Selection Guide to FRP Tanks in Water Treatment

Fiber Reinforced Plastic (FRP) tanks are widely used in water treatment plants for their superior properties such as high strength, lightweight, corrosion resistance, and durability. However, selecting the right FRP tank for water treatment applications can be challenging due to the various types, sizes, and designs available on the market. In this selection guide, we will provide some key factors to consider when choosing an FRP tank for water treatment.

Design Requirements:

The first consideration when selecting an FRP tank for water treatment is the design requirements. The design requirements will depend on the type of water treatment application and the operating conditions. For example, some water treatment applications require tanks to be rectangular in shape, while others require cylindrical or round tanks. The size of the tank will also depend on the volume of water to be treated and the available space for installation. In addition, the tank's design should be able to withstand the required pressure and temperature.

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Material Selection:

The next consideration when selecting an FRP tank for water treatment is the material selection. The materials used in FRP tanks are typically composed of a resin matrix reinforced with glass, carbon, or aramid fibers. The resin matrix can be polyester, vinyl ester, or epoxy. Polyester resin is suitable for low-cost, low-temperature applications, while vinyl ester resin is suitable for high-temperature and highly corrosive environments. Epoxy resin is suitable for high-temperature and highly corrosive environments, but it is more expensive than polyester and vinyl ester resins. The fiber reinforcement is also important as it affects the tank's strength and stiffness.

Corrosion Resistance:

One of the primary advantages of FRP tanks is their superior corrosion resistance compared to traditional materials such as steel or concrete. However, the level of corrosion resistance required will depend on the type of water treatment application. For example, if the water being treated contains high levels of chlorine or other corrosive chemicals, a vinyl ester or epoxy resin tank with a higher level of corrosion resistance may be required. On the other hand, if the water being treated is relatively clean, a polyester resin tank with lower corrosion resistance may be sufficient.

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UV Resistance:

UV resistance is also an important consideration when selecting an FRP tank for outdoor water treatment applications. Exposure to sunlight can cause the tank's surface to degrade and discolor, which can affect the tank's strength and appearance. A UV-resistant coating or a pigmented resin can be applied to the tank's surface to improve its resistance to UV degradation.

Insulation:

For water treatment applications that require temperature control, such as hot water or chemical storage, insulation may be necessary. Insulation can help maintain the desired temperature inside the tank and reduce heat loss or gain. The type and thickness of insulation will depend on the required temperature range and the operating conditions.

Accessories and Fittings:

FRP tanks can be equipped with various accessories and fittings, such as manholes, flanges, nozzles, vents, and sight glasses. These accessories and fittings should be selected based on the specific water treatment application and the tank's design requirements. For example, a tank used for chemical storage may require a vent to release pressure buildup, while a tank used for water treatment may require a sight glass to monitor water levels.

Compliance with Standards:

When selecting an FRP tank for water treatment, it is important to ensure that the tank complies with relevant industry standards and regulations. For example, tanks used for potable water storage must comply with NSF/ANSI 61 certification, which ensures that the tank does not leach harmful chemicals into the water. Other relevant standards may include ASTM, ASME, or AWWA.

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