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Introduction
This article contains everything you will need to know about poly tanks and their use.
You will learn:
What is a Poly Tank?
Types of Poly Tanks
How Poly Tanks are Made
Uses for Poly Tanks
And much more �
Chapter 1: What are Poly Tanks?
Poly tanks are adaptable containers crafted from plastic, specifically engineered for storing, transporting, and collecting water, liquids, and powdered or granular materials. Made from either polyethylene or polypropylene, these tanks are lightweight, cost-effective, and easily managed, making them perfect for handling substantial volumes of materials.
For decades, storage tanks have been crucial in industrial settings due to their strength, durability, and ease of use. With the introduction of poly tanks, the storage landscape has transformed, offering an impressive blend of reliability and longevity. While metal tanks continue to serve important roles in certain areas, poly tanks increasingly set the standard for contemporary storage needs.
Even though poly tanks are very stable, they require an appropriate foundation for support. Suitable materials for this base include crushed gravel, sand, wood chips, or other firm substances to keep the tank securely in place. Typically, with normal use, poly tanks can have a lifespan reaching up to 20 years, as they are designed with UV stabilizers to prevent sun damage. They need minimal maintenance and can be fitted with self-cleaning systems to clear out debris that may accumulate at the bottom.
Chapter 2: What are the different types of poly tanks?
Poly tanks, short for polyethylene storage tanks, are engineered to safely store a wide variety of liquids. These plastic tanks are categorized by polyethylene grade, intended storage application, tank orientation, and additional features. The two primary categories are potable poly tanks, designed and certified for drinking water storage, and non-potable poly tanks, which store other liquids such as greywater, chemicals, fertilizers, and industrial fluids.
Vertical Poly Tanks
Vertical poly tanks, also known as upright polyethylene storage tanks, are the most common tank design and are highly valued for their space-saving footprint and superior strength. These vertical storage tanks are frequently used for storing water (including rainwater harvesting), caustic chemicals, agricultural fertilizers, and fuels. Their upright, cylindrical construction promotes uniform distribution of hydrostatic pressure, reducing stress points and increasing longevity for bulk liquid storage.
The manufacturing process for these tanks uses rotational molding (rotomolding) to create a seamless, robust, and impermeable barrier. This ensures resistance to cracking, corrosion, impacts, UV degradation, and extreme temperatures. Food-grade and FDA-approved vertical poly tanks are essential for applications in food processing, beverage manufacturing, and the pharmaceutical industry. Tank customization is available, with options including threaded and bolted fittings, sight gauges, manways, insulation jackets, heating pads, external ladders, and internal baffles to control fluid movement and mixing.
Compared to horizontal poly tanks, vertical tanks are designed for larger storage capacities and increased durability, making them ideal for farm irrigation storage, industrial process water, chemical containment, acid storage, and fire protection systems. Certain models can safely accommodate aggressive chemicals, such as sulfuric acid and sodium hypochlorite, due to specialty resin and thicker wall design.
Horizontal Poly Tanks
Horizontal poly tanks, often called leg tanks or transport tanks, feature a low-profile design with molded support legs or cradles. These tanks are highly portable, facilitating easy movement by forklifts, trucks, tractors, or mounted trailers, which is especially useful for mobile water storage and liquid chemical transport. They are commonly utilized as nurse tanks for agricultural spray rigs, livestock watering, graywater collection, and portable fuel storage.
Unlike vertical tanks, horizontal poly tanks are designed with increased stability for mobile applications and minimal sloshing during liquid transit. Their translucent construction, along with molded-in calibration markings, enables easy visual inspection of fluid levels. Typical features include manway access at the top, pressure/vacuum relief vents, and bottom drain outlets for complete drainage. The compact, oblong design is especially valuable where headroom or ground clearance is limited, such as under decks or in vehicle beds.
Industry-specific applications range from liquid fertilizer batching and defensible space firefighting to potable water supply on construction sites. Available shapes include conventional elliptical, rectangular, and DOT-compliant transport models to suit regulatory requirements and operator safety considerations.
