Tips for Keeping FRP Tank Contents Secure and Accessible

Tips for Keeping FRP Tank Contents Secure and Accessible

In industries such as wastewater treatment, paper and pulp manufacturing, oil and gas, and chemical processing, fiberglass reinforced plastic (FRP) tanks are a staple due to their impressive strength and resistance to corrosion. These qualities make FRP tanks a reliable investment with a long service life, which is exactly what you want from your capital equipment.

If it has been a while since you last purchased an FRP tank, here’s a comprehensive guide to the materials and construction methods involved.

For more information, please visit our website FRP Fiber Flange.

Core Components of FRP Tanks

Glass Fibers

Glass fibers are crucial in providing the high tensile strength that finished FRP tanks and structures need. Depending on the specific application, various types of glass fibers are used:

• E glass: Known for its electrical resistance, commonly utilized in FRP applications.
• ECR glass: Offers a blend of strength, electrical resistance, and corrosion resistance.
• C glass: Primarily used for its corrosion resistance in acidic conditions.

These fibers, also known as glass roving, come in multiple forms:

• Woven fiber cloth, which varies in thickness and weight, measured in ounces per square yard.
• Chopped-strand mat made from roving and held by a thin resin layer, measured in ounces per square foot.
• Gun roving: Continuous strands used in spray applications via a chopping gun.
• Filament winding roving, available in different weights, designed for specific applications.

Resins

Resins are critical for providing corrosion resistance and distributing loads throughout the glass fibers in the FRP matrix. The choice of resin depends on the contents of the tank and its intended use. Common resins include:

• Bisphenol epoxy vinyl ester, known for its strength and temperature resilience.
• Epoxy novolac vinyl ester, suitable for acidic solvents.
• Bisphenol fumarate polyesters, effective in high-temperature applications over 300 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Bromated polyester and vinyl ester resins, which offer fire-resistant properties.
• Terephthalic and isophthalic polyester resins, used for lower temperature applications and less aggressive pH environments.

Fabricators can also use resin additives to control curing and optimize the tank for specific conditions. These additives may include:

• Promotors to adjust curing characteristics, such as drying speed.
• Initiators/catalysts to start the resin gelling process.
• Accelerators to speed up curing.
• Inhibitors to extend gel time.
• Synergists for fire retardancy, such as antimony oxides.
• UV absorbers to protect tanks from sun damage.
• Color pigments for aesthetic or functional purposes.

Construction Techniques

Hand Lay-Up

In the hand lay-up process, layers of woven fiber are placed on a mold, or chopped fiber is sprayed onto it. Each layer is laminated with resin, and air bubbles are rolled out to avoid voids. This method allows for the fabrication of large tanks either as a single unit or in panels assembled later.

For more details, check out FRP Round Pipe.

Filament Winding

Filament winding involves winding glass roving strands around a rotating spindle at varying angles to optimize hoop and axial strength. The method depends on the application and the diameter is determined by the spindle size. A thin surface veil cloth of C glass fibers can be added for extra corrosion and UV resistance.

Accessories and Additional Features

Depending on the application, FRP tanks can be equipped with various accessories, such as:

• Manways or access ports for tank entry or cleaning.
• Inlets, outlets, and couplings for pipes.
• Ports for gauges and instrumentation.
• Flanges and tie-down lugs.
• Vents and covers.
• Drains, siphons, and weir plates.
• Internal mixing equipment.
• Heating and cooling coils.
• Nozzles and supports.
• Ladders, handrails, and walkways.

Understanding Application Specifics

Your fabricator will review your specifications and application details, suggesting alternatives to balance cost and longevity. Important considerations include:

• Temperature conditions, both internal and external.
• Pressure and hydrostatic loads.
• Environmental conditions such as UV exposure.
• Chemical composition and concentration of tank contents.
• pH levels and expected changes.
• Process descriptions, including any mixing or agitation.
• Fire retardancy requirements.

Effective communication with your FRP fabricator is essential. Provide them with detailed information to help them tailor the tank to your unique requirements. Contact us to discuss your new tank needs today!

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