Here is everything you need to know about plastic tanks and their use.
You will learn:
Plastic tanks are versatile storage containers designed to hold large volumes of liquids, chemicals, water, or granular materials across a wide range of industrial and commercial applications. These tanks are manufactured in both vertical and horizontal configurations and can be installed above ground or below ground depending on space requirements and usage needs. Plastic tanks may be permanently installed or designed for portability, allowing them to be relocated as operational demands change. Engineered for long-term performance, they resist corrosion, UV exposure, weathering, and material degradation. As a result, industries such as manufacturing, agriculture, chemical processing, fuel storage, and water treatment rely on plastic tanks for safe, efficient material storage and handling.
When compared to steel, stainless steel, or lined tanks, plastic tanks are often more cost-effective and require less maintenance while offering excellent durability. They are relatively easy to install and, when properly specified and installed, can provide a service life of 20 to 30 years or more. The longevity of a plastic tank depends on several factors, including proper installation practices, compatibility with stored chemicals, adequate venting, environmental exposure, and the correct selection of fittings and accessories. When these factors are carefully addressed, plastic tanks deliver reliable, long-term storage performance at a lower total cost of ownership.
Plastic tank manufacturing uses advanced, proven production processes to deliver tanks with high strength, long service life, and excellent chemical resistance. These manufacturing methods support a wide range of applications, including water storage, chemical containment, agricultural operations, and industrial processing. The most common plastic tank production techniques include rotational molding (roto-molding), blow molding, and injection molding. High-performance materials such as high-density polyethylene (HDPE), linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE), and polypropylene are widely used due to their resistance to corrosion, UV exposure, impact, and chemical degradation. These engineered polymers ensure reliable performance in demanding environments, making plastic tanks well suited for potable water storage, fuel containment, and chemical handling. The sections below explain the primary processes used to manufacture plastic storage tanks.
Rotational molding, often referred to as roto molding, is the most widely used manufacturing method for producing large, seamless plastic tanks. This low-pressure process relies on controlled heat and a rotating mold that moves on multiple axes, allowing molten plastic to evenly coat the interior surface. Precision-machined steel molds define the tank’s size, wall thickness, and integrated features. Rotational molding is especially popular for manufacturing chemical storage tanks, wastewater tanks, and agricultural water tanks because it produces one-piece, seam-free vessels that reduce the risk of leaks, stress points, and contamination.
In the loading stage, powdered polymer resin—selected for chemical compatibility, strength, and environmental resistance—is carefully measured and placed into the mold. The resin quantity is precisely calculated to achieve the required wall thickness and structural performance. Plastic tank colors commonly include white, green, gray, and black, with darker colors offering increased UV protection and reduced light penetration. This helps limit algae growth in water storage tanks and improves long-term outdoor durability. Color selection is often dictated by the tank’s intended use, such as potable water storage, fuel containment, or hazardous chemical handling, to meet safety and regulatory standards.
After loading, the mold enters a large industrial oven, where it is heated while rotating continuously. The heat melts the polymer resin, allowing it to coat the mold interior evenly as the mold rotates at controlled speeds and angles. Computer-controlled systems regulate temperature and rotation to ensure uniform wall thickness and optimal structural strength. This stage produces a seamless, impact-resistant plastic tank. Depending on tank size and design—ranging from compact industrial tanks to large-capacity water storage tanks—the heating cycle typically lasts one to three hours.
Once heating is complete, the mold is gradually cooled while continuing to rotate. Controlled cooling allows the molten plastic to solidify evenly against the mold walls, reducing internal stresses and preventing warping or deformation. Proper cooling is especially critical for large plastic tanks, as dimensional accuracy and structural integrity directly affect long-term performance. This phase can take up to an hour and plays a key role in ensuring the tank’s durability, shape stability, and load-bearing capacity.
After the tank has fully cooled and solidified, it is removed from the mold. Smaller plastic tanks may be removed manually, while large industrial tanks often require forklifts or overhead cranes. Careful handling during removal prevents surface damage, cracking, or punctures that could compromise leak resistance. At this stage, secondary operations such as cutting openings for fittings, manways, drains, and inlet or outlet ports are performed. These custom modifications allow tanks to be configured for specific industrial, agricultural, municipal, or commercial applications.