Underground Poly Tanks
Underground poly tanks, sometimes referred to as poly cisterns or below-ground water storage tanks, are designed for discreet installation beneath the surface. They provide solutions for rainwater harvesting, emergency water supply, septic holding, and stormwater management where above-ground space is scarce or local ordinances prohibit visible tanks. Underground poly tanks can store thousands of gallons, with some models reaching 20,000 gallons or more.
These tanks are rotationally molded for seamless water-tightness and resistance to soil chemicals, root intrusion, and fluctuating ground conditions. After installation, risers provide surface-level access for inspection, maintenance, and pump servicing. Poly cistern tanks and underground water tanks must comply with local plumbing codes and NSF/ANSI standards for potable water use, making them suitable for residential, agricultural, and municipal projects.
Proper installation entails excavating an appropriately sized hole, prepping a granular drainage bed with gravel or coarse sand, and ensuring a level base to prevent settling or shifting. Options include tanks with integrated pump chambers, inlet/outlet connections for irrigation systems, stormwater bypass, and single- or dual-compartment designs for graywater or blackwater separation. Underground plastic tanks are often insulated to prevent freezing and algae growth.
Silo Poly Tanks
Silo poly tanks are specially engineered with a conical bottom, which enables efficient gravity-fed dispensing of dry goods, grains, pellets, powders, or bulk liquids. These conical tanks are integral in grain storage, seed handling, feed dispensing, and chemical mixing systems. Due to the added stress of heavy stored material, silo poly tanks require robust steel framework and support stands to uphold safety standards and prevent collapse.
The elevated structure, with measured clearance beneath the cone, streamlines material discharge into augers, conveyor belts, or packaging equipment. Typical capacities range up to 10,000 liters (approximately 2,650 gallons), with models designed for rapid filling via large top hatches. Available add-ons include level indicators, integrated valves, quick-connect outlets, dust control lids, and anti-static coatings for powders.
Chemical Poly Tank
Chemical poly tanks, essential for industrial chemical storage and hazardous waste management, are designed for the safe and compliant containment of acids, alkalis, wastewater, and volatile liquids. Their high chemical resistance, lightweight profile, and versatility have made them the storage solution of choice for many industries, including manufacturing, water treatment, mining, and food processing.
Industry-leading chemical tanks utilize corrosion-resistant resins such as cross-linked polyethylene (XLPE) to withstand harsh chemicals like hydrochloric acid and sodium hypochlorite. Double-wall and secondary containment features provide extra spill protection, aligning with EPA, NSF, and UL storage regulations. Manufacturers frequently offer certification to verify compliance with stringent environmental and occupational safety standards.
Maintaining chemical poly tanks involves periodic inspections, safe discharge procedures, and rigorous cleaning protocols. Couplings, venting systems, flange outlets, and leak detection equipment are typically standard. The seamless, one-piece construction ensures secure, leak-free containment, and the vertical configuration maximizes capacity. Chemical tanks with double-wall construction are a best practice for areas subject to regulatory audits or environmental risk considerations.
Poly Septic Tanks
Poly septic tanks, or polyethylene septic systems, provide reliable, corrosion-resistant underground wastewater management for residential, rural, and commercial properties. These tanks are engineered to withstand soil loading, effluent gases, and aggressive chemicals, outperforming concrete and metal septic tanks in chemical resistance and installation ease.
The single-piece, seamless construction ensures watertight integrity, minimizing the risk of groundwater contamination. Delivered pre-plumbed, poly septic tanks reduce installation time and cost and are easy to maneuver and relocate due to their lightweight build. With flexible placement and suitability for difficult access sites, they are ideal for new builds, retrofits, cabins, and off-grid living.
Cost-effective and durable, poly septic tanks offer prolonged service life and low maintenance requirements. They are typically installed on a prepared gravel bed to facilitate drainage and prevent tank floatation. Some models include multiple chambers to improve solids separation and treatment efficiency.
Recreational Vehicle (RV) Poly Tanks
RV poly tanks are a specialized category of polyethylene storage tanks designed for recreational vehicles, boats, and mobile applications. Common purposes include RV water tanks for fresh water delivery, graywater tanks for sink and shower drainage, and holding tanks for blackwater/waste. These tanks must meet NSF/ANSI and FDA standards for potable water and food contact safety.
