Environmental stress cracking occurs when microscopic cracks form in polyethylene tanks as a result of storing aggressive chemicals. Over time, these imperceptible cracks combine to form larger cracks, which can lead to leaks or even tank failure. If cracks occur, it’s recommended that you replace the polyethylene tank.

When designing your chemical storage tank, it’s vital to consider the chemical you’re storing before any other factor. This information allows the manufacturer to determine what material to use, what types of fittings and accessories are needed, and whether or not the tank needs an antioxidant system or other special considerations.

There’s nothing more important than safely storing and handling hazardous chemicals. It’s your top priority to prevent leaks and spills of dangerous materials that can cause harm to employees, the general public, and property.

For nearly 50 years, Poly Processing has been the industry leader in chemical storage tank manufacturing. But until now, our customers were limited to tanks that were 13,650 gallons and that was from a single manufacturing facility. 

Whether you’re an engineer writing a spec for a chemical storage system, or an end-user who is looking for the best way to store corrosive chemicals, there are multiple factors that go into creating a safe storage system. Cost might be your first consideration, but there is more to consider than the initial price of the tank, its fittings and accessories, delivery, and installation.

If you aren’t completely draining your chemical storage tanks, then you aren’t properly storing chemicals. Regular tank maintenance and cleaning schedules must include a full drain of your chemical tanks. Otherwise, you risk contaminating new batches.

When it comes to choosing a chemical storage solution, you won’t find a more aesthetic option than stainless steel tanks. Steel tanks are popular in breweries and other applications where they’re on public display. The tanks look shiny and clean, and they contribute to the interior design of the space. Steel tanks also have a reputation for being one of the most reliable chemical storage systems on the market.

Purchasing a high-quality chemical storage tank is a significant investment for your company, and choosing the right tank for your needs isn’t always an easy decision. If you’re deciding between a fiberglass reinforced plastic (FRP) tank and polyethylene tank, be sure you understand the differences between them and know what to expect in terms of cost, maintenance, service, and protection.

Cross-linked polyethylene tanks withstand greater pressure, in part because of the rotational molding manufacturing process. Rotational molding is by far the best process to create a cross-linked polyethylene chemical storage tank.

With some chemicals, it’s critical to keep them cool because they will lose their concentration when they heat up. Sodium Hypochlorite is a prime example of that. As it heats up, it starts to lose its strength, and it begins to release gas and free radicals. Its strength can diminish dramatically with heat and UV.

So it’s important to keep the chemical as cool as possible from the moment it arrives at your facility. Other chemicals are similar—if they become too warm, they won’t perform as well as you need them to.