Compared to injection molding, rotational molding is a highly cost-effective method for producing large, seamless, and weather-resistant plastic tanks. The absence of seams or weld lines minimizes failure points, resulting in leak-proof storage solutions suitable for potable water, agricultural liquids, industrial chemicals, and fuels. After manufacturing, plastic tanks typically undergo quality assurance testing, including visual inspection, hydrostatic testing, and pressure testing, to ensure compliance with industry and safety standards.
Blow molding is a high-volume manufacturing process commonly used to produce smaller plastic tanks, containers, and drums. This method forms hollow products by inflating a heated thermoplastic tube, called a parison, inside a closed mold. Materials such as HDPE, polypropylene, and PVC are frequently used due to their strength, chemical resistance, and consistency. Blow molding is widely used for portable water tanks, automotive fuel tanks, and chemical transport containers where repeatability and production speed are critical.
The blow molding process begins with extrusion, where plastic resin is fed into a hopper and melted inside an extruder. A rotating screw heats and conveys the resin toward the blow pin, producing a molten tube known as the parison. The parison’s length, diameter, and wall thickness determine the final tank size and capacity, allowing manufacturers to produce custom container dimensions for specific storage and transport requirements.
Once the parison is positioned inside the mold, compressed air is introduced, forcing the molten plastic to expand and conform to the mold cavity. This creates consistent wall thickness and uniform strength throughout the tank. Blow molding is highly automated and supports rapid production rates, making it ideal for industries requiring large quantities of plastic containers, including agriculture, automotive manufacturing, chemical handling, and consumer water storage.
Injection blow molding improves dimensional accuracy by forming the parison using an injection mold before transferring it to the blow mold. This approach produces smooth surfaces and tight tolerances, making it well suited for small to medium-sized tanks and containers where appearance and precision are important.
Stretch blow molding is less common for large storage tanks but is used to manufacture pressure-resistant containers. In this process, a heated preform is stretched and expanded with compressed air, resulting in strong, impact-resistant products for specialized applications.
Plastic welding is an essential fabrication and repair technique used for plastic tanks when installing fittings, repairing damage, or joining plastic components. The process applies controlled heat and pressure to fuse compatible thermoplastics, creating a strong, watertight, and airtight bond. Proper plastic welding is critical for maintaining leak resistance and structural integrity, particularly in tanks exposed to corrosive chemicals or harsh environmental conditions.
The plastic welding process includes surface preparation to remove contaminants, the application of heat and pressure using hot air, extrusion, or ultrasonic welding equipment, and controlled cooling to solidify the joint. A V-shaped groove is often machined along the seam to promote full material fusion. For best results, the welding rod material must match the tank resin—such as HDPE welded to HDPE or polypropylene to polypropylene.
While alternative joining methods like adhesives or mechanical fasteners exist, plastic welding provides superior strength, chemical resistance, and long-term durability. Professionally welded tanks can withstand thermal cycling, vibration, and pressure fluctuations, extending service life and maintaining compliance with industry standards.
Manufacturers frequently use plastic welding to customize tanks with fittings, overflow protection, sensors, or monitoring systems. When specifying a custom plastic tank, selecting a supplier with certified plastic welding capabilities ensures reliable performance, safety, and long-term value.
The range of plastic tanks available today is broad, encompassing many designs, configurations, and material options suited for industrial, commercial, agricultural, and residential use. Advances in polymer science and plastic tank manufacturing have significantly expanded their capabilities, allowing plastic tanks to serve as reliable storage solutions for water, chemicals, fuels, and bulk materials. Depending on the application, some plastic tanks are designed for general-purpose storage, while others are engineered for specialized requirements such as food-grade liquids, corrosive chemicals, or hazardous materials.
