Have you been considering a conical bottom storage tank for your operation but aren’t quite sure if it’s the right choice? We get it, it’s a big investment and you want to make the right call. Conical chemical storage tanks seem like a simple enough solution, but they aren’t for everyone. Determine the best chemical storage tanks that match your needs before signing on the dotted line for a new tank; we've got you covered with some alternate possibilities as well. Alright, ready to find out if conical chemical storage tanks are right for you? Let’s dive in.
What Are Conical Chemical Storage Tanks?
Conical chemical storage tanks, also known as cone bottom tanks. They are cylindrical jars with a sloped bottom that funnels down to a base exit. The slanted shape provides for easy cleaning and perfect drainage. Because there are no corners or edges where residue can accumulate, these tanks are suitable for holding and dispensing a range of chemicals.
When determining whether conical chemical storage tanks meet your needs, consider the following:
- Do you need a complete discharge of the stored product? The conical shape ensures total drainage and evacuation. This is useful when switching between incompatible chemicals.
- Are you storing and dispensing hazardous or corrosive chemicals? The smooth surfaces and ability to fully drain and clean cone bottom tanks make them suitable and safe for harsh chemicals. The outlet valve at the bottom also allows for easy dispensing.
- Do you want flexible and adaptable storage? Conical chemical storage tanks come in a range of sizes for small or large volumes. Depending on your requirements, they manufacture stainless steel, carbon steel, or other alloys. You can start with a smaller tank and size up as required.
- Are frequent cleaning and maintenance important? The sloped bottom and outlet valve provide easy access for cleaning and repairs. Some conical tanks also have manways, inspection hatches, and CIP systems available for effective cleaning.
If you answered yes to these questions, conical chemical storage tanks are an excellent choice for safely and efficiently storing and dispensing your chemicals. Their versatile and adaptable design is suitable for a variety of industrial uses and applications.
Advantages of Conical Bottom Tanks for Chemical Storage
Conical bottom tanks offer some key advantages for chemical storage. Their shape alone provides more usable space since the walls slope inward, giving you more volume at the bottom where you need it most.
These chemical storage tanks' conical design also makes mixing and circulation much more efficient. The walls funnel everything back to the center, eliminating the possibility of things becoming caught in corners or edges.
Also, the open space inside conical tanks provides plenty of room for workers and equipment to maneuver. Inspections, cleaning, and repairs are able to complete rapidly because they do not need working around tight corners or access ports.
If maximizing usable space, optimizing mixing, ensuring complete discharge, simplifying maintenance, and safely containing chemicals are important to your operation, conical bottom tanks could be the ideal solution. Their innovative yet practical design has made them a staple of industrial chemical storage for good reason.
When Conical Chemical Storage Tanks Are Ideal
Conical bottom storage tanks, with their distinctive cone-shaped base, are ideal for storing certain chemicals. Here are some situations where conical tanks shine:
Corrosive Chemicals
The sloped bottom of a conical tank makes it easier to fully drain corrosive chemicals like acids, alkalis, and solvents. Their shape prevents puddling and allows for more complete drainage, reducing corrosion damage. The smooth interior surface also minimizes places for chemicals to collect and react.
Hazardous Waste
Conical tanks are used to collect and dispose of hazardous chemical waste and byproducts. Their complete draining capabilities ensure that hazardous waste materials are removed from the tank. They can also outfit with emission control technology to trap and neutralize hazardous gasses.
Frequent Agitation
If you need to regularly agitate the chemicals in your storage tank, a conical bottom tank is a smart choice. Their sloped base is ideal for mounting mechanical or hydraulic agitators that can thoroughly mix the tank contents. The agitators can reach more of the tank bottom due to its tapered design.
While conical tanks have many advantages for certain applications, they may not suit every chemical storage need. For less corrosive or viscous materials, a flat-bottom tank can work just as well at a lower cost. But when you need specialized handling or containment, conical storage tanks are an ideal solution.
