Storage tanks are critical components used across various industries for holding a wide range of liquids, gases, and solids. Understanding the different types of storage tanks available is crucial for selecting the right one for your specific needs. In addition to answering, “How many types of storage tanks are there?”, this article will provide an overview of the most commonly used tanks, with additional information regarding industrial applications.
We’ll discuss several types of storage tanks, including their functions, applications, and materials. Before diving into the specifics of each tank type, it’s important to understand the broader categories of storage tanks used across industries, including field-erected tanks—those constructed directly at the location of use—and the various types of oil storage tanks, which are often used in the energy and petrochemical sectors.
How Many Types of Storage Tanks Are There?
When it comes to storage tank types, there are various kinds—each designed to meet specific operational and environmental requirements. Broadly speaking, storage tanks can be categorized based on key characteristics: the material they store, their size, and the way they are constructed. Here are the most common types of storage tanks used today:
- Vertical Storage Tanks: Among the most common types of storage tanks, vertical storage tanks are often used for holding liquids like chemicals, water, or petroleum products. To ensure they can withstand the weight of the stored material, they are typically made from steel, concrete, or other durable materials.
- Horizontal Storage Tanks: Often used in the oil and gas industry, horizontal tanks are ideal for storing large volumes of liquids. They’re generally built to be more compact than vertical tanks.
- Underground Storage Tanks (USTs): Primarily used for storing hazardous materials or fuels, these tanks are buried underground to protect the stored materials from environmental exposure.
- Aboveground Storage Tanks (ASTs): Installed aboveground, these tanks can be used to store a variety of liquids, including oils, chemicals, and water.
How Many Types of Tanks Are There?
In addition to the basic categories mentioned above, tanks used for industrial purposes are further divided based on their material and specific usage. To follow are some common types of industrial storage tanks:
- Fiberglass Tanks: Known for their corrosion resistance, fiberglass-reinforced plastic (FRP) tanks are used for various industries, including water treatment and chemical processing. Their lightweight construction makes them easier to install than steel or concrete.
- Steel Tanks: Strong and durable, these are among the most used tanks in industrial applications. Different grades of steel, such as carbon or stainless, are chosen based on storage requirements like large-scale industrial or municipal water storage.
- Plastic Tanks: Ideal for chemical and water storage, high-density polyethylene (HDPE) tanks are lightweight, durable, and resistant to many chemicals.
- Concrete Tanks: Often used for underground storage, these tanks are known for longevity and are commonly used for water and wastewater storage.
What Is the Most Common Type of Storage Tank?
The most common type of storage tank varies depending on the industry, but for many industrial applications, steel storage tanks are among the most popular. Due to their strength, durability, and versatility, steel storage tanks can store a wide range of materials, from water to chemicals and fuels.
The ability to withstand high pressure and impact means the liquid and gas are going to stay inside the tank—ensuring safety for all. Steel has a long lifespan and low maintenance, contributing to its cost-effectiveness.
What Are the Three Types of Storage Tanks?
To dive a little deeper into tank categories, it’s important to note that there are three primary types of tanks used across various industries:
- Pressure Tanks: Designed to store gases or liquids at a pressure higher than atmospheric pressure, pressure tanks are used in a variety of industries, including oil and gasoline.
- Atmospheric Tanks: Primarily used for storing liquids at or near atmospheric pressure, these tanks are essentially like fixed-roof tanks. You will find them used in the food, beverage, and water treatment industries.
- Vacuum Tanks: Designed to handle substances at lower than atmospheric pressure, these tanks are used in specialized applications, such as waste collection and certain types of chemical processing.
What Are the Different Types of Tanks?
There are a wide variety of tanks available for different applications. Some of the most common types include:
- Steel Tanks: Known for robustness and resistance to corrosion, steel storage tank types are durable and trusted for their long lifespan and reliability.
- Concrete Tanks: Concrete tanks are highly durable and can last for decades when properly maintained.
- Plastic Tanks: Often used for storing non-corrosive chemicals, plastic tanks are also ideal for other liquids that do not require heavy-duty containment.
When selecting the right storage tank for your needs, it’s important to understand the different types of storage tanks available and the specific advantages each offers. Whether you need a small plant-manufactured tank, a field-erected tank for large-scale chemical storage, or a specialized oil storage tank, understanding the distinctions between each is crucial for ensuring you choose the right vendor and tank for the project.
For further insights into tank selection and industrial applications, always consult with experts for guidance. Reach out to Kennedy Tank today to tap into our more than 125 years of storage tank experience.
