While our polyethylene
plastic tanks are
made with high quality materials and manufactured to
exacting standards, improper handling and
installation can damage them or their fittings.
Follow the guidelines listed on this page to avoid
problems. You may void your warranty if you do not
handle and install your tanks properly.
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When tanks are delivered, they should be inspected
for damage before the delivery is accepted. If problems of any kind are noted, they should be
listed on the driver's bill of lading and on the
packing list. Contact us immediately so we can work
with you to correct any problems as quickly as
possible.
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Extreme care should be taken when unloading tanks
from trucks. Tanks should be unloaded onto smooth
surfaces that are free of rocks or other sharp
objects that could cause damage. Be especially
careful to guard against damage that can be caused
by the blades on forklifts. Use a crane to lift
large tanks from the truck.
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When tanks are being unloaded, moved or
installed, damage to tank fittings must be avoided.
Do not allow the weight of the tank to rest on any
of the fittings. Do not roll the tank over any of
its fittings.
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It is very important that
tanks are installed on a surface that is smooth,
firm and supports the tank completely. In almost all
circumstances, a reinforced concrete base is the
best solution. Even when a tank stand is used, the
stand must be mounted on a solid base. Be sure to
secure tanks and stands to guard against movement
that could occur from wind, seismic activity, motion
of contents or other causes.
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Consider the location of the installation and be
sure you have enough room for maintenance
activities. Since polyethylene tanks may contract or
expand due to temperature changes, atmospheric
conditions and the nature of the contents, proper
planning is important regarding the space in which
they are installed and the amount of material that
is placed in them.
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You should consider the work activities that will
take place in the vicinity of the tank and take
precaution against accidental contact with the tank.
Impact with the tank, especially at low temperatures,
can cause tank failure.
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Certain tanks require support of the sides to
avoid structural failure. Be aware of the properties
of your tanks and the properties of the contents
they will hold.
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Tanks are not designed to support the weight of
machinery, equipment or any heavy load. Do not mount
items like this on the top of the tank or on its
fittings.
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If it is necessary for workers to enter the tank,
great care should be taken to guard against asphyxiation
or breathing of hazardous vapors and fumes.
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Fittings and Accessories:
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Be aware of the type of fittings used on your
tank. Hand tighten plastic bulkhead fittings. If
they are over-tightened, fittings may leak.
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It is important that fittings,
valves, pipes and other accessories are fully supported.
Fittings and tank attachments should not carry any
weight.
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Since different materials
expand and contract at different rates, expansion joints
should be used to accommodate those differences and
prevent damage.
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Care must be taken with the
installation of accessories. Immersion heaters, for
instance, must be installed so that they do not come in
contact with the walls of the tank. Consult the
documentation for the accessory for more detailed
installation information.
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Tank Use:
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Use tanks only for the purpose
for which they are created. Do not apply contents under
pressure or create a vaccuum unless the tank is
specifically rated for that use.
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Make sure that the materials
you store in the tank are appropriate for the properties
of the tank, fittings, gaskets and accessories.
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Do not use the tank for storing
liquids that are above or below the coninuous use
temperature for that tank.
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Before Placing the Tank into Use:
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Test your installation by filling
the tank with water before you put the unit into use.
Verify the integrity of the tank and its fittings.
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