Vertical steel tanks (VS) have long been the main choice for storing liquids at industrial facilities. In Ukraine, they are actively used in the oil, gas, chemical and other industries. In this article, we will consider why RVS are in such demand, what their advantages are compared to other types of tanks, and what should be paid attention to when using them.
Advantages of RVS
Vertical steel tanks (VS) have many advantages that make them the best choice for liquid storage in industrial plants. Let's consider the key advantages of these tanks:
Strength and durability
Steel is one of the strongest materials for tanks. RVS, made of high-quality steel, can serve for decades if properly operated. It is important that the steel meets Ukrainian standards, such as DSTU 2651:2010, because this guarantees the tank's resistance to mechanical damage and aggressive external factors.
Economical in the long run
Although building a steel tank may seem expensive at first, its durability and ease of maintenance pay off the cost. Unlike other materials, steel is repairable, and in the event of damage, the defect can be repaired without having to replace the entire tank.
Protection against corrosion
Modern steel tanks are protected from corrosion with the help of special coatings. This is especially important when storing aggressive substances, such as petroleum products or chemical reagents. For example, epoxy coatings, which have excellent chemical resistance, are often used for protection.
Universality of application
RVS can be adapted to different types of liquids, which makes them universal. Depending on the purpose of use, tanks can be additionally equipped with various temperature, pressure and liquid level control systems.
Environmental safety
With proper operation, vertical tanks practically eliminate leaks and emissions into the environment. This is especially important for enterprises that strive to meet strict environmental standards. Regular inspections and maintenance help prevent possible accidents.
Comparison with other types of tanks
Let's take a look at how vertical steel tanks (VSCs) compare to other types of tanks:
- Plastic tanks :
Plastic is often used to store some chemicals, but it is less durable and subject to degradation from sunlight and temperature fluctuations. Unlike steel tanks, plastic tanks are less durable and require more frequent replacement. - Concrete tanks :
Concrete tanks are resistant to mechanical influences, but they are not suitable for storing liquids aggressive to the material. Steel tanks win in terms of reliability and speed of installation, because the construction of concrete tanks requires more time and investment. - Composite tanks :
RVS are superior to composite tanks in terms of strength, durability and temperature resistance. Steel tanks can withstand high mechanical loads, serve for decades and are easier to repair, which makes them more economical in the long run. While composite tanks wear out faster and are less resistant to extreme temperatures. - Aluminum Tanks :
RVS are also superior to aluminum tanks in terms of strength and durability. Steel tanks can withstand higher mechanical loads and last longer, especially in aggressive conditions. Aluminum tanks are lighter and have good corrosion resistance, but they are less strong and can deform under strong mechanical influences.
Practical examples
Consider the example of an oil storage facility at one of the plants in Ukraine. A vertical steel tank with a volume of 2000 m³ was chosen for this facility. Thanks to the use of a special anti-corrosion coating and regular inspections, the tank has been successfully operated for more than 15 years without the need for major repairs. This proves the economic benefit and reliability of RVS for long-term storage of liquids.
Conclusion
Vertical steel tanks are a time-tested solution for storing liquids. Their strength, durability and versatility make them indispensable in industrial processes. The correct choice of materials, compliance with standards and regular maintenance allow you to operate the RVS for many years without loss of quality and safety.