Most RV poly tanks are rectangular or custom-shaped to optimize space in vehicle compartments, and are produced with seamless, single-piece construction to prevent leaks and contamination. Their compatibility with 12V water pumps, gravity-feed systems, and RV plumbing fixtures makes them essential for self-contained mobile plumbing. Accessories may include tank monitors, quick-drain valves, and inline filters to ensure reliability.
The diversity of sizes and modular options allows RV owners to tailor their water and waste storage solutions for long trips, boondocking, or marine use. Easy installation, lightweight design, and corrosion resistance are crucial benefits for vehicles frequently exposed to vibration, weather, and road chemicals.
Rectangular Poly Tanks
Rectangular poly tanks, sometimes called box tanks, are popular for their adaptable shapes and efficient space utilization. They are widely used for water storage, chemical containment, aquaponics, sump pits, brine storage, and process tanks in laboratory and industrial settings.
These plastic tanks may feature open-top or closed-lid designs—open-tops are excellent for mixing, cleaning, or dipping operations, while closed-lid rectangular tanks ensure contained, contaminant-free fluid storage. Stackable capabilities maximize vertical space in warehouses or tight equipment rooms. Rectangular tanks are preferred for applications requiring maximum volume in a given footprint, such as under-deck storage or modular water management systems.
Accessories such as bulkhead fittings, sloped bottoms for drainage, baffles for slosh control, and reinforcement ribs are available to meet rigorous industrial needs. These tanks can be manufactured from high-density polyethylene (HDPE), linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE), or other resins, depending on chemical compatibility requirements.
Poly Water Tanks
Poly water tanks—commonly called plastic water tanks, potable water tanks, or polyethylene water tanks—are the backbone of residential, agricultural, fire suppression, and commercial water storage. Built for chemical resistance, impact durability, and long service life, poly water tanks deliver clean, safe, and reliable water supply to homes, farms, ranches, and remote locations.
These storage tanks are available in both horizontal and vertical forms, with capacities ranging from 50 gallons to more than 50,000 gallons to support applications from rainwater collection and irrigation to drinking water reserves and livestock watering. Poly water tanks are manufactured in colors like green, black, and dark brown for ultraviolet light resistance, which limits algae growth by blocking sunlight—an important feature for long-term water storage tanks.
Specific gravity ratings determine which liquids each tank can safely hold: a rating of 1.0 suits potable water storage, while higher ratings are available for more dense or viscous fluids. Wall thickness, resin grade, and tank design are tailored for demanding conditions, such as severe temperature swings or exposure to corrosive environments.
In addition to agricultural and household uses, poly water tanks play a critical role in firefighting tanks, rainwater harvesting systems, stormwater retention, and backup emergency water supplies. Tank sizes and configurations are chosen based on daily usage needs, available site space, regulatory codes, and delivery logistics. Accessories include float valves, sight tubes, overflow protection, autofill kits, and anti-vortex assemblies for efficient operation.
For above-ground and below-ground installations, rotationally molded poly tanks provide seamless construction, integral strength, and longevity. Underground models prevent sunlight intrusion and are insulated or buried below frost lines to avoid freezing. All potable water tanks must be certified to NSF/ANSI Standard 61 or an equivalent for drinking water safety.
Poly Water Tank Sizes
Choosing the right poly water tank size requires consideration of intended use, available installation space, frequency of filling, and transportation needs. Large capacity tanks (10,000�50,000 gallons) reduce refill frequency and are ideal for central water supply, fire protection reserves, and community rainwater collection. Smaller tanks are easier to manage and move for gardening, mobile applications, or temporary storage.
Benefits of Larger Poly Water Tanks
Lower cost per gallon due to bulk storage economy
Single-tank systems minimize plumbing complexity and maintenance
Reduced land footprint compared to multiple smaller tanks
Ideal for high-volume irrigation, livestock, or commercial water supply needs
Smaller Poly Water Tank Advantages
Lower upfront cost and ease of transportation
Minimal spillage risk—suitable for mobile or restricted access uses
Flexible placement in sheds, under buildings, on vehicles, or as modular components
Quick and simple installation/relocation for rental or temporary sites
Underground poly water tanks offer discreet water storage and solve challenges where above-ground installation is not feasible. Their insulated, UV-blocking properties reduce the risk of algae and microbial growth, ensuring high water quality for long-term potable water storage. Most underground tanks are rated for use as potable water cisterns and include pump and piping systems for reliable dispensing. Proper installation below the frost line prevents freezing, with tanks ranging from small 200-gallon units to large multi-thousand-gallon designs.
