Best Storage Tank Insulation - Rmax

Industrial storage tanks are used to store materials such as water, oil, food, and other products. Their purpose is to keep materials safe, accessible, and prolong their longevity. Many industries require storage tanks for everything from food production to chemical and fuel operations.

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Often, these types of storage tanks are specially designed to hold specific materials, and sometimes they need to be temperature controlled in order to prevent freezing or degradation of the contents. Storage tank insulation is one way to help regulate the temperature of materials in storage.

Understanding Industrial Storage Tanks

There are many industries that use storage tanks. Here are some examples of materials that require temperature-controlled storage solutions:

Food Storage

Beverage and food ingredients that are stored in bulk may be kept in industrial tanks. These include edible oils, syrups, dairy products, grains, juices, and more. Industrial tank insulation, along with cooling and heating systems, helps to maintain proper temperature ranges.

Water Storage

Water storage is required in large tanks for factories, municipal water treatment, agriculture, manufacturing, and more. Water is susceptible to evaporation in hot temperatures and freezing in cold temperatures. That’s why water storage tanks require insulation systems in order to prevent loss or damage to the contents.

Fuel Storage

Storing gasoline and other fuels requires specialized tanks that reduce the risk of fire. Double-walled tanks can provide additional protection for potentially hazardous contents. Fire-resistant materials should also be used and the temperature should be controlled to safe ranges.

Insulation for Industrial Storage Tanks

Whether you’re insulating a tank for water, fuel, or food—storage tank insulation systems can help keep the temperature stable and safe. There are two main methods to insulate industrial storage tanks: vertical and horizontal storage tank insulation installation.

Vertical Insulation

Insulation for cold water storage tanks may be installed vertically. Vertical insulation panels run the entire height of the storage tank and fit together to form continuous insulation that is held in place by cables.

Horizontal Insulation

Another common insulation method for cold water storage tanks is horizontal insulation panels. They must be held together with bands and require specialized equipment to lift custom-fit panels that have a radius to match the tank circumference.

Spray Foam Insulation

Spray polyurethane foam insulation is another option sometimes used to insulate industrial storage tanks. However, it requires specialized equipment and the cost of material and installation can be significantly higher than foam insulation boards.

Insulation Types

Both vertical and horizontal foam storage tank insulation are made with foam insulation materials, such as polyiso. Polyiso offers a high thermal performance per inch, which means that you can achieve the desired R-value with a thinner thickness. Polyiso offers an R-value of R-6 per inch. Other foam materials, like EPS or XPS, are available but carry a lower R-value.

Polyiso is also moisture-resistant, which showcases its low permeability and vapor transmission rates. It is ideal for temperature-controlled contents so that condensation is minimized and when it does occur, it doesn’t affect the integrity or performance of the insulation.

Foam insulation is lightweight and easy to install which makes it ideal for insulating industrial storage tanks.

Environmental Considerations

By insulating your temperature-controlled storage tank, you’re already conserving energy and reducing heating and cooling costs. You can make an even bigger difference by choosing the right type of insulation.

Choosing insulation for your industrial storage tank that is environmentally-friendly can help you conserve energy while also making a positive impact on the environment. Materials that contain recycled content or are recyclable after initial use are more sustainable than those insulating materials that are harmful to the environment.

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Some foam boards, like XPS and EPS, produce greenhouse gases during manufacturing and are not biodegradable after use. Recyclability varies, so be sure to check with the insulation manufacturer when deciding which type of insulation to use.

Often, you can find information about recycled content on the product data sheet found on the manufacturer’s website. See the Rmax sustainability section for more information on what we’re doing to preserve our environment and make a positive impact.

Rmax Polyiso Insulation

Dive into the world of tank insulation materials and learn how Thermacon can guide you to the optimal choice for your storage tanks.

The Significance of Choosing the Right Insulation Material

The right insulation material can significantly improve the performance and lifespan of your storage tanks. A suitable insulation material will maintain the tank’s temperature, reduce energy consumption, prevent condensation, and minimize the risk of corrosion. It’s crucial to understand the available options and their unique benefits to make an informed decision.

Insulation materials vary greatly in their properties and applications. For instance, materials like mineral wool and fiberglass are renowned for their excellent thermal resistance and affordability, making them ideal for a wide range of applications. Polyurethane and polyisocyanurate foams, on the other hand, provide superior insulation values and moisture resistance, which is especially important for tanks storing temperature-sensitive materials or operating in humid conditions.

Emerging materials like aerogel offer outstanding thermal performance with a thin profile, allowing for insulation in space-constrained environments. And if your storage tanks operate under extreme conditions, vacuum insulated panels could be the perfect solution. These panels provide unmatched insulating capabilities but do come with a higher price tag.

It’s important to note that the material choice should also take into account the tank’s construction and design. Some materials might be more suitable for cylindrical tanks, while others are ideal for spherical or irregular shapes.

Polyurethane Foam (PUF)

Polyurethane foam, often abbreviated as PUF, is a common insulation material due to its excellent thermal resistance and low conductivity. It adheres well to the tank surface, ensuring a seamless insulation layer. Additionally, its lightweight nature makes it easy to handle and install. However, PUF requires a protective coating to shield it from mechanical damage and weathering.

Polyisocyanurate (PIR)

Polyisocyanurate, or PIR, offers a higher temperature resistance than PUF, making it a favored choice for high-temperature applications. It possesses excellent thermal properties and is resistant to fire. Like PUF, PIR also needs a protective coating for additional durability.

Mineral Wool

Mineral wool insulation, derived from rocks and minerals, is known for its robustness and fire resistance. This material is water repellent and retains its insulating properties even when wet, making it ideal for tanks located in damp or humid environments. However, it is denser and heavier than foam-based insulations, which may require more support during installation.

The Thermacon Approach to Material Selection

At Thermacon, we believe in a tailored approach to tank insulation. Our team of experts analyzes factors such as the stored material’s properties, tank dimensions, operational temperatures, and environmental conditions to suggest the most suitable insulation material. With our profound understanding of insulation materials, we can provide an optimal solution that meets your specific needs and budget.

Concluding Thoughts

The choice of insulation material plays a fundamental role in the efficiency and durability of your storage tanks. It’s not an area to be overlooked or underestimated, as it can directly affect the longevity of your investment and the functionality of your operations.

Different insulation materials offer diverse characteristics, such as heat resistance, moisture prevention, durability, and cost-effectiveness. Therefore, the selection process must be carefully executed, considering the specific needs of your storage tanks, the environmental factors, and, of course, your budget.

With over 300 different types of insulation materials to choose from, it’s understandable that the selection can be overwhelming. These materials can range from mineral wool, cellular glass, and polyurethane foams, to newer innovations like aerogel and vacuum insulated panels. Each of these materials has its own strengths and limitations in terms of thermal efficiency, moisture resistance, ease of installation, and cost.

But here’s where Thermacon’s expertise comes in. We have decades of experience in the insulation industry and a deep understanding of the variety of insulation materials available. We have always been at the forefront of the insulation technology, implementing best-in-class solutions for a wide range of applications.