Project Management & Erection of Tanks

1. Materials and Construction
   • Panel Materials: Sectional tanks are commonly constructed from materials such as GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic), FRP (Fiberglass Reinforced Plastic), stainless steel, or other composite materials. Each material offers specific advantages:
     • GRP/FRP: Lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and suitable for a wide range of liquids including water, chemicals, and wastewater. Panels are typically fabricated using a molding process, ensuring uniformity and durability.
     • Stainless Steel: Provides excellent mechanical strength, durability, and resistance to corrosion. Suitable for applications requiring high hygiene standards or exposure to aggressive chemicals.
   • Panel Design: Panels are engineered to withstand operational loads, environmental conditions (including wind and seismic forces), and temperature variations. Design considerations include:
     • Thickness: Panels are designed with varying thicknesses depending on tank size, fluid density, and external pressure requirements.
     • Reinforcement: Structural reinforcements such as ribs, stiffeners, or corrugations may be integrated into panel designs to enhance strength and stability.
2. Assembly Techniques
   • Bolted Connections: Panels are typically connected using stainless steel bolts and nuts. Bolt holes are pre-drilled during manufacturing, ensuring precise alignment during assembly.
     • Sealing: High-quality gaskets or sealing materials (e.g., EPDM rubber) are placed between panel joints to ensure watertight seals. Sealing materials are selected based on chemical compatibility and temperature resistance.
   • Torque Specifications: Bolts are tightened to manufacturer-recommended torque values to achieve uniform compression of seals and prevent leakage. Proper torque control is critical to maintaining joint integrity and long-term performance.
3. Structural Considerations
   • Foundation Design: Foundation requirements vary based on soil conditions, tank size, and local building codes. Common foundation types include concrete pads, ring beams, or compacted gravel bases.
   • Wind and Seismic Loads: Tanks are designed to withstand wind and seismic loads as per regional building codes and industry standards. Structural analysis considers factors such as tank height, wind exposure, and soil bearing capacity.
4. Quality Control and Testing
   • Panel Inspection: Prior to installation, panels undergo visual inspection for defects, uniformity of construction, and adherence to manufacturing specifications.
   • Leak Testing: After assembly, tanks undergo hydrostatic pressure testing to verify integrity. Tanks are filled with water or another test fluid and pressurized to a specified level while monitoring for leaks at joints, seams, and fittings.
   • Material Testing: Raw materials used in panel construction undergo quality testing for mechanical properties, chemical resistance, and durability. This ensures compliance with industry standards and performance expectations.
5. Documentation and Compliance
   • Technical Documentation: Comprehensive documentation includes assembly drawings, material certificates, test reports, and installation records. Documentation ensures traceability and compliance with regulatory requirements.
   • Regulatory Compliance: Installers adhere to local building codes, environmental regulations, and industry standards (e.g., ASTM, AWWA) governing the design, construction, and operation of sectional tanks.
6. Environmental Considerations
   • UV Protection: For GRP/FRP tanks, UV-resistant coatings or additives may be applied to protect against degradation from sunlight exposure.
   • Chemical Resistance: Tank materials and coatings are selected based on their resistance to specific chemicals and environmental conditions encountered in the application area.

The installation of sectional tanks involves a blend of advanced engineering principles, meticulous assembly techniques, and rigorous quality control measures. By focusing on material selection, structural design, bolted connections, and compliance with regulatory standards, installers ensure sectional tanks deliver reliable performance, durability, and longevity for diverse industrial, municipal, and commercial applications

Engineering and Technical Details of Erection Process for Glass Fused to Steel Tanks