With advances in polyethylene resin technology and rotational molding, poly tanks can now be custom-fabricated for highly specific needs, such as industrial chemical processing, hazardous liquid containment, salt brine storage, and even aquaculture operations. Leading manufacturers work closely with end users to design and engineer tanks with precise dimensions, connection fittings, level monitoring systems, insulation layers, and other application-specific accessories—ensuring every plastic tank solution is tailored for maximum efficiency, regulatory compliance, and longevity.
Chapter 3: How are Poly Tanks Made?
Poly tanks—also known as polyethylene storage tanks or plastic water tanks—are distinguished by their seamless, solid walls, which deliver superior leak prevention, high impact resistance, and reliable long-term storage. Unlike conventional plastic products that may use standard molding techniques for small containers, poly tanks require advanced manufacturing methods. These specialized manufacturing processes are essential to create large-capacity water storage tanks, industrial chemical tanks, and agricultural tanks that demand extra-thick, highly durable walls capable of withstanding the stresses of daily use and environmental exposure.
The primary manufacturing methods for poly tanks are rotational molding (roto molding) and blow molding. Both techniques utilize large, precision-engineered molds to form poly tanks from leading industrial-grade polymers: polyethylene (HDPE or LLDPE) and polypropylene. These resins are renowned for their chemical resistance, weatherability, and strength, making them ideal for water tanks, chemical storage tanks, rainwater harvesting tanks, septic tanks, and other critical applications.
Rotational Molding
Rotational molding, or roto molding, is the most common process for manufacturing large poly tanks—such as agricultural water tanks, chemical storage tanks, and fuel storage containers—with capacities exceeding several thousand gallons. This process involves three main phases: heating, molding rotation, and cooling. The mold rotates biaxially (on two axes) while being heated in an oven, distributing the plastic resin evenly across every interior surface. This method ensures uniform wall thickness, structural integrity, and the seamless, one-piece tank design prized for leak-proof storage solutions in commercial and industrial settings.
Loading
At the roto molding workstation—often elevated for ergonomic tank production—a precise amount of high-quality, fine polyethylene or polypropylene resin is measured and loaded into the mold. This resin’s moisture-free and uniform granularity promotes optimal material flow and prevents air bubbles, which could otherwise cause weak spots or leaks in the finished poly tank. The quantity and quality of resin directly determine the wall thickness, durability, and overall tank performance, factors critical for compliance with industry regulations and standards, including food-grade, potable water, and chemical-resistance requirements.
Prior to loading, a mold release agent is carefully applied to the interior to facilitate smooth removal of the finished tank after cooling. Molds are typically molded or machined from cast aluminum or steel, engineered to exacting tolerances that reflect the tank’s final dimensions, capacity, and auxiliary features like inlets, inspection ports, or threaded fittings.
Heating
Once loaded, the sealed mold is conveyed into an industrial oven where it undergoes controlled heating. As the mold rotates continuously on both axes—usually at a customized RPM—the polymer resin gradually melts and coats the mold’s inner surfaces. This rotational force is meticulously adjusted for each tank shape (whether cylindrical, rectangular, conical, or custom)—a crucial factor to achieve even wall distribution, strength, and resistance to hydrostatic pressure. Precise heating time and temperature profiles prevent defects such as warping, cracking, or resin under-fusion, which could otherwise compromise tank performance and service life in demanding storage environments.
Cooling
After achieving complete fusion and uniform coating, the mold is removed from the oven and gradually cooled. Air or water cooling systems are used to lower the temperature and solidify the tank without internal stresses or shrinkage. Rapid cooling is avoided to prevent internal deformation and to maintain tank dimensional accuracy—critical for tanks designed for specific space requirements, underground installation, or when manufactured as modular units for water treatment or chemical processing systems.
Properly managed cooling produces a robust, high-capacity water storage tank or chemical storage tank that complies with both industry standards and end-user specifications for structural integrity, longevity, and low maintenance.
