The Importance of Tank Coatings in Corrosion Prevention

Over the years, we’ve accumulated considerable expertise in lining and repairing storage tanks of various shapes and sizes. These tanks vary in their location – some are above ground, some are underground, and they range from being in good condition to very bad condition.

From our extensive experience in the industry, one thing stands out: corrosion poses the greatest threat to the lifespan of storage tanks.

So What is Corrosion?

Corrosion, a natural process influenced by chemistry, metallurgy, and electricity, entails the gradual degradation of materials due to chemical reactions within their surroundings.

This deterioration diminishes the beneficial properties of materials, such as their strength, appearance, and resistance to liquid and gas permeation.

During the steel production process for storage tanks and other applications, energy in the form of fire and heat is introduced. This creates an energy imbalance in the resulting steel, which nature seeks to rectify by returning the material to its natural state.

Nature endeavors to discharge this surplus energy by releasing electrons, thereby reversing the imbalance and initiating the corrosion of the metal, transforming it back into iron oxide, commonly recognized as rust.

The presence of water, whether as solid, liquid, or vapor, significantly accelerates the corrosion process. Stored water acts as a potent electrolyte, facilitating ion transfer and current flow within the microstructure of the steel.

Storage tanks and piping systems provide an ideal environment for corrosion development. In addition to atmospheric corrosion, these systems offer the necessary water and nutrients for microbial growth, further exacerbating the corrosion process.

Lining Stops Corrosion

Effective management and control of interior corrosion can be achieved through the correct application of protective coatings.

These linings serve as a protective barrier between the steel tank and the stored product, effectively inhibiting corrosion. By interrupting the flow of electrons, these coatings prevent the initiation of corrosion.

Furthermore, internal coatings serve to deter microbes from directly attacking the steel, thereby preventing microbiologically influenced corrosion.

Good Preparation and Good Coating Application

Ensuring proper coating application is paramount to prevent discontinuities, such as breaks or gaps in the coatings, which could allow corrosion to reoccur on the steel surface.

These discontinuities often stem from inadequate surface preparation or incorrect coating application techniques.

Properly preparing the steel surface and applying the coating system can help minimize the occurrence of discontinuities and prolong the lifespan of the coating.

Failures in lining due to improper or insufficient application can have severe consequences for the operator. This includes significant financial losses in terms of lost revenue, expenses for lining replacement and tank repairs, and potential fines resulting from tank leakage.

When it comes to lining your storage tanks, it is critical to hire an experienced and reputable company.

Applying a protective coating or lining to the interior of the tank not only aids in corrosion control but also ensures product purity.

The smoothness of tank lining coatings can enhance the flow of stored products, ensuring minimal residue remains in the tank.

Given the strict environmental regulations, tank storage facilities must prevent tank leaks and any contamination of the surrounding land or waterways.

Utilizing protective coatings results in lower operating costs, reduced need for repairs, and an extended design life for storage tanks, ultimately leading to increased profits.

Corrosion protection typically involves thinner coatings or flexible lining products for above-ground applications, while epoxy composite lining systems combined with mortar are suitable for new structures. Our coatings line prioritizes chemical resistance on various surfaces such as concrete, steel, masonry, and more, across municipal, industrial, institutional, and energy/utility applications.

We strongly advise applying preventative coatings to newly installed structures before they are put into service to ensure the longest possible service life.

We offer tried and tested services in Crockett, Grapeland, Kennard, Latexo, Lovelady, Ratcliff, HOUSTON, TEXAS. 

We also offer tried and tested services in Longbeach, and cities, towns, suburbs, localities, and places close to Long Beach such as Lakewood, Rossmoor, Lincoln Village, Seal Beach, Hawaiian Gardens, Los Alamitos, Cypress, Bellflower, Carson, La Palma, Paramount, Cerritos, East Compton, West Carson, Compton, Norwalk, Stanton, Westminster, Lomita, Downey, Lynwood, Rolling Hills Estates, Cudahy, CALIFORNIA.

Our friendly and experienced customer service team is here to help you!

Call Panel Tanks Vegas by American Tanks at +1 800 656 0167

Or email at info@paneltanks.vegas

1305 W 11th St #4087 Houston, TX 77008 USA

3711 Long Beach blvd Suite 4057 4th Floor # 1079 Long Beach, CA 90807 USA

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