Why We Use FRP Repairs for Tank Leaks and Tank Linings

Concrete, fiberglass, and steel tanks are used in various industries to store water, chemicals, and other materials. As sturdy and reliable as these materials often are, they are still subject to corrosion over time, which leads to costly and dangerous leaks. Corroded or otherwise damaged tank linings need to be repaired, and the most efficient way to do that is with fiber-reinforced plastic, or FRP repairs. FRP is a composite material made from a polymer matrix that is reinforced with fibers. FRP used in tank lining repairs is usually in the form of an epoxy resin that can be applied to the lining or exterior of a tank to strengthen it. When it is applied to the inside of a tank, it acts as a highly durable moisture barrier that can significantly slow down corrosion and prevent even the most corrosive and caustic chemicals from leaking.

Benefits of FRP Repairs

There are plenty of reasons why we use FRP for tank leak repair. First of all, it’s simple to use FRP epoxy resin to make either internal or external repairs, often without adding much to the thickness of the tank wall. In most cases, the resin will only add about a quarter of an inch to the wall’s thickness. Repairs can also be completed quickly, resulting in minimal downtime for any tanks that need to be repaired. FRP can be molded into practically any shape and used in any kind of tank, so any pipes and other fittings that are a part of your tanks will stay in place during any FRP repairs. Finally, FRP makes for a great moisture barrier when applied to the interior of a tank lining. This will protect the tank lining from future corrosion, especially if you add more than one FRP layer during repairs.

How Long do FRP Linings Last?

When they are installed properly, FRP tank linings can last up to 20 years. This will depend on the conditions the linings are exposed to; a water tank will hold up a lot longer than a container used to hold corrosive chemicals. Still, FRP is highly resistant to corrosion compared to many other tank lining materials, making them the perfect choice when you need to store or haul caustic materials.

Thanks to its versatility and resistance to heat and corrosion, fiber-reinforced plastic is the ideal material to use when repairing or replacing tank linings. It can be molded into practically any shape, it barely adds any thickness to the walls of a storage tank, and it can be applied quickly and easily to a tank lining to make a leaking or corroded tank usable again for up to two decades.

Contact Picon FRP, Inc.

For more information on how fiber-reinforced plastic can be used in your storage tanks or to inquire about tank leak repairs, contact Picon today. We’ve worked with clients in the Bay Area and Northern California for over 30 years, and we will be glad to answer any questions that you might have about our services.