Stainless Steel Bolted Tanks

Overview

Stainless steel bolted tanks are engineered to provide robust, hygienic, and long-lasting storage solutions for water and various liquids. These tanks are favored for their excellent corrosion resistance, structural strength, and modularity, making them ideal for a wide range of applications, including potable water storage, industrial processes, and chemical storage.

Technical and Engineering Details

1. Material Specifications

   • Stainless Steel Grade: Typically constructed from SS304 or SS316, known for their high resistance to corrosion and chemical attack. SS316 is particularly used in environments with higher salinity or chemical exposure due to its enhanced resistance.
   • Panel Thickness: Stainless steel panels generally range in thickness from 2mm to 6mm, depending on the tank size and application requirements.

2. Panel Design and Manufacturing

   • Precision Fabrication: Panels are manufactured using advanced laser cutting and automated welding techniques to ensure precision, consistency, and high quality.
   • Modular Construction: The panels are designed to be bolted together, allowing for flexibility in size and capacity. The modular nature facilitates transportation and on-site assembly, especially in locations with limited access.

3. Structural Components

   • Support Framework: The tanks are supported by a combination of internal and external structural elements, including stainless steel beams, columns, and braces. These components provide additional rigidity and stability.
   • Base Structure: A reinforced concrete foundation or a steel base frame is typically used to support the tank. The base is designed to bear the full weight of the tank when filled, accounting for static and dynamic loads.

4. Jointing System

   • Bolted Assembly: Panels are connected using high-strength stainless steel bolts, nuts, and washers. Bolts are typically made from the same grade of stainless steel as the panels to prevent galvanic corrosion.
   • Gasket Sealing: EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer) or silicone gaskets are used at the joints to ensure a watertight seal. These gaskets are chosen for their excellent resistance to water, weathering, and a wide range of chemicals.

5. Coatings and Finishes

   • Surface Finish: Panels often have a brushed or polished finish to enhance their corrosion resistance and aesthetic appeal. The surface finish also makes cleaning easier, maintaining high hygiene standards.
   • Passivation: Stainless steel panels undergo a passivation process to remove surface contaminants and enhance their natural corrosion resistance.

6. Design Standards and Compliance

   • BS EN 10088: Panels and structural components are manufactured to comply with the BS EN 10088 standard for stainless steel, ensuring material quality and performance.
   • ASME and API Standards: Depending on the application, tanks can be designed to meet ASME (American Society of Mechanical Engineers) and API (American Petroleum Institute) standards for pressure vessels and storage tanks.
   • ISO 9001: Manufacturing processes adhere to ISO 9001 quality management standards, ensuring consistent quality and reliability.

7. Hydrostatic Testing

   • Leak Testing: Post-assembly, tanks undergo hydrostatic testing where they are filled with water and monitored for leaks and structural integrity over a specified period. This ensures compliance with design specifications and safety standards.

8. Optional Features and Accessories

   • Manholes and Access Hatches: Provides access for inspection, cleaning, and maintenance. Manholes are designed with lockable covers for security.
   • Ladders and Handrails: Stainless steel internal and external ladders and handrails ensure safe access for maintenance personnel.
   • Roof Structures: Tanks can be fitted with flat or pitched roofs, depending on the application. Roofs are designed to prevent contamination and provide additional structural integrity.
   • Insulation: Thermal insulation can be added to control the temperature of the stored liquid, especially important in environments with extreme temperatures.
   • Overflow and Drainage Systems: Equipped with overflow pipes to manage excess liquid and drainage systems for easy cleaning and maintenance.

Installation Process

1. Site Preparation

   • Foundation: Prepare a stable and level reinforced concrete base or steel frame foundation designed to support the tank’s weight. Consider soil bearing capacity, seismic activity, and site-specific conditions in the foundation design.

2. Panel Assembly

   • Base Panels: Install and secure base panels to the foundation, ensuring accurate alignment.
   • Side Panels: Sequentially bolt the side panels, using gaskets to ensure watertight joints. Tighten bolts to specified torque values to maintain joint integrity.
   • Bracing and Reinforcement: Install internal and external bracing and reinforcement to enhance structural stability.

3. Roof and Accessories

   • Roof Panels: Assemble and secure the roof panels, ensuring proper sealing to prevent contamination.
   • Ladders and Manholes: Install access ladders and manholes as per design specifications.

4. Inspection and Testing

   • Visual Inspection: Conduct a thorough visual inspection of all joints, gaskets, and structural components.
   • Hydrostatic Testing: Fill the tank with water and monitor for leaks or structural issues over a specified period, ensuring compliance with design standards.

Maintenance and Longevity

• Regular Inspections: Conduct periodic inspections to check for signs of corrosion, gasket wear, and structural integrity.
• Cleaning: Schedule routine cleaning to maintain hygiene and water quality. Stainless steel surfaces are easy to clean, reducing maintenance efforts.
• Component Replacement: Replace any damaged panels, gaskets, or accessories promptly to prevent further issues and ensure the tank's longevity.

Conclusion

Stainless steel bolted tanks from Global Tankcom Sdn Bhd offer a durable, hygienic, and flexible solution for a wide range of liquid storage needs. With their superior corrosion resistance, structural strength, and ease of maintenance, these tanks are ideal for industrial, commercial, and municipal applications. Trust Global Tankcom Sdn Bhd to deliver high-quality tanks engineered to meet your specific requirements, ensuring long-term performance and reliability.