Video: Poly Chemical Storage Tank Drop Tests

We're always working to improve the strength and longevity of our polyethylene tank solutions.  In a measure to see just how much force a storage tank could stand up to, we performed a series of tests.  Originally these tests were designed as part of the NFPA (National Fire Protection Association) testing protocol for designing plastic gas tanks.  You're probably familiar with the small red ones used to store lawn mower gas. 

We performed a drop test on a variety of storage tanks built using different materials.  The 2,800 gallon vertical test tanks were filled with over 28,000 pounds of water and raised to a height of 18 feet.  We then dropped each tank.  As you can see, the fiberglass reinforced plastic (FRP) tank catastrophically fails.  The linear polyethylene tank suffers the same fate.  The cross-linked polyethelene tank, however, survives the impact due to the superior strength of construction. 

Take a look at the video below to see the test for yourself.  Also, be on the lookout for our post later this week on tank pressurization tests.

Or, download the complete report from the drop test by clicking the button below.