FRP Tanks For Trailers—Things You Should Know Before Investing

Fiberglass Reinforced Plastic (FRP) tanks specifically engineered for vehicles are designed for highway travel and use. Considering the fact that fluids slosh back and forth when trailers are on the move, the end caps are thicker to withstand the force.

If you’re considering investing in FRP tanks for trailers, you’ll need to make sure you’re getting exactly what your business will need. To do that, consider asking yourself the following questions.

Will I Need Baffles?

Installing baffles in tanks that will be transported is essential. This is because during transport, liquid loads will shift. This is particularly an issue when the containers are partially loaded.  Without baffles, the fluid will move towards the tank’s front. This will exert force and push the trailer forward and hence make it harder to stop.

Moving liquid also exerts high pressure on the walls of the tank. Baffles will help to slow down the sloshing fluid. The larger your tank is, the more critical it is to install baffles.

Is it Safer to Have a Low Center of Gravity?

It would help if you also thought of the dimensions you’ll need your tanks to be. FRP tanks used for highway transportation can be designed with varying lengths, widths, and heights. You’ll need to account for the available space on the trailer before making a decision. Consult your tank manufacturer for available dimension sizes.

You should invest in a tank with a lower center of gravity when mounting it higher off the ground. This will make it less likely to roll over. Have your tanks designed in an elliptical shape because they have lower centers of gravity than perfectly round cylindrical tanks.

What about Weight Considerations?

You’ll be surprised at the number of times people overlook the tank’s weight and the trailer’s weight capacity. FRP tanks are generally heavier than other tanks such as poly tanks. The tank will also come with skids which, of course, will have their own weight. Make sure to ask your tank manufacturer about the weight of the tank you’re getting made along with the skid and the attachments. Of course, you will need the loaded weight of the tank as well so ask them about that as well.

If you need professional fiberglass Piping, custom fiberglass work, fiberglass tank repair or field welding services, contact us today. We are a premier fiberglass tank repair company operating with vast experience in the industry. Request a quote or call (386) 758-0057.