Chemical Storage in Plastic Tanks: PP, PE, and PVDF
When it comes to safe and efficient chemical storage, material selection is crucial. We offer several plastic materials well-suited for tank construction, with polypropylene (PP-H), polyethylene (HDPE), and polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) being among the most requested. But which material is best for your specific needs?
Polypropylene, often abbreviated PP-H, is an excellent choice for storing acids and other chemicals that require high corrosion resistance. With a hardness of 65° Shore D, it's a robust and durable material. For storing, for example, hydrochloric acid or nitric acid, PP-H is a good option.
Polyethylene, or HDPE, is another common material for tank construction. It's well-suited for general storage purposes, such as water or oil. HDPE has a Shore hardness of 60° Shore D, making it a tough and resilient material. However, when storing more aggressive chemicals, such as chlorine or bromine, you should consider another material.
PVDF, or polyvinylidene fluoride, is a material with very high resistance to aggressive chemicals. With a Shore hardness of 75° Shore D, it's both robust and corrosion-resistant. PVDF is therefore suitable for storing chemicals that place extra 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 yourself. The wall thickness is crucial to ensure the tank can withstand the pressure it will be subjected to.
Wall Thickness Calculation
To calculate the wall thickness, you need to know which chemical will be stored and the pressure the tank will be subjected to. The material selection 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. It's a process used to join two or more plastic parts into a larger structure. When welding plastic, it's important to use the right 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's in good condition. The inspection should include checking the wall thickness, weld joints, and other critical areas.
Compared to stainless steel, plastic tanks have several advantages. They're lighter, more corrosion-resistant, and more flexible. In addition, they're often more economical, as they require less maintenance and repair.
Want to know more about our plastic materials and how they can be used for tank construction? 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