Demolding
Once the poly tank has cooled completely, it is transferred back to the workstation where an air ejection system or manual techniques are used to remove the finished product from the mold. The tank is then inspected for wall uniformity, surface defects, and structural integrity to ensure compliance with quality assurance standards. Most poly tanks are manufactured as single-piece, monolithic units requiring minimal secondary assembly. Additional steps may include precision cutting for flanges, bulkhead fittings, manways, valve connections, venting, or lid installation, depending on the tank’s intended use for potable water, wastewater treatment, industrial chemicals, or agricultural liquids.
Blow Molding
Blow molding is another advanced poly tank manufacturing technique, particularly suited for producing large-capacity, seamless plastic tanks, including vertical water storage tanks, underground poly tanks, and high-volume chemical tanks. Unlike rotational molding, blow molding enables precise control over tank geometry, and allows for the creation of complex shapes, double-walled designs, and tanks with integrated features for plumbing or industrial process systems. This method is also popular for the mass production of clear plastic bottles, automotive parts, and containers requiring consistently high precision and repeatability.
Blow molded poly tanks are often chosen for their strength-to-weight ratio, chemical resistance, and long service life in harsh outdoor or industrial environments. The process enables rapid, large-batch manufacturing, making it ideal for applications like municipal water systems, agricultural irrigation, rainwater collection, and bulk chemical handling.
Heating and Feeding Resin
During blow molding, polyethylene or polypropylene resin is heated and melted in an extruder system featuring a hopper, rotating screw, barrel, and temperature-controlled heaters. High-purity resin pellets are loaded into the hopper and advanced along the barrel as the screw rotates, where they are precisely melted to achieve the optimal viscosity for shaping. This preparation is crucial to the production of strong, leak-proof tanks that meet exact regulatory and end-use requirements.
Parison
The plastic resin is extruded into a parison—a hollow, tube-shaped preform—which is then positioned between the two halves of the mold. To ensure the finished poly tank achieves consistent strength and volume, the wall thickness of the parison is precisely regulated by dynamically adjusting the mandrel and extrusion die gap. Modern blow molding systems offer real-time control over parison thickness for different sections of the tank, which is essential for applications requiring specific load-bearing capabilities, such as underground tanks or tanks designed for chemical containment.
Die Clamping
After forming the parison, the mold halves clamp tightly around it, ensuring a secure seal and accurate tank geometry. High-precision dies allow manufacturers to create a wide range of poly tanks—from small fuel tanks and water storage containers to multi-thousand-gallon chemical tanks. In manufacturing larger tanks, the mold and clamping system are robustly engineered to withstand immense pressure and maintain dimensional tolerances, ensuring that every tank produced is consistent and reliable.
Pressurized Air
With the mold secured, pressurized air is introduced into the parison. The air rapidly inflates the molten parison, pressing it against every contour and corner of the mold. Strict regulation of air pressure ensures the poly tank develops uniform wall thickness and structural integrity, reducing the risk of weak seams or potential leaks. Tanks designed for challenging installations, such as square or rectangular tanks, utilize multi-orifice air distribution to ensure complete resin coverage, producing highly durable and reliable storage solutions.
Cooling
After inflation, the heated poly tank is cooled inside the mold to set its final shape. Although blow molding focuses heating on the parison rather than the entire mold (as in rotational molding), cooling remains a vital stage requiring well-managed airflow and internal coolant systems. Rapid, yet controlled, cooling ensures the poly tank retains its dimensional accuracy and strength—key for tanks exposed to UV light, extreme temperatures, or buried underground.
Specialized cooling techniques, such as internal water spray systems, are often used to efficiently remove residual heat, shortening cycle times for high-volume production and preserving the tank's structural performance for years of service in municipal, industrial, or agricultural systems.
Ejection
Once sufficiently cooled and solidified, the two halves of the mold are separated, and the finished poly tank is carefully ejected. Each completed tank undergoes rigorous quality control to check for defects, structural weaknesses, and leak resistance, particularly for tanks used in potable water, hazardous chemicals, or other regulated applications. Final customization—including hole drilling for tank fittings, access ports, and labeling—ensures the poly tank meets the precise requirements of end users spanning sectors such as wastewater management, rainwater collection, and industrial processing.
