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July/Aug 2024

The Benefits of Bolted Tanks

Bolted storage tanks stand out for several key advantages that make them a preferred choice for dry bulk material storage:

Flexibility in Design and Size

One of the hallmarks of bolted tanks is their modular design. The individual steel panels are bolted together on-site, allowing for a high degree of customization in terms of diameter, height, and overall storage capacity. This flexibility enables tank buyers to select the precise dimensions needed to fit their available footprint and storage requirements. Bolted tanks can range from smaller, low-profile models to towering structures reaching over 100 feet in height.

Rapid Installation

Compared to traditional field-welded or concrete tanks, bolted tanks have a major advantage when it comes to installation time. The modular components can be quickly assembled on-site, often in a matter of days or weeks rather than months. This streamlined process minimizes disruption to ongoing operations and gets the storage solution up and running faster.

Durable and Long-Lasting

The steel components used in bolted tank construction are engineered for exceptional strength and longevity. High-quality coatings and corrosion-resistant materials ensure the tanks can withstand harsh environments, heavy loads, and exposure to the elements over many years of service. Many bolted tank installations have lifespans of 30 years or more with proper maintenance.

Cost-Effective

Bolted tanks offer a compelling value proposition, with lower overall capital costs compared to field-welded or concrete alternatives. The standardized, modular design and rapid on-site assembly process translate to significant savings. Additionally, the durability and low-maintenance requirements of bolted tanks can lead to lower operating costs over the long term.

Adaptable and Expandable

If a facility's storage needs change over time, bolted tanks can be easily expanded by adding extra ring sections. This modular flexibility allows the tank size to scale up or down as required, without the need for a complete replacement. Existing tanks can also be relocated to new sites if needed.

Key Design Specifications

Bolted storage tanks for dry bulk materials are engineered to stringent quality and safety standards. Some of the key design specifications include:

Panel and Component Materials

The steel panels and structural components are typically made from high-strength, corrosion-resistant alloys like galvanized or stainless steel. These materials provide exceptional durability and resistance to chemical exposure, weathering, and mechanical stress.

Coatings and Linings

To further enhance corrosion protection and material compatibility, the interior and exterior of bolted tanks are coated with specialized paint systems or thermoplastic liners. These surface treatments prolong the tanks' service life and preserve the integrity of the stored contents.

Sealing and Gaskets

Robust, high-performance gaskets and sealants are used to ensure a leak-free, weathertight seal between the bolted steel panels. This prevents moisture intrusion and maintains the dry, contained storage environment critical for many dry bulk materials.

Structural Supports

Depending on the tank size and application, the bolted steel walls may be reinforced with vertical structural supports, such as I-beams or columns. These provide additional strength to handle heavy loads and high-wind conditions.

Venting and Aeration

Specialized venting and aeration systems are often integrated into bolted tank designs to facilitate airflow, manage temperature and moisture levels, and prevent buildup of airborne particulates or noxious gases within the tank interior.

Access and Inspection Hatches

For easy access and routine inspections, bolted tanks feature strategically placed entry hatches, manholes, and other openings to allow personnel safe entry into the tank interior as needed.

Safety and Fall Protection

To protect workers, bolted tanks are outfitted with comprehensive fall protection systems, including platforms, walkways, and guardrails around the top perimeter and access points.

Versatile Applications

Bolted storage tanks from manufacturers like Tank Connection are utilized across a diverse range of industries and applications for dry bulk materials, including:

• Grains, seeds, and other agricultural products
• Minerals, ores, and industrial aggregates
• Cement, fly ash, and other construction materials
• Plastics, resins, and chemical feedstocks
• Animal feed and pet food ingredients

The flexible, modular design of bolted tanks makes them well-suited for both small-scale on-farm storage and large-scale industrial storage facilities. They can be configured as single standalone units or interconnected in multi-tank systems to meet high-volume requirements.

Conclusion

In the world of dry bulk material storage, bolted tanks from manufacturers like Tank Connection stand out as a premier solution. Their flexible, durable, and cost-effective design makes them a versatile choice for a wide range of industries and applications. Whether you need to store grains, minerals, construction materials, or other dry bulk products, bolted tanks offer a reliable, long-lasting storage option that can be tailored to your exact needs.

For more information, contact your TEC representative or visit Tank Connection.

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