When Alternative Chemical Storage Tanks May Be Better
Conical chemical storage tanks can be ideal for storing certain chemicals, but they may not suit every application. There are a few situations where alternative storage tank designs could be better options.
When chemicals require heating or cooling
Conical bottom tanks typically lack insulation and temperature control options that would be needed for temperature-sensitive chemicals. Double-wall tanks, tanks with insulation jackets, or tanks specifically designed for heating and cooling may be better choices.
When maximum storage volume is a priority
Conical bottom tanks taper to a point at the bottom, so some storage volume is sacrificed for the cone shape. Cylindrical tanks with flat bottoms maximize the storage capacity for the tank’s footprint. If storage volume is most important, a flat-bottom cylindrical tank is probably your best bet.
When chemicals need to be mixed or agitated
The pointed bottom of a conical tank can make mixing and agitation difficult. Tanks with dished or flat bottoms provide more room for mixers and agitators. Some flat-bottom tanks even have built-in mixers. Conical chemical storage tanks can still work for mixing and agitation but may require special mixers designed for conical shapes.
When tank access and cleaning are frequent or difficult
The narrow bottom opening of a conical tank can make accessing and cleaning the tank interior challenging. Tanks with larger manways, hatches, and flush bottoms provide much easier access for cleaning and maintenance. If your application requires frequent tank entry or difficult tank cleaning, a conical bottom tank may not be the most practical choice.
When strict sanitation and sterility are required
The multiple welds and crevices in a conical tank provide more opportunities for bacterial growth and contamination. Tanks with minimum internal structural elements like seamless, flush-bottom tanks may be better for high-purity or sanitary applications. Electropolishing the tank interior can also help, but may still not match a seamless tank design.
While conical bottom tanks work well for simple storage of many chemicals, certain applications may benefit more from alternative tank designs that better meet specific needs like temperature control, maximum volume, mixing, access, or sanitation. Considering how the tank will be used can help determine if a conical bottom tank is right for your needs or if another design would function better.
Read Also: All You Should Know About Different Types of Chemical Storage Tanks.
How to Properly Use and Maintain Conical Chemical Storage Tanks
To get the most out of your conical chemical storage tanks, proper use and maintenance are key. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
Inspect Regularly
Conduct routine inspections of your conical tanks, checking for any signs of damage or leaks. Look for dents, cracks, or corrosion and repair or replace parts as needed. Check that all valves, gages, and seals are in working order. It’s best to do inspections on a monthly or quarterly basis, depending on how often you use the tanks. Preventative maintenance will help avoid costly repairs down the road.
Clean Thoroughly
Over time, chemical residue and sediment can build up inside chemical storage tanks conical. Have them professionally cleaned periodically using approved cleaning solutions. Cleaning will remove any built-up contaminants and help your tanks function properly. How often cleaning is needed depends on what chemicals you’re storing, but a good rule of thumb is every 3-5 years.
Follow Proper Filling Procedures
When filling conical tanks, go slowly to avoid splashing and spills. Never overfill tanks, and leave adequate ullage or headspace at the top for expansion. Check that all valves are securely closed before filling. For hazardous chemicals, follow strict protocols for safely filling and handling to prevent risks to health, safety, and the environment.
Consider a Secondary Containment System
For added protection against leaks and spills, use a secondary containment system like a concrete dike or steel containment wall around your conical tanks. This helps contain any released chemicals and prevents them from entering the surrounding area.
By properly inspecting, cleaning, and filling your conical chemical storage tanks and using secondary containment, you can feel confident in safely and effectively storing chemicals for your operations. Be sure to also follow all regulations for handling and containing the specific chemicals you use.
EndNote,
Conical chemical storage tanks can be a reliable solution for many industries. By considering factors like chemical compatibility, storage capacity, and space requirements, you can determine if they meet your specific needs.
Choose wisely for efficient and safe chemical storage tanks. Don't let your chemical storage needs be a conundrum! Choose a reliable and compatible storage tank to ensure the long-term integrity and safety of your chemical storage system. Trust reputable manufacturers like Arvind Anticor to provide the best solutions for your chemical storage applications.