Leading Manufacturers and Suppliers
Choosing the Right Poly Tank Manufacturing Process
Selecting the optimal manufacturing technique—rotational molding versus blow molding—depends on tank application, required capacity, design complexity, chemical compatibility, and regulatory standards. When sourcing poly tanks, consider certifications (such as NSF, FDA, or ASTM), liner options for specific chemicals, UV stabilization for outdoor storage, and availability of custom sizes or fittings. For more insights on how to compare poly tank types, evaluate features, or request a quote from industry-leading suppliers, refer to our dedicated poly tank resource page.
Chapter 4: What plastics are used for poly tanks?
Poly tanks are made from resins derived from petroleum, commonly referred to as polymers or plastics. These terms encompass a broad spectrum of plastic materials with diverse grades, types, strengths, and chemical compositions. Each type of plastic is chosen for its specific properties, making it suitable for different applications in plastic manufacturing.
Poly tanks are primarily made from two widely used polymers: polyethylene and polypropylene. These versatile materials are employed globally in a variety of products, including clothing hangers, beverage bottles, and durable equipment casings. Their robustness and adaptability make them ideal for manufacturing poly tanks and numerous other applications.
Polyethylene
Polyethylene, often abbreviated as PE, polythene, or polyethene, is produced through the polymerization of ethylene (C2H4), an organic hydrocarbon. This process involves adding titanium chloride and high molecular weight nonpolar saturated hydrocarbons. The result is a crystalline plastic with properties similar to paraffin. Polyethylene's molecular structure, which lacks cross-linking, contributes to its high density and chemical stability.
Polyethylene comes in various forms, including low density (LDPE), linear low density (LLDPE), linear medium density (LMDPE), high density (HDPE), ultra high molecular weight (UHMWPE), and cross-linked (PEX). While all these types have their uses in manufacturing, poly tanks are primarily made from PEX, LMDPE, and HDPE. These specific types are chosen for their superior mechanical strength, durability, and resistance to environmental conditions.
Polypropylene
Among the various materials used for manufacturing poly tanks, polypropylene—also known as propene, PP, or propylene—is particularly versatile. This plastic can be utilized in a range of applications, including textiles, packaging, and poly tanks. It is produced through the polymerization of the propene monomer using either the Ziegler-Natta process or metallocene catalysis. Polypropylene features a crystalline structure that provides it with flexibility, durability, chemical resistance, and the ability to withstand temperature fluctuations. It is part of the olefin family of double-bonded hydrocarbons. During polymerization, the propene molecules undergo bond rearrangement to form the polypropylene polymer chain.
Polypropylene stands out for its exceptional chemical resistance, ability to endure temperature fluctuations, and high level of purity. Its robust strength and durability make it a suitable choice for producing containers, including poly tanks.
Polyvinyl Chloride
Polyvinyl chloride, or PVC, comes in flexible and rigid forms, depending on the additives used. Renowned for its remarkable mechanical properties, PVC is well-suited for demanding environments requiring durable materials. Its strength rivals that of many metals, which is why it's commonly used in plumbing applications. PVC is primarily composed of chlorine, derived from salt, combined with carbon and hydrogen. It is manufactured from vinyl chloride monomer, which is produced through the chlorination of ethylene and pyrolysis, followed by polymerization to create PVC.
PVC, a thermoplastic, becomes pliable when heated, allowing it to be molded into poly tanks. The rigid variant of PVC is utilized in the production of these tanks, offering a high-density material that is both impact-resistant and chemically durable.
Chapter 5: What are the benefits of poly tanks?
Poly tanks have long been utilized for water storage and the transportation of chemicals like pesticides and fertilizers. Their popularity in agriculture stems from their durability, strength, and ease of movement. The lightweight nature of poly tanks allows for flexible placement in various locations, reducing the risk of cracking or leaking.
Cost
Poly tanks are often preferred over metal tanks primarily because of their lower cost. This affordability is attributed to the inexpensive raw materials required for their production, as well as the more efficient manufacturing processes involved. Consequently, poly tanks offer a cost-effective alternative to metal tanks.
Weight
Poly tanks, being lightweight, can be effortlessly placed without the need for specialized support. Installing underground poly tanks is simpler compared to concrete alternatives. Their sturdy construction ensures leak prevention, and the poly material remains unaffected by soil chemicals.