Plastic tanks are commonly classified by the polymer used in their construction, including high-density polyethylene (HDPE), cross-linked polyethylene (XLPE), polypropylene, and polyvinyl chloride (PVC). Selecting the appropriate material is critical, as it determines the tank’s resistance to chemicals, ultraviolet exposure, corrosion, and temperature extremes. This material-based classification is especially important for applications involving aggressive chemicals, outdoor exposure, or long-term storage.
Another method of classification is by application or intended use. Plastic tanks are widely used for potable water storage, rainwater collection, wastewater management, chemical processing, agricultural irrigation, and the bulk storage of fertilizers, oils, acids, and industrial fluids. In regulated industries such as pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, food and beverage, plastic tanks must meet stringent hygiene, traceability, and compliance standards to ensure product safety and quality.
Plastic tanks are also categorized by installation location or placement. Whether installed above ground, underground, or mounted on mobile equipment, the installation environment plays a major role in determining tank design, wall thickness, reinforcement, and overall capacity.
Vertical plastic tanks are among the most widely used storage tank configurations due to their versatility and efficient footprint. Their upright cylindrical design and reinforced walls allow for the safe storage of liquids such as potable water, rainwater, industrial chemicals, and process fluids. These above-ground tanks provide easy access for filling, inspection, and cleaning. In certain applications, vertical tanks can also be installed underground within reinforced enclosures to provide added protection from external forces and temperature variations. This flexibility makes vertical plastic tanks well suited for municipal water systems, industrial processing facilities, and fire protection storage.
Horizontal plastic tanks are designed primarily for mobile storage and the transportation of liquids. Frequently mounted on trailers, trucks, or skids, these tanks are commonly used in agriculture for fertilizer and pesticide transport, as well as in industrial applications for fuel and wastewater hauling. Their low-profile design lowers the center of gravity during transport, improving stability and safety. Multiple access points on the top and sides allow for efficient filling, drainage, and dispensing, helping operators reduce downtime and improve productivity.
Underground plastic tanks are engineered to withstand soil pressure, moisture exposure, and long-term underground conditions. These tanks often feature ribbed or reinforced walls to resist deformation caused by earth loads. Common applications include residential rainwater harvesting, septic systems, and underground fuel or wastewater storage. Installing tanks below ground conserves surface space, improves safety, and protects stored materials from environmental exposure. Proper installation practices—including bedding, backfill, and venting—are essential to ensure compliance with environmental regulations and to maximize tank lifespan.
Silo tanks, also known as cone-bottom plastic tanks, are designed to allow complete and efficient material discharge through a tapered base. This gravity-assisted design minimizes residue buildup and simplifies material handling. Mounted on steel or polymer support stands, silo tanks are widely used for dry bulk materials, fertilizer blending, and liquid mixing operations. Their ability to drain fully and support rapid material changeover makes them valuable in agriculture, food processing, and manufacturing environments where cleanliness and operational efficiency are critical.
Double wall plastic tanks, often referred to as secondary containment tanks, feature an inner storage vessel surrounded by an outer containment shell. This dual-wall construction provides an added layer of protection against leaks, spills, and environmental contamination. Double wall tanks are commonly required for storing hazardous chemicals, fuels, and regulated liquids. Manufactured from durable materials such as HDPE or XLPE, these tanks offer excellent chemical resistance and long service life. They are widely used in chemical plants, wastewater treatment facilities, and industrial storage sites where environmental protection and regulatory compliance are paramount.
Cylindrical plastic tanks are manufactured from high-performance polymers such as polyethylene and polypropylene, offering strong resistance to corrosion, UV exposure, and aggressive chemicals. These tanks are commonly used in chemical processing, pharmaceutical production, water treatment, and mixing applications. Available in both single-wall and double-wall designs, cylindrical tanks can be installed vertically for bulk storage or horizontally with integrated support structures. Their adaptability to indoor and outdoor environments, combined with low maintenance requirements, makes them a cost-effective solution for long-term liquid storage.
