Stainless steel storage tanks are used in the medical industry as well as for industrial chemical processing, film processing, food storage and preparation and fuel storage, among other things. Non-stainless steel and alloy tanks are suitable for many of the same applications, but stainless steel tanks are more corrosion resistant. A stainless steel tank also tends to be easier to clean and will not absorb odor.
The type of metal is not the only difference between various tanks. Here is a list of the various stainless steel tank compositions manufactured by stainless steel tank fabricators:
1. Welded sheet metal stainless tanks
2. Welded metal plate stainless tanks
3. Stainless tanks formed in deep-drawing dies
Get the right stainless steel tank for the job
With such a wide variety of uses, there are many shapes, sizes and qualities of stainless steel storage tanks. Consider the internal volumes and wall thicknesses of various stainless tanks. Don't buy an expensive, think walled, metal plate tank when a thinner, lighter sheet metal tank will work. Also, most stainless tanks are single-wall; but if you have a pressure application, then buy a double-wall stainless steel tank. The best tanks for extreme temperatures or salty liquids are steel-titanium alloys. Another aspect to consider is what pipes and tubes should be built into your stainless steel tank.
Locate the right stainless steel tank manufacturers and retailers
Once you know what kind of stainless steel tank will best fit your application, find the best source before you buy.
Shop for used stainless steel tanks if you are on a budget
Because of the anti-corrosive properties of stainless steel, used stainless tanks are a good way to save money. Buying a used stainless tank over a new one is also a way to reduce waste and help save the environment.
- Besides being the gold standard against corrosion, a titanium alloy stainless steel tank is also lighter and stronger than a steel-only tank.
- If you are looking to buy a very large tank, consider putting it underground.
- Generally, vertical stainless steel tanks have one access port at the bottom, while horizontal tanks have one at the top and one at the bottom.
