The Complete Journey of Owning and Retiring a Polyethylene Storage Tank

When it comes to storage solutions for liquids, high density crosslinked polyethylene (XLPE) storage tanks are an excellent choice due to their durability, corrosion resistance, versatility and useful life. If you're considering investing in an XLPE storage tank, it’s crucial to understand the complete journey from ownership to retirement. 

This article will help walk you through the process, with insights drawn from best practices in the industry.

Choosing the Right Tank

Before you make a purchase, it's essential to determine your specific needs. Consider the following factors:

Purpose: What chemical will you be storing? Different liquids require different tank materials and construction. 

Capacity: Assess the volume of liquid you need to store now and possibly in the future. XLPE tanks are available in various sizes, from small to large capacities.

Location and Installation: Evaluate where the tank will be installed. Ensure that the location can accommodate the size and weight of the tank, and check local regulations regarding installation. 

Tip: Consult with professionals from Poly Processing to choose the best tank suited for your application.

Purchase

Once you’ve determined your needs, it’s time to purchase the tank. Here’s what to consider during the buying process:

Supplier Reputation: Just because a supplier can sell you a chemical storage tank, that doesn’t mean they’re the right choice for your facility. Find a partner you can trust. Poly Processing has been supplying chemical storage tanks to a variety of industries for over 50 years. Our tanks come with the industry leading warranty and after market support services.

Customization: Make sure your tank supplier can customize their solutions to fit your specific application needs. Poly Processing offers customization options, such as adding specific fittings and accessories to cater to your unique requirements

Related: Determining Proper Fitting Positions on Polyethylene Tanks

Installation

Proper installation is vital for the longevity of your polyethylene tank. Poly Processing’s Installation, Operation, and Maintenance Manual provides a great wealth of knowledge when it comes to installing a tank system properly. 

Follow these general steps to get started on the right path:

Preparation of Site: Ensure the ground is level and stable. An appropriate base is critical for supporting the weight of the tank.

Follow Manufacturer Guidelines: Adhere to the Poly Processing Installation, Operation, and Maintenance Manual for installation instructions to help avoid any mishaps.

Local Regulations: Ensure compliance with local laws and standards regarding the storage of your specific liquid.

Maintenance

To maximize the lifespan of your polyethylene tank, regular maintenance is necessary. Follow these guidelines to get the longest useful life possible out of your chemical storage tank:

Regular Inspections: Check the tank wall for signs of wear, leakage, or cracks. Early detection can prevent costly repairs or replacements.

Cleaning: Depending on the stored liquid, periodic cleaning may be required. Use appropriate cleaning methods to avoid damaging the tank.

Temperature Management: HDPE and HDXLPE can be susceptible to temperature extremes. Implement measures to protect your tank from excessive heat or cold.

Tank Retirement Planning

Eventually, every tank will reach the end of its operational life. Planning for retirement is essential. Follow these guidelines:

Assessment for Replacement: Before retiring the tank, assess its condition. If it's nearing the end of its usefulness, consider replacement options well in advance.

Decommissioning: Safely decommissioning the tank might involve cleaning and emptying it of any remaining liquid, following proper hazardous waste disposal regulations as applicable.

Get the Most Useful Life Out of Your Polyethylene Storage Tank

Owning and retiring a polyethylene storage tank involves thoughtful consideration at every stage—from selection to maintenance and eventual retirement. By adhering to best practices and seeking guidance from Poly Processing, you can ensure that your investment remains valuable and sustainable throughout its life cycle.

By understanding each step of this journey, you can make informed decisions about your polyethylene storage tank, enhancing both safety and efficiency in your operations. To learn more, explore additional resources on our website or consult with our experts for personalized advice.

Industry News

For over five decades, Poly Processing has been at the forefront of innovation in chemical storage tank design and manufacturing. Reinforcing our commitment to advancing high density crosslinked polyethylene (HDXLPE) tank technology, we are thrilled to unveil our latest update to our  vertical storage tank solutions: the 15,500-gallon IMFO tank, the 15,000-gallon Sloped Bottom IMFO tank, and the 15,500-gallon Vertical tank, are all available in specific gravities up to 2.2 design.

These large innovative HDXLPE tanks are designed for exceptional durability, reliable performance, and an extended lifespan across a variety of applications. To enhance protection and prolong service life in oxidative environments, such as those involving sodium hypochlorite, they can be manufactured with our industry-leading OR-1000 engineered resin system, known for its remarkable resistance to oxidative chemicals.

These tanks represent the best engineering and design in the tank manufacturing industry, and they are covered under PPC’s industry-leading warranty.

At Poly Processing, we’re focused on delivering high-quality, forward-thinking solutions to meet the evolving demands of the chemical storage industry.