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Above ground storage tanks play a crucial role in fulfilling the storage needs of industries such as agriculture, mining, and water storage. Being constantly exposed to potential wear and tear, extreme weather conditions, and corrosive materials, the longevity and efficacy of storage tanks are of paramount importance. Tank liners are an essential solution to this challenge, providing an added layer of protection to your storage tanks, while simultaneously preserving the quality of the stored materials.
Understanding the different types of tank liners and their applications is instrumental in choosing the best lining solution for your storage tanks. In this comprehensive blog, we will discuss various tank liner materials commonly used in the industry, their unique benefits, applications, and methods of installation. We will explore tank liner materials such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyolefins, butyl rubber, and epoxy coatings, detailing their respective advantages and suitability for various storage requirements.
Furthermore, we will highlight ATM Tanks’ expertise in providing high-quality tank liner solutions and services across Australia and the Pacific. As a leading provider of tank design, installation, repairs, and maintenance solutions, ATM Tanks possess the experience and technical proficiency to assist clients in selecting, installing, and maintaining tank liners that cater to their specific storage needs.
By the end of this blog, you will have gained valuable insights into the various types of tank liners and their applications, empowering you to make well-informed decisions regarding the optimal tank liner solution for your storage tanks.
Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) Tank Liners
Polyvinyl chloride, commonly known as PVC, is a popular choice for tank liners due to its affordability, flexibility, and resistance to chemicals. PVC liners are suitable for a wide range of above ground storage tank applications, including water storage, wastewater treatment, and containment of chemicals or acids with low concentrations. Apart from its high chemical resistance, PVC liners also offer resilience against punctures, tears, and UV radiation. These liners are available in various thicknesses, providing options to cater to different storage requirements.
Installation of PVC liners can be achieved using either mechanically fastened or fully adhered methods. The fastened method utilises a series of anchors and fixings to attach the liner to the tank structure, while the fully adhered method involves bonding the liner to the tank substrate using adhesives.
Polyolefin Tank Liners
Polyolefins, such as polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP), are another widespread choice for tank liners due to their versatility and exceptional chemical resistance. Polyolefin tank liners are suitable for a diverse array of applications, including potable water storage, chemical processing, and other industrial purposes. These liners possess high resistance to punctures, impact, and environmental stress cracking, ensuring long-lasting protection to your storage tanks.
Both PE and PP liners can be heat welded during installation, creating a seamless lining system that provides maximum containment against leaks and contamination. Additionally, polyolefin liners can be custom manufactured to tailor-fit your specific storage tank requirements, further enhancing their effectiveness and durability.
Butyl Rubber Tank Liners
Butyl rubber tank liners are known for their excellent flexibility and outstanding resistance to water, chemicals, and gases. These liners are often used in potable water storage tanks, firefighting water storage reservoirs, and industrial applications involving corrosive substances. Butyl rubber liners provide outstanding resistance to temperature variations and have a low permeability to gases, making them a suitable choice for anaerobic digesters and gas containment systems.
Installation of butyl rubber liners can be completed using either adhesive bonding or vulcanised seam welding techniques. Adhesive bonding offers the advantages of quick installation and minimal equipment requirements, while vulcanised seam welding creates strong, watertight seams that enhance the durability and performance of the liner.
Epoxy Coatings
Epoxy coatings are a different approach to tank lining, providing a seamless barrier that is directly applied to the internal surface of the storage tank. These coatings offer excellent adhesion to various substrates, high chemical and abrasion resistance, and can be applied to irregular or complex tank geometries. Epoxy coatings are commonly used in the storage of fuels, oils, and other harsh chemicals, as well as potable water, given their compliance with relevant regulations.
The application of epoxy coatings typically involves surface preparation through abrasive blasting, followed by the application of multiple coating layers. It is crucial to engage qualified professionals for the installation and inspection of epoxy coatings, ensuring compliance with application guidelines and industry standards.
ATM Tanks’ Expertise in Tank Liner Solutions and Services
ATM Tanks offers an extensive range of high-quality tank liner solutions and services to cater to diverse storage requirements. Their team of experienced professionals possesses in-depth knowledge and understanding of various tank liner materials, ensuring that clients receive the most suitable and effective solutions for their storage tanks. Moreover, ATM Tanks offers complete end-to-end support, including installation, repair, and maintenance services, ensuring the performance and durability of your tank liners.
Conclusion
Understanding the different types of tank liners and their applications is vital for selecting the optimal solution for your above ground storage tanks. With materials such as PVC, polyolefins, butyl rubber, and epoxy coatings offering unique benefits, it is essential to consider specific storage requirements, environmental conditions, and regulatory compliance when making your decision. ATM Tanks’ expertise and comprehensive range of tank liner solutions and services enable clients to access valuable guidance, installation, and ongoing support, ensuring the longevity, safety, and efficiency of their storage tanks. By considering the information presented in this blog and seeking the assistance of reputable service providers, you can effectively determine the ideal tank liner solution for your storage requirements.
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