Why Proper Tank Liner Selection is Key to Longevity and Safety

What is a Tank Lining?

A tank lining serves to shield the underlying material from chemical corrosion within the tank. An effective tank lining should create a seamless barrier, tightly adhere to the substrate, seal any gaps, offer cost-efficient corrosion protection, and avert potential disruptions.

Federal regulations mandate that water holding tanks with capacities under 110 gallons must be appropriately lined to ensure chemical containment and prevent leakage.

For years, the oil and gas sector has attributed tank failures and discharges to corrosion within storage facilities. Consequently, owners commonly implement corrosion mitigation measures to safeguard their investments and prolong tank lifespan.

Effects of Corrosion and how to Prevent it

Corrosion refers to the gradual deterioration of materials due to chemical reactions with their environment. Metals, plastics, and other substances can be affected when they come into contact with certain chemicals. This process can compromise the strength, appearance, and ability of materials and structures to resist the passage of liquids and gases. One effective solution is to apply a high-quality, corrosion-resistant coating to the surface.

Many advanced coatings offer exceptional resistance to corrosion and wear. However, specialized coatings are necessary to withstand strong acids, alkalis, solvents, gases, oxidizers, extreme temperatures, and other factors typically encountered during storage and transportation.

Protecting both the inside and outside of metal tanks is crucial. Environmental factors and stored products can accelerate steel corrosion, potentially leading to structural damage if left unchecked. This can result in significant costs for repairs, lost production, environmental damage, and other indirect expenses for the owner.

Selecting the right coating is essential for cost-effective corrosion protection. Failure to do so may lead to contamination of stored products and deterioration of the tank. Therefore, careful consideration of various criteria is necessary when choosing and applying a coating.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Chemical Tank Liners

1. The Type of Chemicals in the Storage Tanks

Various chemicals exhibit different reactions when stored in tanks, influenced by the tank type and material used. Most industrial tanks, whether aboveground or underground, are typically constructed from steel or fiberglass. Consequently, many chemicals interact with the tank walls, leading to corrosion. Common corrosive chemicals include hydrochloric acid and peracetic acid. To ensure safe containment of chemicals, all chemical-handling facilities should utilize chemical liners for their industrial tanks. It’s essential to consider the specific chemicals in use before selecting a tank liner, as different liners may vary in corrosion resistance.

2. Compliance with the State and Federal Regulations

Establishing operational standards for critical industries is 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

Given the diverse sizes, heights, and shapes of tanks within your facility, there’s no universal solution for chemical liners. Customization is key, as each chemical liner must be tailored to fit the specific dimensions of the tank. Complete coverage is essential to prevent chemical corrosion of the tank’s interior surface. Failure to adequately cover all areas may leave some sections exposed, leading to corrosion and potential contamination of stored chemicals. To mitigate these risks and ensure long-term durability, it’s imperative to utilize customized chemical liners designed for each tank within your plant.

4. Expert Installation

Tank lining installation requires precision and technical expertise, making it essential to enlist a team of experienced professionals for the task. Ideally, the company supplying the liner products should also offer installation services to ensure proper fitting and functionality. Given the significant investment in chemical liners, ensuring accurate installation is crucial to avoid frequent replacements due to premature wear or damage. Poorly installed liners may allow chemicals to reach the tank’s interior surface, leading to further deterioration and potential reactions. Thus, professional installation is imperative.

Plant managers recognize the vital role of chemical liners in protecting both stored chemicals and tank integrity. Mishandling corrosive chemicals poses risks to plant operations and the environment, underscoring the importance of high-quality liners. By employing industrial tank liners, the longevity of chemical tanks is enhanced, ensuring optimal protection and prolonged 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 Vegas by American Tanks at +1 800 656 0167

Or email at info@paneltanks.vegas

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