Cone-bottom tanks are generally used in process applications where total drainage of the tank is required. Typical applications would include the storage of heavy materials and materials prone to sludging, which are difficult to drain out of upright tanks.
Cone-bottom tanks are also ideal for dry materials, such as grains or cattle feed as they can be 100% drained out of the tank with a flange or slidegate at the bottom of the tank. In addition, materials that require separation can be handled with a decant fitting to remove the liquid from the solids.
Let’s take a look at some key considerations for evaluating cone-bottom tank storage solutions — and attractive alternatives.
The support structure usually consists of an epoxy coated carbon steel stand and basket that supports the tank. The basket must fit properly around the tank with no large gaps. The basket must also be strong enough to support the weight of the materials under storage. Reinforced support or a full pan bottom support may be required for heavier materials or storage applications that include elevated temperatures.
In addition to the epoxy coated carbon steel, other basket and support materials such as stainless steel, are available.
The slope of the tank impacts the rate and efficiency at which stored material can exit the tank. The materials stored and the size of the tank will dictate the slope of the tank. Dry and liquid materials require less slope, while heavy, sludgy materials require a steeper tank slope design to facilitate ease of draining.
Tank slopes of 30, 45, and 60 degrees, and a variety of tank sizes are available. Please refer to our cone-bottom tank specifications page for more information.
While cone-bottom tanks have been the industry standard in full-drain solutions for decades, they may not suit every need in every storage application. For example, cone-bottom tanks require plenty of overhead clearance to make room for the cone — as much as twenty feet or more depending on the tank being installed. They also often need additional maintenance such as repainting and recoating.
Cone-bottom tanks require a basket and a stand, adding cost and equipment to your system. If your operation is in an earthquake zone, the basket and stand will need to be seismically rated, adding bulk and expense.
Traditional tank maintenance can be a challenge with many chemicals — so Poly Processing has designed and engineered a unique sloped bottom tank system that greatly minimizes the hazards associated with traditional vertical tank maintenance.
With Poly Processing’s Sloped Bottom Integrally Molded Flanged Outlet tank, or IMFO® system, the flange is molded while the tank is processing, making it a stress-free part of the tank. The floor of the tank is sloped towards the IMFO giving you the greatest possible full drain system in a vertical tank design.
The Sloped Bottom IMFO® system is also much more cost effective than a cone bottom tank. It delivers full tank discharge without the need for a steel tank stand and basket. This eliminates maintenance work on the basket and stand, therefore reducing upfront costs and tank operating costs.
For more information about cone-bottom and slope-bottom IMFO tanks, please refer to the technical specifications document, or contact a Poly Processing storage tank system specialist.