steps:

  1. Site preparation: The installation site is prepared by leveling the ground and ensuring that it is stable and able to support the weight of the tank.
  2. Foundation construction: A concrete foundation is poured to provide a stable base for the tank. The foundation is typically larger than the tank itself to provide additional stability.
  3. Tank assembly: The individual steel panels are bolted together on-site to create the tank. The panels are typically coated with a protective finish to prevent corrosion.
  4. Roof installation: The roof is installed once the tank is assembled. The roof can be customized to fit specific needs, such as adding vents or access hatches.
  5. Plumbing and electrical work: The tank is connected to the plumbing and electrical systems, allowing for storing and transferring materials.

Maintenance of bolted tanks

Bolted tanks require minimal maintenance, but taking a few simple steps is important to ensure their longevity and performance. Here are some tips for maintaining bolted tanks:

Regular inspections

Inspect the tank regularly for signs of corrosion or damage. This can help to identify potential issues before they become serious.

Cleaning

Clean the tank regularly to remove any dirt or debris that may accumulate on the surface. This can help to prevent corrosion and extend the lifespan of the tank.

Coating

If the tank is not coated, consider adding a protective coating to prevent corrosion and extend its lifespan.

Cost comparison of bolted tanks vs. welded tanks

When it comes to industrial storage, cost is always an important consideration. While bolted tanks are typically less expensive to construct than welded tanks, the cost per storage unit may vary depending on the business&#;s specific needs. Here are some factors to consider when comparing the cost of bolted tanks vs welded tanks:

Size

The size of the tank can have a significant impact on the cost. Bolted tanks are available in a range of sizes but may be less cost-effective for very large storage requirements.

Material

The type of material used for the tank can also affect the cost. While both bolted and welded tanks are typically made from steel, the quality and thickness of the steel can vary.

Installation

The installation process for welded tanks may require more specialized equipment and labor, which can increase the cost. Bolted tanks, on the other hand, can be quickly assembled on-site with minimal equipment and labor.

Conclusion: Why bolted tanks are the best choice for your industrial storage needs

Bolted tanks offer a number of advantages over other types of industrial storage tanks. They are durable, versatile, and cost-effective, making them a top choice for businesses of all sizes. Whether you&#;re looking to store water, chemicals, or other materials, bolted tanks are the ultimate storage solution. With their easy installation and minimal maintenance requirements, bolted tanks can help you streamline your operations and save money in the long run. So, if you&#;re in need of reliable and cost-effective industrial storage, consider a bolted tank from Weston and Associates for your business, and you won&#;t be disappointed.

Contact us to discover the #WestonDifference and how we&#;re changing the future of bolted tanks.

Contact us to discuss your requirements of frp roof product. Our experienced sales team can help you identify the options that best suit your needs.