water tank on a tower

Mistakes to Avoid during FRP Tank Installation

Most industrial or residential buildings prefer FRP tanks due to their light weight, great durability, and reasonably low pricing. However, there are several maintenance and repair issues to keep in mind with these tanks.

There are some mistakes that are both simple to make and prevent. FRP tank installation mistakes happen, and that’s why it still requires skill. By doing this, FRP tanks and the infrastructure that supports them may significantly prolong their useful lives.

Keep reading to learn about what an FRP tank is and what mistakes can be avoided during an installation process.

What are FRP Tanks?

FRP water tanks are hot-pressed Fiberglass Reinforced Plastic (FRP) water tanks that were initially developed in the early 1970s. There are several benefits over other types of tanks, making them the perfect method for clean drinking water storage.

Issues Concerning Fiberglass Storage Tanks

Fitting Issues

A significant drawback of fiberglass reinforced plastic is hand-laid fittings. Additional seams are required during manufacturing since the fittings are attached after the shell of the tanks are made. Fittings that are later installed might occasionally cause attachment and bond failure.

Impact Damage

Although steel or polyethylene tanks might be heavier than FRP, the multiple layering in FRP is stiffer and needs particular treatment during installation. When installing an FRP tank, it should be handled with care; otherwise, impact damage can become a major problem.

Scratched and Cracks

FRP tanks are prone to scratching. During installation, if major scratches occur in the tank, any contact with the tank will cause the outside shell of the tank results in micro-cracking and endanger the structural integrity.

Protection Against UV rays

Unlike polyethylene tanks, which are made with UV inhibitors, FRP tanks do not come with them. Long-term solar exposure may be dangerous for exterior FRP structures. UV exposure can produce a condition called fiber blooming, which exposes glass fibers and reduces the FRP’s capacity to withstand chemicals. Thankfully, coating a UV-resistant layer like a black resin coat during installation greatly reduces UV damage with time.

Corrosion

When installing some substances, such as Hydrofluosilicic Acid, it can corrode the fiberglass and jeopardize the structural integrity of the tank.

Get FRP Tanks Installed Today!

Each piece of industrial material has its benefits and drawbacks. After usage, how you treat and care for them is up to you. Frequent errors that people make might cause equipment to fail before it should. Our goal at Hudson Fiberglass is to ensure your total satisfaction with our servicesand premium fiberglass tank inspections.

We also offer a range of other services, including FRP pipe inspection, FRP pipe, and tank repair, fiberglass surface coating, and more!

If you want to schedule tank inspection services or repairs, get in touch with us right away.