Stackable plastic tanks offer a space-efficient solution for storing and managing bulk liquids in facilities where floor space is limited. Their modular, stackable design allows tanks to be securely placed on top of one another without specialized racking systems. Commonly used in warehouses, industrial plants, fleet maintenance operations, and agriculture, these tanks help improve organization and reduce spill risks. Constructed from chemical-resistant polymers, stackable tanks are available in a range of capacities and often include features such as graduated volume markings, sealed lids, and integrated dispensing valves. Their ability to maximize vertical space improves storage efficiency while maintaining safety and accessibility.
When choosing a plastic tank, it is important to evaluate factors such as material compatibility (HDPE, XLPE, polypropylene, PVC), the type of substance being stored, installation conditions, capacity requirements, and regulatory compliance standards such as NSF, FDA, or EPA approvals. Selecting the correct tank design ensures safe operation, long service life, and reliable performance for applications ranging from potable water storage to chemical containment and industrial process support.
The primary manufacturing methods for plastic tanks are rotational molding, blow molding, and injection molding. Each process ensures tanks are strong, seamless, and resistant to chemicals, making them suitable for water storage, chemical containment, and industrial applications.
A properly installed plastic tank can last 20 to 30 years. Lifespan depends on installation, chemical contents, adequate venting, and correct pipe fittings.
Underground plastic tanks with ribbed or corrugated structures are ideal for installation below ground. They resist soil pressures and are commonly used for rainwater harvesting, septic systems, and underground fuel storage.
Double wall plastic tanks feature inner and outer chambers, providing secondary containment to prevent leaks and soil or groundwater contamination. They're essential for hazardous and industrial chemical storage, ensuring regulatory compliance.
High-density polyethylene (HDPE), cross-linked polyethylene (XLPE), polypropylene, and PVC are widely used for plastic tanks due to their chemical resistance, UV stability, and durability in diverse environments.
Yes. Plastic tanks can be customized in design, size, fittings, and materials to meet requirements for agriculture, pharmaceuticals, beverage processing, and more. Customization ensures compliance and optimal performance.
The design and performance of a plastic tank are directly influenced by the type of material it is intended to store. Plastic tanks have become increasingly popular due to their affordability, durability, and adaptability to a wide range of applications. They are widely used in industries such as food and beverage processing, wastewater treatment, chemical manufacturing, agriculture, and industrial material handling, where resistance to corrosion and long service life are critical.
Beyond installation orientation and capacity, plastic tanks are also categorized by the type of polymer used in their construction. The most commonly used materials include polyethylene, polypropylene, and fiberglass-reinforced plastics. Each polymer offers distinct advantages in terms of chemical compatibility, strength, temperature resistance, and environmental durability, making material selection a key factor in ensuring safe and efficient tank operation.
Polyethylene is one of the most widely used thermoplastics for manufacturing plastic tanks due to its excellent resistance to chemicals, abrasion, and environmental stress. Its durability, impact resistance, and relatively low cost make it an ideal choice for water storage tanks, chemical containment tanks, and agricultural storage applications. The natural color of polyethylene ranges from translucent white to yellowish, depending on wall thickness and resin formulation. For outdoor installations, polyethylene tanks are commonly treated with ultraviolet (UV) stabilizers to protect against sunlight degradation and extend service life.
Polyethylene used in plastic tanks is typically available in two primary forms: linear polyethylene and cross-linked polyethylene.
Polypropylene is a lightweight thermoplastic derived from propylene monomers and is valued for its exceptional chemical resistance and mechanical stability. Although lighter than polyethylene, polypropylene can be strengthened through copolymerization with other polymers, such as polyethylene, to enhance impact resistance and toughness. Its inherent properties—including elasticity, fatigue resistance, and corrosion resistance—make polypropylene well suited for chemical storage tanks and industrial process vessels.
Polypropylene is highly versatile and can be fabricated using various manufacturing techniques. It is available in two primary forms: homopolymer and copolymer. Homopolymer polypropylene is the most commonly used grade, while copolymer polypropylene—particularly block copolymers—offers improved impact resistance and structural strength.
