Chemical storage in plastic tanks: PP, PE and PVDF
When it comes to the safe and efficient storage of chemicals, the choice of material is crucial. We offer several plastic materials that are well suited to tank construction, with polypropylene (PP-H), polyethylene (PE-HD) and polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) being among the most popular. But which material is best suited to your specific needs?
Polypropylene, often abbreviated to PP-H, is an excellent choice for storing acids and other chemicals that require high corrosion resistance. It is a robust and durable material. For storing hydrochloric acid or nitric acid, for example, PP-H is a good option.
Polyethylene, or PE-HD, is another common material used in tank construction. It is well suited to general storage purposes, such as water or oil. PE-HD is a tough and durable material. However, when storing more aggressive chemicals, such as chlorine or bromine, another material should be considered.
PVDF, or polyvinylidene fluoride, is a material with very high resistance to aggressive chemicals. It is both robust and corrosion-resistant. PVDF is therefore suitable for storing chemicals that place particularly high demands on resistance, such as chlorine or bromine.
How do you choose the right material and how do you calculate the appropriate wall thickness? These are important questions to ask. The wall thickness is crucial to ensuring that the tank can withstand the pressure to which it will be subjected.
Wall thickness calculation
To calculate the wall thickness, you need to know which chemical is to be stored and what pressure the tank will be subjected to. The choice of material is also an important factor. For example, a wall thickness of 10 mm for PP-H may be sufficient for storing water at room temperature. When storing a more aggressive chemical, such as chlorine, a wall thickness of 15 mm or more may be necessary.
Another important aspect of plastic tank construction is welding. This is a process used to join two or more plastic parts to form a larger structure. When welding plastic, it is important to use the correct equipment and technique to ensure a strong and corrosion-resistant joint.
Welding and inspection
We recommend a combination of mechanical and thermal welding to create a strong and corrosion-resistant joint. Regular inspection of the tank is also important to ensure it remains in good condition. The inspection should include checks on wall thickness, welded joints and other critical areas.
Compared with stainless steel, plastic tanks offer several advantages. They are lighter, more corrosion-resistant and more flexible. Furthermore, they are often more cost-effective, as they require less maintenance and repair.
Would you like to find out more about our plastic materials and how they can be used in tank construction? Please feel free to contact us, we’ll help you choose the right material for your needs!
Chemical Storage in Plastic Tanks: PP, PE, and PVDF