Tank Linings Selection Requires Careful Consideration

Most of the time, tank linings are out of sight, out of mind—that is, until something goes wrong. Selecting the right tank lining can prevent mishaps from occurring, though. If you’re wondering how to select the best lining option for your tanks, just keep reading to learn about what to look for.

When Selecting Tank Linings, Consider What You’re Storing

The contents and makeup of your tanks will play a huge role in helping you pick the correct tank liners. Make sure you choose one that can stand up to any corrosive chemicals or harsh substances you plan to store; for example, slurry brings with it abrasion, which can wear out the wrong lining quickly.

Temperature plays a role as well, per Corrosionpedia: Certain coatings will stand up to heated contents, while others will fail. The curing rate is important, too; for instance, if the tanks are in a cold area, they will need a cold-weather lining that is able to cure in those conditions.

Another factor is the tanks themselves. As a case in point: When the outside temperature changes, steel tanks tend to expand and contract. Therefore, if your tanks are made of steel and see temperature changes throughout the year, then you’ll want to choose a liner that responds well to that situation.

Case Histories

The performance history can be a valuable indicator of how different tank liners will perform in your specific tanks. To gain this information, contact the manufacturer and ask about how the lining has held up against the substance(s) you plan on storing. If no such data is available, ask if any tests have been performed. If all else fails, two other options are to send in a substance sample to the manufacturer for testing or perform the test on your own with manufacturer-provided lining samples.

Health, Safety, and the Environment

Health, safety, and the environment are important concerns. New products make health and safety easier to achieve with no tradeoff in performance; for example, Corrosionpedia points out that “non-toxic, flashpoint-free, solvent-free, COV-free and BPA-free” lining products are now an option. Any coatings contractor will tell you that the absence of solvents greatly increases safety for applicator crews.

Many industries that have a need to store chemicals also draw examination from regulatory entities and environmentally conscious consumers, and selecting the correct liners can help your operation please both. Keeping the environment in mind may even help your business’s bottom line: According to Business News Daily, one survey found that more customers than ever are shifting toward prioritizing environmentally friendly products. Safer workers, a healthier environment, and happier customers all add up to a win-win situation.

Need Tank Liners and Coatings Service in the Bay Area?

PICON has served as full-service industrial specialists for the corrosion resistant industry since 1986.  Our specialty is fiberglass (Fiber Reinforced Plastics, FRP).  Being “full-service” means we have the ability to design and fabricate high quality FRP products as well as provide complete field services including installation, repair, restoration, retrofit, reline, coating, inspection and maintenance. Our experienced field technicians are OSHA and Confined Space Entry certified to provide services in standard, hazardous or confined space settings.   Our prompt field service is part of the added value that many of our customers appreciate. Contact us or call 510-232-0065