Due to its excellent resistance to corrosive and reactive substances, polypropylene is frequently used for storing acids, bases, and chemical solutions. It can tolerate continuous operating temperatures up to approximately 212°F, making it suitable for applications requiring sterilization or autoclaving. One characteristic of polypropylene tanks is their slightly rough or textured interior surface, which can influence cleaning or material flow depending on the application.
Fiberglass storage tanks are commonly used in both above-ground and underground applications where strength, corrosion resistance, and long-term durability are required. Constructed from fiberglass-reinforced plastic composites, these tanks resist weathering, chemical attack, and structural deterioration. Their impermeable, monolithic construction eliminates the need for secondary waterproofing layers.
Fiberglass tanks are lighter than many traditional metal tanks, making them easier to transport, install, and relocate. These characteristics make fiberglass plastic tanks a practical choice for water storage, wastewater treatment, fuel containment, and chemical storage in environments where structural integrity and resistance to harsh conditions are essential.
Plastic storage tanks manufactured from polyethylene and polypropylene provide a highly cost-effective and durable solution for storing liquids and bulk materials across many industries. Prior to the widespread use of plastic tanks, metal containers were the standard for storing liquids, grains, and granular substances. Advancements in polymer science and manufacturing technology have introduced plastic storage tanks that outperform traditional metal tanks in terms of corrosion resistance, longevity, and overall structural reliability.
Early plastic storage tanks were primarily utilized for agricultural water storage, supporting livestock, crop irrigation, and farming operations. As plastic materials became more versatile and chemically resistant, plastic tanks rapidly expanded into industrial, commercial, and municipal applications, supporting a broad range of storage requirements.
Plastic tanks are widely used for water storage due to their adaptability, durability, and ease of installation. They can be readily connected to roof downspouts for rainwater harvesting or integrated into commercial and industrial water collection systems. In rural and remote areas, plastic water storage tanks play a critical role in supplementing limited or unreliable water supplies. Their versatility allows them to safely store many water types, including potable water, saltwater, distilled water, wastewater, groundwater, rainwater, and melted snow.
Plastic storage tanks are available in a wide range of sizes, wall thicknesses, strengths, and specifications to safely contain chemicals used in industrial and manufacturing environments. Their flexibility in placement—both above ground and underground—and their ability to withstand extreme weather conditions make them a preferred choice for chemical storage applications. Polyethylene plastic tanks, in particular, are increasingly replacing metal tanks because they resist rust, corrosion, and chemical degradation.
These tanks are commonly used to store fertilizers, pesticides, pharmaceutical compounds, and industrial chemicals, including acids such as hydrochloric acid, sulfuric acid, sodium hypochlorite, and nitric acid. When storing corrosive substances, selecting the correct plastic material is essential. Proper tank selection depends on evaluating the chemical compatibility, strength, and resistance characteristics of the polymer to ensure safe long-term storage.
Plastic storage tanks are also well suited for fuel storage and are frequently used at racetracks, manufacturing facilities, service garages, and industrial sites. The polyethylene construction of these tanks allows them to safely store a wide range of fuels, including diesel, gasoline, butane, and natural gas. Their resistance to corrosion and environmental exposure makes them a reliable alternative to metal fuel tanks.
Grain feed bins and bulk storage tanks are designed to hold corn, soybeans, animal feed, and other granular agricultural products. These tanks are typically manufactured from UV-stabilized polyethylene with wall thicknesses around 3/16 inch. Plastic storage tanks are preferred for grain storage because they do not rust, corrode, or deteriorate due to weather exposure—common issues with metal storage bins.
In addition, the smooth interior surface of plastic tanks helps prevent material bridging and flow obstruction. The absence of rivets, seams, and sharp edges further reduces clogging and contamination, making plastic tanks a practical and low-maintenance solution for agricultural storage.
Plastic septic tanks have become a popular alternative for wastewater collection due to their long service life, ease of installation, and lower overall cost compared to traditional concrete or metal systems. Most plastic septic tanks are manufactured using rotational molding, resulting in a seamless, one-piece construction that minimizes the risk of leaks or structural failure.
