Looking for Engineered Custom FRP & Dual Laminate Tanks?
Troy Dualam designs and shop-fabricates ASME RTP-1 certified custom FRP and dual-laminate tanks. Field installation, relining, and maintenance are provided or overseen by Troy Dualam Services. Explore our vessel specifications on the Custom FRP Tanks & Vessels page or contact our engineering team.
In 2024, the global FRP tank market was valued at $2.49 billion USD, with projections suggesting steady growth to $3.13 billion by 2028. Clearly, fiberglass reinforced plastic (FRP) tanks have earned their place in the market; they are a crucial part of countless industrial operations because they offer a lightweight, corrosion resistant storage solution. But no matter how well-built an FRP tank is, an improper installation can lead to costly downtime, or even major system failures.
At Troy Dualam, we’ve spent years perfecting our engineering and manufacturing methods. Whether it’s a straightforward upgrade or a massive, multi-tank system, tank installation requires a keen eye for detail at every stage—because a little foresight can prevent major operational setbacks. If you are considering a new FRP tank installation, here’s a quick rundown of the most important things to know to get it right the first time.
FRP Tank Installation Procedure Guidelines
1. Site Preparation & Foundation
The first step to a successful installation is proper site preparation. FRP storage tanks need a stable foundation—typically a concrete base or a compacted gravel sand layer. The surface must be level, clean, and free of debris or sharp objects that could damage the tank’s bottom or compromise its stability.
Key considerations include:
- Using fine sand or pea gravel for a smooth, compacted surface.
- Installing a sand retaining groove to maintain the sand layer gap size.
- Adding a thick rubber plate or elastomeric pad for additional cushioning where specified.
Neglecting this step can lead to tank instability, uneven stress concentrations, or mechanical damage to the tank bottom.
2. Safe Handling & Rigging
Custom industrial storage tanks are lightweight and corrosion resistant, but they must be carefully handled during transport and rigging on site. Mishandling can lead to gouges, impact fractures, or structural harm. Always follow these guidelines:
- Use cranes, spreader bars, or appropriate rigging equipment with fabric slings: Do not use steel cables directly on the laminate, and do not roll or slide the vessel.
- Avoid stepping directly on the tank with hard-soled boots—personnel should wear soft-soled shoes to prevent surface damage.
3. Installation Best Practices
Once on site, the foremost considerations for a successful installation include:
- Anchor Bolts and Securing: Install and torque anchor bolts to secure the tank against wind, seismic forces, and other environmental loads according to engineering specifications.
- Nozzle & Piping Alignment: Ensure all connected piping is independently supported so that excessive mechanical loads and moments are not transferred to the tank nozzles.
- Venting & Vacuum Protection: Verify adequate venting is installed to safeguard against accidental vacuum or negative pressure during pump-out.
4. Post-Installation Quality Inspection
Before putting your tank into chemical service, a thorough inspection is essential:
- Visual & Structural Inspection: Examine internal and external surfaces for any signs of transport or installation impact.
- Fittings & Flanges: Verify all gaskets, backing rings, and bolting torques conform to composite joint specifications.
- Hold-Downs & Anchors: Confirm that anchor chairs and tie-downs are correctly secured.
Engineering & Field Support at Troy Dualam
While this guide outlines standard best practices, every industrial tank project presents unique mechanical and site-specific criteria. Troy Dualam Inc. provides ASME RTP-1 certified shop fabrication, while field installation, relining, and on-site turnaround support are provided or overseen by Troy Dualam Services under a separate scope.
Explore our custom FRP & Dual Laminate tank specifications or contact our engineering team at Troy Dualam Inc. today to discuss your next project.