Positioning
Another advantage of poly tanks is their ease of handling due to their lightweight nature. They can be moved or repositioned without the need for heavy machinery or specialized tools. This flexibility is particularly useful for companies undergoing expansion or renovations, as poly tanks can be emptied, lifted, and relocated as needed to adapt to new requirements.
Variety
Poly tanks come in a vast array of sizes, colors, shapes, and designs, making them suitable for a wide range of industrial applications and spatial requirements. Additionally, manufacturers collaborate with clients to create customized poly tanks tailored to specific and unique needs, ensuring versatility and adaptability for various situations.
Architectural
The variety of poly tank designs and colors allows them to be seamlessly integrated into the architectural aesthetics of a building, a flexibility not typically found with other types of storage tanks. Often, architects incorporate poly tanks into their designs, taking advantage of their adaptability to meet specific architectural needs.
Strength
Poly tanks are renowned for their robust durability, making them ideal for challenging environments where they store water and chemicals. Unlike some metals, poly tanks resist rust and are immune to varying weather conditions. They are designed to withstand extensive use over many years with minimal maintenance and do not require specialized cleaning procedures.
Sanitary
Poly tanks are certified by the FDA and EPA for storing and transporting potable water. Their construction materials are highly hygienic and sanitary, making them a popular choice in the food and pharmaceutical sectors for their reliability and cleanliness.
Chapter 6: What regulations apply to poly tanks for chemicals?
Given the diverse range of liquids stored in poly tanks, regulatory bodies such as the FDA, EPA, NSF, and ANSI have established guidelines and standards for their production. These regulations primarily focus on the safe storage of potable water and food products, ensuring that any fluids or liquids in contact with humans meet strict safety and hygiene requirements.
Water Tank Regulations
Given the extensive use of poly tanks for potable water storage and transportation, various regulatory agencies have set specific requirements. The polyethylene used in these tanks must be inert, ensuring it does not leach chemicals or react with the water. Manufacturers must hold certifications from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), the National Sanitation Foundation (NSF), and the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), which are typically indicated on their products.
Poly tanks are required to be built to endure the pressure exerted by the stored water. This includes specifications for wall thickness and uniformity, which are assessed and verified during production. While manufacturers may use various types of resins, they all ensure that the resins comply with relevant regulatory and organizational standards.
FDA/CFR Title 21
Title 21 of the FDA and CFR outlines the standards for poly tanks used in food and beverage storage and processing. This section details the permissible resins, additives, and the construction specifications for these tanks. Poly tanks are preferred for their single-piece, seamless design, which enhances safety and dependability compared to other tank types.
CFR 1250.82 Title 21
Section CFT 1250.82 of Title 21 specifies the standards for poly tanks intended for potable water. These regulations cover aspects such as drainage, overflow management, venting, and techniques for gauging water depth. A key focus of these standards is to prevent any potential backflow that might lead to contamination of the stored drinking water.
Regulations governing poly tanks vary across different sectors, with a particular focus on those used in industrial settings. The primary concern is safety, ensuring that water remains uncontaminated and chemicals are securely contained to prevent leaks. Different organizations establish detailed guidelines for both above-ground and below-ground installations, with the latter requiring more stringent and rigorous standards.
Conclusion
A poly tank is a plastic storage tank used to store, transport, and collect water, other liquids, and granular or powder materials. They are made of polyethylene and are a cost effective, lightweight, and easy to handle storage unit that is versatile and capable of storing high volumes of materials.
In the majority of cases, under normal use, poly tanks can last up to 20 years and have UV ray stabilizers to help the tank endure the effects of the sun. Poly tanks require less maintenance and can be set up with a tank self-cleaning system that removes debris that may settle in the bottom of the tank.
There is an endless list of the types and kinds of poly tanks, which are separated into various groups in accordance with their grade, use, the type of polyethylene, and where they are located with some poly tanks being located below ground.
One of the outstanding features of poly tanks is their versatility, which has made them applicable to a wide variety of conditions and environments.
Polyethylene and polypropylene are the polymers that are used to produce poly tanks and how they get their name.
Leading Manufacturers and Suppliers
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