Stainless steel is an excellent option material for the fabrication of tanks because it is highly resistant to corrosion – and industries as diverse as cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, food and beverage, and chemical processing utilize stainless steel tanks to safely and efficiently store water, alcohol, gases, and even acid. Stainless steel tanks will not degrade, and contents will remain uncontaminated, regardless of the size, shape, or configuration needed for the application.
Stainless Steel Tanks – Alloy Formations
With several kinds of stainless steel available on the market, the alloy formation often determines which is optimal for a company’s storage tank requirements.
Stainless steel 304 and 304L:These types of stainless steel provide an affordable and corrosion-resistant option for most industries. 304 typically consists of 18-20% chromium and 8-12% nickel. 304L composition is similar but offers a lower carbon content to avoid sensitization. Reducing chromium carbide maximizes corrosion resistance for applications requiring high heat.
Stainless steel 316 and 316L: Stainless steel 316 delivers more resistance to corrosion than 304 because it also includes molybdenum. 316 is often utilized for chemical and marine storage applications. The lower carbon version of grade 316, 316L, protects against sensitization in high-temperature applications.
Duplex stainless steel: Duplex stainless steel maintains resistance to corrosion but also delivers enhanced mechanical strength. The alloy is comprised of 20-28% chromium, 5-8% nickel, and 2-5% molybdenum, making it especially resistant to cracking from stress corrosion. Duplex stainless steel often represents a less expensive option for companies due to its lower nickel content, providing strong, thinner sheets.
Variations of Stainless Steel Tanks
Once the application-appropriate stainless steel alloy has been identified, the tank type that delivers the desired functionality can be chosen.
Single-walled tanks:Most single-walled tanks offer simple, cylindrical construction and can behorizontal or vertical. These storage tanks provide high-level corrosion resistance to internal and external corrosive agents. They often use some form of concrete structure as a secondary containment method.
Double-walled tanks: These tanks feature a secondary wall built around the primary container to avoid any fluid leakage. Some varieties may provide additional insulation as well, meant to protect heat transfer from changes in external temperatures. Double-walled tanks are appropriate for EPA compliance and petrochemical applications.
Stainless steel clad tanks:Thick stainless steel tanks can be expensive, so single- or double-side cladding with thin stainless steel sheets provides additional corrosion resistance to the tank. If you need a stainless steel tank at a lower price, check out quality used and refabricated stainless steel tankshere.
Process tanks:These tanks process stored substances by dissolving, mixing, or agitating them with paddles or mixing heads. Some process tanks offer specialized and versatile features such as insulation, dual walls or monitoring devices for temperatures or levels.
Jacketed tanks:Jacketed steel tanks are utilized alongside cooling towers or boilers. They can cool or heat tank contents as required without mixing with them, allowing fluids to pass through two plates of stainless steel.
Compressed and high-pressure air tanks:Corrosion resistance makes stainless steel appropriate for compressed air tanks exposed to air and moisture. The substantial pressure in these tanks requires exceptional strength and durability. High-pressure applications utilize stainless steel tanks to ensure optimal strength and safeguard operations.
Call Zwirner Equipment Company for Your Stainless Steel Equipment Needs
Zwirner Equipment Company offers over three decades of experience. Our 9-acre facility houses new and used machinery, equipment, and parts servicing any industry requiring sanitary-grade stainless steel equipment. We are proud to provide stainless steel tanks and equipment to companies operating food processing, dairy, brewing, beverage, pharmaceutical, and HVAC facilities. Zwirner Equipment Company provides quality equipment, expert knowledge, service and maintenance services, and transportation to and from your site. We can even help you to sell or trade your current equipment. Click to learn more or browse our inventory. Don’t see what you need? Call us today!