Unlike other septic tank materials, plastic septic tanks do not require specialized coatings or corrosion protection. Polyethylene is naturally resistant to soil chemicals and gases generated by sewage systems, making it well suited for underground wastewater applications. This chemical resistance, combined with lightweight construction and durability, makes plastic septic tanks a reliable and efficient solution for residential, commercial, and rural wastewater management.
Plastic tanks are widely used across numerous industries because of their exceptional durability, corrosion resistance, and ability to perform reliably in harsh and hazardous environments. As polymer technology and manufacturing methods have advanced, plastic tanks have become indispensable storage solutions for commercial, municipal, agricultural, and industrial operations seeking cost-effective and long-lasting containment systems.
Plastic tanks are utilized by a broad range of organizations and sectors, including fire departments, wastewater and sewage operations, pharmaceutical manufacturers, electroplating facilities, food processors, agricultural producers, and water treatment plants, among many others.
Plastic water tanks used in fire pumping trucks offer a lightweight alternative to metal tanks, significantly reducing stress on the vehicle chassis while maintaining high structural strength. These tanks are available in capacities ranging from as small as 5 gallons to as large as 5,000 gallons. Compared to steel tanks, plastic tanks are lighter and up to 90% stronger, improving vehicle performance and fuel efficiency. To be installed on fire trucks, these tanks must be approved by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and comply with all applicable safety and performance standards.
Plastic tanks used in electroplating applications must provide superior chemical resistance to withstand strong acids, alkaline solutions, organic solvents, degreasers, and electrolytes used throughout the plating process. These tanks are purpose-built for electroplating operations and often include integrated features such as racks, bus bars, and reinforced walls to support electrical conductivity systems and continuous chemical exposure. Their resistance to corrosion and chemical attack makes plastic tanks essential in electroplating facilities.
Plastic tanks used in pharmaceutical manufacturing must comply with strict standards established by the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) and meet regulatory requirements enforced by governmental and oversight agencies. Key priorities for pharmaceutical storage tanks include cleanliness, sterility, and contamination prevention. Plastic tanks are commonly used to store and transport powders, chemicals, and granular materials because they support hygienic handling, are easy to clean, and maintain consistent product integrity throughout pharmaceutical processes.
Sewer truck plastic tanks are favored over metal alternatives because they do not rust or corrode, which significantly extends service life and reduces maintenance costs. These tanks are easy to clean and sanitize and are highly resistant to the chemical composition of wastewater and sewage. Their lighter weight combined with large storage capacity allows for fewer disposal trips, improving operational efficiency in municipal and industrial waste collection.
Degreasing plastic tanks are commonly manufactured from polypropylene, a material well suited for handling degreasing agents due to its non-stick surface and excellent resistance to chemicals and corrosion. These tanks are often mobile, allowing them to be easily relocated within a facility or stored when not in use. Unlike metal tanks, plastic degreasing tanks are molded as a single, seamless unit, eliminating leak points and enhancing operational safety.
Plastic tanks used in food processing applications must meet Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulations governing materials that come into contact with food products. Approval is based on the finished tank rather than the raw resin alone, meaning that manufacturing methods and final construction play a critical role in compliance. Even if a resin is FDA-approved, the completed tank must still meet strict hygiene and safety standards.
A major design consideration for food-grade plastic tanks is complete drainage. Tanks must be engineered to fully empty contents to prevent spoilage, contamination, or product residue buildup. All fittings, access ports, and outlets must be securely sealed to ensure sanitary operation and prevent leaks or product loss.
Plastic tanks used in fish farming and aquaculture are subject to the same FDA regulations as tanks used for food processing. These tanks typically incorporate overflow systems to maintain consistent water levels and may include dividers to manage fish movement. Drop-in baskets and chute systems are often integrated to facilitate safe and efficient fish transfer.
Effective pumping and filtration systems are essential components of fish farming tanks, ensuring proper water circulation, oxygenation, and waste removal. These systems are critical to maintaining fish health and meeting regulatory standards for aquaculture operations.
