From structural damage to contamination issues, learn how to identify signs your industrial tank needs to be replaced. Stay ahead with these key insights.
Industrial tanks come in all shapes and sizes in facilities that process everything from food to fuel. Whatever their purpose, they’re a crucial part of the business world. But like any piece of equipment, they will eventually wear out, no matter how well you’ve taken care of them. Knowing when to replace your tank can save you time, money, and even legal trouble. So, how can you tell if your industrial tank needs replacement? Here’s a quick guide on what to watch for.
Visible Structural Damage
One of the most apparent signs that an industrial tank is on its way out is visible damage. Structural damage comes in many forms, including cracks, fissures, rust, and dents. Regularly inspect your tank and watch for these and other obvious signs of structural failure. Minor dents and imperfections may be easy to overlook, but never discount them. But if you notice significant damage, it’s time to consider a replacement.
Frequent Repairs
Repairs are a fact of life. However, constant repairs could indicate that the tank is nearing the end of its useful life. At some point, the cost and downtime associated with repairs outweighs the benefits of keeping the tank, so learn to recognize this in advance. Regularly scheduled inspections should help track this pattern.
Contamination Issues
Contamination is a serious issue, especially for tanks that store water or food products. Look for contamination in the form of algae growth, which could indicate moisture is getting into your tank due to inadequate sealing. Unusual smells also suggest contamination and unwanted chemical reactions. Lastly, impurities in the tank’s contents could mean your tank has been compromised. You can work with an industrial tank cleaning service to keep the threat of contamination down, but if contamination continues to occur, consider replacing the tank.
Age of the Tank
Time is the ultimate determiner of whether it’s time to replace your tank. Every tank has a lifespan, which varies depending on the material, usage, and storage conditions. For example, steel tanks typically last 20 to 30 years; fiberglass tanks last 30 to 40 years but are more prone to cracking; and polyethylene tanks have a general lifespan of around 10 to 15 years. Mind your tank’s age and its expected lifespan, and plan to replace it before critical failures occur.
Now you know how to tell if your industrial tank needs replacement. Replacing a tank is a big investment, so it’s understandable to not want to drop a lot of cash on a new one if you don’t have to. Still, learn to recognize the signs that it’s time to replace it. It may save you more money down the line!