3 Common Industrial Process Tanks
While process tanks may seem like ominous pieces of equipment, their ability to meet the daily needs of any operational capacity ensures that these tanks are an essential asset in any industrial setting.
Not one process tank is confined to a primary application – but will depend on the tank's configuration based on the operational needs of the business or industry.
Common applications include short and/or long-term storage, mixing, blending, metering, or dispensing.
Industrial tanks are also used in a number of industries including in the processing of chemical, cosmetics, food and beverage, oil and fuel, paper and pulp, pharmaceutical, plastic, power, energy, and water processing applications.
The Following Are 3 Types of Process Tanks Commonly Used:
Internal Floating Roof (IFR)
Internal floating roof tanks – otherwise known as IFR’s, are used for liquids with a low melting point (i.e. gasoline, or ethanol). IFR profiles are typically cone shaped, with their most distinctive feature being the interior floating roof. Within IFR’s there are 2 basic subcategories – tanks where the floating roof is supported by interior tank columns, and tanks with a self-supporting roof without interior tank columns. In all IFR types, the floating roof will move based on fluid level. In instances where there is no liquid inside the tank – the roof is held up by pontoons located a few inches above the liquid surface.
External Floating Roof (EFR)
External floating roof tanks or EFRs are optimal for storing low-density liquids such as kerosene, crude oil, or diesel. EFR profiles are defined by the roof-top radar gauge, which prevents anything from getting into the tank and contaminating the liquid inside.
Bullet Tanks
Bullet tanks are primarily used to store natural gas liquids (i.e. ammonia or butane), with profiles that are flat and spherical – bullet-like in appearance (hence the name). Bullet tanks are chosen for their ability to house huge quantities of liquid gas, and for their ability to be installed either horizontally and vertically.