Plastic tanks are extensively used throughout the agricultural industry because of their strength, durability, flexibility, and ability to withstand extreme weather conditions. They are commonly used to store and transport fuels, fertilizers, pesticides, and water for irrigation and livestock. Agricultural plastic tanks are valued for their ease of handling, resistance to corrosion, and long service life, making them a reliable storage solution for modern farming operations.
Like any tool, plastic tanks require proper care to maintain their performance. Although they are sturdy and long-lasting, plastic tanks can deteriorate if not regularly inspected and maintained. This is particularly important for tanks in harsh or hazardous environments. Tanks intended for storing volatile or explosive materials need extra attention to ensure safety and environmental protection.
Elevated temperatures pose a significant risk to sensitive equipment, including plastic tanks. Prolonged exposure to high temperatures can drastically shorten the tank's lifespan. The impact of temperature on a tank depends on factors such as the contents, tank size and configuration, construction methods, wall thickness, and support structures.
Assessing the effects of heat on buried tanks is more challenging, but most are designed with adequate insulation to withstand their operational environment.
Thermoplastics not treated with UV protective coatings are susceptible to damage from UV rays. Exposure leads to discoloration and brittleness, which can result in cracking under high temperatures. Manufacturers account for weathering and harsh conditions during construction to ensure tanks meet application requirements.
Polyethylene materials, depending on their type, can be prone to cracking, especially when exposed to certain detergents. Stress cracking is often caused by surface agents like fillers and tie-downs. Choosing the right plastic type and following safety procedures can minimize cracking risks.
The placement of plastic tanks is crucial for their longevity. Tanks on uneven ground or high-traffic areas are more susceptible to stress and cracking. Proper support is essential, whether for transport or stationary use. Care should be taken during loading and unloading to ensure the tank remains balanced and centered.
Installing plastic tanks involves evaluating the impact of surrounding conditions. Tanks should be placed away from potential hazards like falling debris from trees or rocks. Severe weather conditions also require tanks to be designed to handle temperature fluctuations and precipitation without damage.
Plastic tanks vary in design and purpose. While some are versatile, others are purpose-built for specific functions. When purchasing and installing a tank, review the manufacturer’s specifications and limitations to ensure it meets the required temperature and environmental conditions, which can help extend its lifespan.
Regular cleaning is vital for maintaining the effectiveness of a plastic tank. Though often considered for food and chemical industries, cleaning is important for all tanks to ensure they remain in good working condition. Proper maintenance practices can significantly extend the tank's life.
Tanks used in reverse osmosis processes must withstand high pressures. Regular maintenance and inspections are crucial to detect cracks or weak points. Despite the durability of most plastics, checking for deterioration helps ensure the tank performs reliably.
To ensure the longevity of a plastic tank, it is crucial that its piping is connected correctly. When a plastic tank is filled with liquid, the plastic walls expand, which is often not visible to the naked eye. This expansion is more pronounced when storing warm liquids.
If a drain or fill pipe is attached to a plastic tank, it must accommodate the movement of the tank walls during expansion to prevent stress and cracking. The solution is to use an expansion fitting or joint that allows the tank fitting to move freely.
The most effective method for handling tank wall expansion and contraction is to connect the plastic tank fittings directly to a threaded plastic hose barb adapter and use a flexible plastic tube approximately 12 to 18 inches long with stainless steel band clamps. A lightweight plastic valve should be installed between the tank fitting and the tube but should not be secured until the expansion fitting is in place, otherwise, the expansion fitting’s purpose will be compromised. Alternative fittings, such as bellows-type expansion joints, can also be used.
Proper piping installation is essential for extending the lifespan and ensuring the durability of a plastic tank.
The lifespan of plastic tanks varies depending on their location. Indoor tanks are shielded from UV rays and, provided they are maintained at ambient temperatures and properly plumbed, can last over 30 years.
Outdoor tanks, exposed to UV rays and extreme climates, typically last about 20 years. To extend their lifespan, outdoor tanks can be covered with roofs or shelters, painted, or fitted with tank jackets. Jackets help protect against freezing and UV damage, thereby extending the tank’s life.
