Things To Consider When Choosing an Aboveground Storage Tank
By Sam Horstmann
An aboveground storage tank (AST) is a container placed above ground level that is essential for the safe and efficient storage of various liquids such as water, chemicals and fuel. This article will highlight some of the different types of aboveground storage tanks, general industry applications, and carwash industry applications, as well as a guide for choosing the right aboveground storage tank for your needs.
Aboveground storage tanks are typically made of carbon steel, stainless steel, polyethylene, or fiberglass-reinforced plastic (FRP). They come in either vertical or horizontal orientation and can be anywhere from five gallons to millions of gallons.
Given the extreme variety of aboveground storage tanks, they can be used across various industries for thousands of different applications. Some of the most common applications are:
Fireguard Tanks: These tanks feature lightweight concrete insulation that provides superior fire resistance and thermal protection. They are ideal for industrial storage where fire risks are prevalent and offer a high level of safety and reliability.
Flameshield Tanks: These tanks have double walls of steel, ensuring robust containment and leak prevention.
Duel compartmentalized designs allow for the safe storage of multiple liquids in one tank, reducing the risk of cross-contamination. These are ideal for any applications involving fuel distribution and industrial processing.
Single-Wall Tanks: These tanks are constructed with a single wall of carbon and meet UL142 design requirements and standards for storing flammable and combustible materials.
Water Tanks: These tanks are specially designed for potable and non-potable water storage with designs that ensure compliance with health and safety applications. They can be manufactured from steel, polyethylene, or fibreglass
Chemical storage tanks: These tanks, made of steel, polyethylene, or fibreglass, are ideal for storing bulk quantities of corrosive and non-corrosive chemicals.
Several factors should be considered when deciding the right type of above ground storage tank:
- What product will be stored in the tank?
- Does the tank need to maintain any pressure?
- What is the risk if the tank leaks?
- Are there any governmental regulations to consider for the desired applications?
- How many years will the tank be in service?
A final note: When you are choosing an aboveground storage tank for your needs, it is essential that you partner with a manufacturer you trust. Mass Tank has provided customers in the carwash industry with aboveground storage tank solutions that separate waste oil and water, store chemical or cleaning solutions, and water storage systems.
Sam Horstmann is the current vice president of operations at Mass Tank. He has been in the tank industry for over 10 years. His current role enables him to focus on business development, including sales and working with the marketing team to develop go-to-market solutions. In addition, he enjoys driving operational efficiency within the organization and developing new relationships with potential customers. His favourite kind of tank is a UL 2085 Fireguard! If you would like to contact Mass Tank, visit www.masstank.com for more information.
