Tank liners might not seem like a big deal at first glance, but they’re a key part of making sure your tank stays in good shape for longer. Whether you’re storing water, chemicals or industrial liquids, a liner acts as a barrier between the tank’s inner wall and its contents. Without that extra layer, the tank becomes more prone to corrosion, leaks or contamination.
If you’re new to storing liquids in tanks, understanding what tank liners do can save you a lot of money, time and stress down the road. They help protect not just the tank, but also whatever you’re putting inside it. This matters whether you’re dealing with rainwater collection, food-grade liquid or something more hazardous. Picking the right liner and maintaining it properly can reduce the need for repairs and avoid safety hazards.
Types Of Tank Liners
Tank liners come in a handful of different materials, each with its own qualities. The kind you choose depends on what you’re storing, the type of tank you have and even the weather conditions around you. Some liners are more flexible. Some are tougher. It’s not a one-size-fits-all situation.
Here are the most common types:
1. PVC Liners (Polyvinyl Chloride)
– Flexible, easy to install and budget-friendly
– Not ideal for high-heat areas or some chemicals
– Great for temporary or moderate-use storage
2. Polyethylene Liners
– Strong and durable, good at resisting chemicals
– Thickness can vary, which affects performance levels
– Suitable for long-term storage of both water and chemicals
3. Rubber Liners (EPDM or Butyl)
– Known for flexibility and weather resistance
– Can handle UV, temperature changes and some corrosive contents
– Often used in outdoor tanks or tanks storing fertilisers
One example: if you’re managing a water tank in a farming setup, a rubber liner like EPDM might be your best bet thanks to its resistance to temperature changes and general wear. On the other hand, inside a controlled warehouse storing filtered water, polyethylene is a convenient option because it’s tough and suits that kind of use.
Think of it like picking flooring for your house. Carpet, tiles and wood all work, but each is better for different rooms based on traffic, moisture and personal needs.
Choosing The Right Tank Liner
There isn’t one perfect liner that works for everyone. You’ve got to weigh a few things up before settling on one. Start by looking at your tank’s material. Concrete, steel and plastic all interact differently with liners. Then think about what you’re storing and for how long. Those two things really affect which type offers the best protection.
Some key points to look at include:
– Tank Material
A metal tank prone to rust might need a chemically resistant liner, while a plastic tank used for clean rainwater might not need anything heavy-duty.
– Contents Being Stored
Water and fuel will require very different liners. Some contents are harsh on materials, so it’s worth checking compatibility.
– Temperature and Sun Exposure
High heat can cause certain liners to wear faster. If the tank sits in full sun, you need a material that won’t crack or shrink.
– Flexibility
If the tank is going to be moved around or sits on an uneven surface, a more elastic liner can be helpful.
– Installation Environment
Indoor tanks and outdoor tanks call for slightly different priorities. UV damage doesn’t affect indoor liners nearly as much, but flexible liners may be better for changing outdoor conditions.
Taking time to match the liner with your actual needs goes a long way. It saves you headaches about chemical damage, short lifespans or costly replacements. It also keeps your storage system safer and more reliable over time.
Installation And Maintenance
Once you’ve selected the right liner, how it’s installed matters just as much. A poorly fitted liner can lead to early failure, which means wasted money and effort. The installation process starts with tank prep. The inside of the tank needs to be cleaned properly to remove dust, old residue or debris that could damage the liner. Any sharp edges or rough surfaces are smoothed or covered to avoid punctures.
After that, the liner is carefully lowered in and moulded to the inside walls and base. For larger tanks, multiple people may be needed to lift and position the material evenly. Once in place, it’s sealed using adhesives, welding tools or mechanical fasteners depending on the liner type and the tank’s structure.
To help the liner last longer, regular maintenance is key. Here are a few simple tips:
– Check for folds, air pockets or signs of lifting at the seams
– Inspect the liner for tears, cuts or abrasion
– Keep sharp tools and hard objects away from the liner’s surface
– Avoid sudden changes in pressure levels inside the tank
– Remove standing water or debris that might collect on the liner’s surface
– Schedule professional checks when unsure, especially after extreme weather
One example of smart maintenance: in tanks sitting outdoors through spring storms, strong winds might shift nearby branches or other debris into the tank. Making time for a quick post-storm inspection can reveal early damage before it turns into a bigger issue.
Common Issues And Solutions
Even the best liners can run into problems if conditions shift or inspections are skipped for too long. The most common issues turn up in older liners or where tanks face constant movement, high stress or changing temperatures.
Leaks are one of the most obvious and immediate problems. They’re usually caused by small tears or wear around seams. If caught early, these can sometimes be patched, but bigger damage usually calls for a replacement. Another common issue is liner shrinkage. This happens when liners are left in harsh sun too long or weren’t properly anchored during installation. It leads to the liner pulling away from the tank walls or cracking over time.
Other issues include:
– Wrinkles or bunching during installation, which weakens the liner over time
– Build-up of residue or chemicals if cleaning is skipped
– Seams coming loose under constant tank pressure
– Discolouration or chemical reaction from storing unapproved materials
If you notice any of these signs, it’s best to call a professional to assess the situation. Waiting can often turn a minor problem into major damage, especially with tanks used for sensitive or high-risk storage.
Keeping Your Tank Working Longer
Liners do more than stop leaks. They ease the pressure your tank endures each day and help it work longer without issues. When installed correctly and maintained regularly, liners help avoid sudden failures and emergency repairs. The trick is not to treat them as a one-time install. Regular checks and small corrections before anything breaks go a long way.
Know what you’re storing, pick the right liner to match, and make sure it’s put in correctly. Keep up with routine inspections and cleanings to stay on top of wear and tear.
Tanks face all kinds of physical and chemical stress over time. Liners give your setup the backup it needs to handle that pressure. With a bit of care, they extend the life of your system and keep what’s inside safer for longer.
Looking to make your tank system last longer and work better? Learn how the right tank liners can protect your setup and reduce future repair costs. ATM Tanks is ready to help you choose and maintain the best option for your needs.
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