Plastic tanks, used for storing volatile materials, food products, acids, and chemicals, became subject to Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulations when they were first introduced in 1988. Initially focusing on metal tanks, these regulations have since been updated to include more specific requirements for plastic tanks.
Underground tanks, which are primarily used for storing fuel and collecting waste, pose significant environmental risks due to potential seepage. Recognizing the environmental hazards associated with these tanks, the EPA has implemented stricter regulations to address these concerns.
For tanks used in the production of food and pharmaceuticals, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) establishes regulations. These guidelines cover the types of materials used and the design standards necessary to ensure safety and compliance in food processing and pharmaceutical applications.
Regulations for plastic storage tanks by the EPA are categorized into two classifications: Underground Storage Tanks (UST) and Above Ground Storage Tanks (AST). These regulations are governed by the Spill Prevention, Control, and Countermeasure (SPCC) regulations, specifically under 40 CFR Part 112.
The SPCC defines a bulk storage container as:
… any container used to store oil. These containers serve purposes including, but not limited to, storing oil before its use, during its use, or before further distribution in commerce.
Oil-filled electrical, operating, or manufacturing equipment is not classified as a bulk storage container. (from epa.gov/ust)
To aid in inspecting bulk containers, the SPCC provides a fact inspection sheet available on the EPA website. The regulations primarily focus on the storage of volatile materials such as fuels, gases, and chemicals.
The FDA focuses on materials and equipment that will come into contact with food or items intended for human consumption. For plastic tanks used in food storage or construction, the FDA maintains a list of approved resins. Manufacturers producing food-grade plastic tanks strictly adhere to these FDA guidelines, enhancing the credibility and appeal of their products.
A plastic water tank is a large capacity container designed to store water for household, agricultural, irrigation, and industrial manufacturing use. There are various types of water tanks produced to meet the needs of specific applications, with...
A poly tank is a plastic storage tank used to store, transport, and collect water, other liquids, and granular or powder materials. They are made of polyethylene or polypropylene and are a cost effective, lightweight, and easy to handle...
Blow molding is a type of plastic forming process for creating hollow plastic products made from thermoplastic materials. The process involves heating and inflating a plastic tube known as a parison or preform. The parison is placed between two dies that contain the desired shape of the product...
Nylon tubing, also known as polyamide tubing, is a type of tubing made from polyamide resin, which has a strongresistance to abrasion. It is used in high-pressure and high-temperature applications...
Plastic bottles are bottles made of high or low-density plastic, such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polycarbonate (PC), or polyvinyl chloride (PVC). Each of the materials mentioned has...
Plastic containers are material storage products made of a variety of plastics. Plastics are an ideal material for creating containers. They are known for their excellent formability, degradation resistance, durability, lightweight, recyclability, and controllable mechanical properties...
A plastic corrugated box is a disposable container with three layers of material consisting of an inner layer, an outer layer, and a middle layer on its sides. Corrugated plastic is known by various names, including...
Plastic crates are containers used for moving or transporting goods from point A to point B. They are also used for storage and are made of exclusively or partially plastic material. The basic material is plastic...
A plastic tote is a box type portable storage container that is made of resilient and durable plastic that is capable of withstanding heavy duty use in industrial and residential settings. They come in...
Plastic tubing is a form of tubing that is manufactured from a mixture of a polymer with a variety of chemicals to form a material that can be solid or flexible. Since its first use in the 1950‘s, plastic tubing has revolutionized industrial processes and has found a use in a wide variety of applications...
Poly tubing is a highly flexible, lightweight, and durable tubing that is produced from polyethylene, a polymer that is made from the polymerization of ethylene. It is a very versatile form of tubing that has break and crack resistant walls...
PVC is a tough chemically resistant synthetic polymer of vinyl chloride used especially for making pipes, films and electrical insulation. It is made by polymerizing vinyl chloride, and...
Rotational molding, commonly referred to as "rotomolding", is a plastic casting technique used to produce hollow, seamless, and double-walled parts. It uses a hollow mold tool wherein the thermoplastic powdered resin is heated while being rotated and cooled to solidify...