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
continuous 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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