What is a Tank Lining?
A tank lining acts as a protective barrier, preventing chemical corrosion from affecting the tank’s interior. An ideal tank lining should establish a flawless barrier, firmly adhere to the surface, seal any openings, provide cost-effective corrosion protection, and prevent potential interruptions.
Federal regulations require that water storage tanks with capacities below 110 gallons must be adequately lined to contain chemicals and prevent leaks.
Over time, the oil and gas industry has linked tank failures and spills to corrosion occurring within storage facilities. As a result, owners frequently adopt corrosion prevention measures to protect their investments and extend the lifespan of their tanks.
Effects of Corrosion and how to Prevent it
Corrosion manifests as the gradual degradation of materials caused by chemical interactions with their surroundings. Metals, plastics, and other materials can suffer from this phenomenon when exposed to specific chemicals, leading to a compromise in their strength, appearance, and ability to resist the passage of liquids and gases. A viable solution involves applying a high-quality coating that resists corrosion to the affected surface.
Numerous advanced coatings boast exceptional resistance to corrosion and abrasion. However, specialized coatings are required to withstand the effects of potent acids, alkalis, solvents, gases, oxidizers, extreme temperatures, and other factors commonly encountered during storage and transit.
It’s vital to safeguard both the interior and exterior of metal tanks. Environmental elements and stored substances can expedite steel corrosion, potentially resulting in structural harm if left unattended. This scenario could incur substantial expenses for repairs, lost productivity, environmental harm, and other indirect costs for the owner.
Choosing the appropriate coating is pivotal for cost-effective corrosion prevention. Neglecting this aspect may lead to product contamination and tank deterioration. Hence, careful evaluation of various criteria is indispensable when selecting and applying a coating.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Chemical Tank Liners
1. The Type of Chemicals in the Storage Tanks
Different chemicals display diverse reactions when stored in tanks, which can be influenced by the type of tank and the materials used in its construction. The majority of industrial tanks, whether situated aboveground or underground, are typically made from steel or fiberglass. As a result, numerous chemicals come into contact with the tank walls, leading to corrosion. Hydrochloric acid and peracetic acid are among the common corrosive chemicals encountered in industrial settings. To ensure the safe containment of chemicals, all facilities handling chemicals should employ chemical liners for their industrial tanks. It’s imperative to carefully consider the specific chemicals being used before selecting a tank liner, as different liners may offer varying levels of corrosion resistance.
2. Compliance with the State and Federal Regulations
Establishing operational standards for critical industries involves a regulatory process overseen by federal and local governments. Industries subject to regulation include chemical plants and water treatment facilities. The EPA has compiled a list of 140 chemicals, requiring facility owners to submit a risk management plan to federal regulators if storing these chemicals in significant quantities. Before purchasing a chemical liner, it’s essential to ensure compliance with both federal and state regulations.
Given the substantial risks associated with bulk storage of corrosive chemicals, regulatory oversight is warranted. Many of these chemicals can generate highly flammable hydrogen gas when reacting with metals at elevated temperatures. Such reactions pose risks not only to personnel but also to the surrounding environment. Utilizing high-quality industrial tank liners plays a crucial role in corrosion prevention, mitigating the potential for catastrophic accidents.
3. Custom Tank Liners
Due to the varied sizes, heights, and configurations of tanks in your facility, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution for chemical liners. Customization is crucial, as each liner needs to be tailored to fit the precise dimensions of the tank. Full coverage is necessary to prevent chemical corrosion of the tank’s interior surface. Inadequate coverage may leave certain areas exposed, leading to corrosion and the risk of contaminating stored chemicals. To address these concerns and guarantee long-term durability, it’s essential to employ customized chemical liners specifically designed for each tank in your plant.
4. Expert Installation
Installing tank liners is a precise job that requires technical know-how. To guarantee a proper fit and function, hiring a team of experienced professionals is vital. Ideally, the company selling the liners should also offer installation to ensure everything works as intended.
Chemical liners are a significant investment, so proper installation is crucial to avoid wasting money on frequent replacements due to early wear and tear. Faulty installation can allow chemicals to seep through and damage the tank itself, potentially causing dangerous reactions. This highlights the importance of professional installation.
Plant managers understand that chemical liners play a critical role in safeguarding both the stored chemicals and the tanks themselves. Improper handling of corrosive chemicals can put both the plant’s operations and the environment at risk. High-quality liners are essential for preventing this. By using industrial tank liners, these managers can extend the lifespan of their chemical tanks, ensuring optimal protection and a longer service life.
The above factors will help you decide why you need a tank liner. But if you’re still unsure about your decision, it helps to talk to an expert. Our staff can help point you in the right direction. So call us today.
Our friendly and experienced customer service team is here to help you!
Call Panel Tanks by American Tanks at +1 800 656 0167
Or email at info@americanpaneltanks.com
