Installation & Receiving Instructions for Polyethylene Tanks

Proper installation and careful handling will ensure your polyethylene tanks perform reliably and safely for years. Please follow these clear guidelines to avoid damage, ensure safety, and maintain warranty coverage.

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Receiving & Inspection

1. Inspect Immediately Upon Delivery:
   Carefully inspect your tank(s) upon arrival. If you notice any damage from shipping or manufacturing defects, immediately note this on the delivery driver’s Bill of Lading and your Packing List.

 

Unloading Procedures

1. Safe Tank Unloading:

   • Avoid Sharp Objects: Protect your polyethylene tank during unloading by avoiding sharp or rough objects.

   • Forklift Precautions: Even skilled forklift operators should handle tanks cautiously to prevent punctures.

   • Do Not Roll Tanks on Fittings: Never roll or place the tank on its fittings.

   • Use Proper Lifting Equipment: Larger tanks should be removed using suitable lifting equipment, like cranes. Refer to OSHA regulations (29 CFR 1910.178–1910.189) for lifting and hoisting standards.

   • Clear Unloading Area: Keep unloading areas free from rocks, debris, or any potentially damaging materials.

 

Tank Placement & Foundations

1. Support the Tank Base Fully and Evenly:

   • For tanks with a base load capacity of 800 lbs or less, a stable bed of sand, fine soil, or pea gravel is sufficient (assuming no seismic or wind factors).

   • Tanks exceeding an 800 lb base load require a reinforced concrete pad.

   • When using tank stands, mount and bolt them securely onto a concrete base to prevent movement.

2. Accessible Installation Location:
   Position your tank in an area that's easy to access for maintenance, inspection, and removal.

 

Chemical Storage Tank Precautions

1. Hydro Test Before Chemical Storage:
   Conduct a leak test by filling the tank with water for at least 5 hours before using it to store chemicals. This ensures there are no leaks from loose fittings or shipping damage.

2. Fitting Tightening Guidelines:
   Plastic bulkhead fittings should be hand-tightened only, plus a maximum additional quarter-turn. Excessive tightening may cause leaks. If leakage occurs, inspect the gasket and fitting for debris, and reseat carefully.

3. Supporting Rectangular Tanks:
   Tanks 18 inches or taller require side supports. Tanks storing liquids with high specific gravity or elevated temperatures may require additional side support regardless of height.

4. Do Not Mount Heavy Equipment on Tanks:
   Avoid mounting heavy items onto tank walls. Ensure all piping and valves are independently supported to avoid unnecessary strain on fittings.

5. Use Expansion Joints:
   Incorporate expansion joints in piping systems to prevent damage caused by natural expansion or contraction of tanks and pipes.

6. Atmospheric Use Only:
   Polyethylene tanks are designed solely for atmospheric chemical storage. They are not suitable for vacuum or pressurized applications.

7. Immersion Heater Safety:
   Immersion heaters must maintain a minimum clearance of 18 inches from tank walls. Ensure good liquid circulation for proper heat dispersion.

8. Chemical Compatibility Check:
   Verify tank, fitting, and gasket compatibility with your chemical application. Always confirm chemical compatibility information with your chemical supplier. Note: We cannot warranty or accept responsibility for chemical compatibility information. This verification is your responsibility.

9. Impact Protection:
   Protect polyethylene tanks from impacts, especially at temperatures below 40°F to avoid brittleness and damage.

 

Safety Warnings & Tank Entry

1. Confined Space Warning:
   Never enter tanks alone. Follow all OSHA guidelines for confined-space entry procedures.

2. Tank Sizes & Expansion Notice:
   Listed tank capacities and molded calibrations are approximate. Tanks naturally expand and contract based on contents, temperature, and specific gravity.

3. Chemical Safety Warning:
   Chemicals are inherently hazardous. Using correctly designed tanks, fittings, pipes, and valves helps mitigate risks significantly.

 

Tank Venting & MSDS

1. Proper Venting Required:
   Polyethylene tanks must be properly vented, as they’re not designed for vacuum or pressure. The vent size should match the largest inlet/outlet size. Use extra caution when handling chemical fumes, which can be corrosive and dangerous.

2. Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS):
   Obtain and review MSDS sheets from your chemical supplier. These contain critical information for safe tank design and operation.

 

Surface Appearance & Quality

1. Normal Surface Characteristics:
   Polyethylene tanks, due to rotational molding, commonly have minor surface imperfections like bumps or dents. These do not affect structural integrity.

 

Following these guidelines ensures safe, efficient, and long-lasting performance from your polyethylene tanks. For further questions or support, please contact our team directly.