Double Containment Tank

Cannon Water Technology offers double wall storage tanks in various sizes and dimensions. While we manufacture our own double wall chemical storage tanks, we also source them from reputed brands, which offers our clients a wide portfolio.

Role of Double Wall Storage Tank in Enhancing Safety and Containment

Here’s how double wall storage tanks help in safe storage of chemicals and abrasive fluids.

• They are a great alternative to concrete tanks that are not only expensive but need special coating to store abrasive chemicals.
• The inner tank covering overlaps with the sidewalls of the outer tank to prevent anything from the external environment to enter inside. This prevents contamination.
• Also, the inside chemicals, oils, and so on cannot come out because of the double wall protection.
• Leakage issue if any can be quickly detected by observing the interstitial space between the two walls. In case of such as issue, the outer wall still acts as a barrier for the fluid to leak into the outside environment.
• This forms a safety layer and protects the personnel working in the area from spilling of hazardous chemicals.
• These tanks also prevent wastage and the effort required to clean up the area after any such spillage. This also saves cost and time.

How Double Wall Chemical Tanks Works

Dual containment tanks consist of an inner storage tank that holds the chemical and an outer protective shell, forming a secondary barrier. The space between the two walls is called the interstitial space. This design ensures that if the inner tank leaks, the outer shell contains the spill, preventing hazardous chemicals from escaping into the environment. The interstitial space can be monitored for leaks or pressure changes using sensors or through manual inspection, ensuring early detection of any issues before they escalate. These tanks are typically made from durable materials such as high-density polyethylene (HDPE), and fiberglass reinforced plastic (FRP) offering resistance to corrosion, chemicals, and environmental factors.

Why Process Industries Use Dual Containment Tanks?

Here is why they are essential for industries handling hazardous chemicals.

• Enhanced Safety for Personnel: It reduce the risk of hazardous chemical leaks, ensuring that workers and the surrounding environment are protected from dangerous exposure. This leads to a safe working environment for employees.
• Secondary Barrier for Added Protection: The outer wall serves as a fail-safe barrier if the inner tank experiences a leak. This secondary layer of protection helps contain any leaked chemicals, preventing environmental damage and reducing the need for expensive cleanups and downtime.
• Compliance with Regulatory Standards: Dual containment tanks help industries meet strict safety and environmental regulations, such as those set by the EPA and OSHA. These regulations require responsible chemical management, and using these tanks helps avoid costly fines and ensures compliance with safety laws.
• Application Versatility: They are designed to safely store a wide range of chemicals, from industrial cleaners to food-safe substances, making them highly adaptable for different applications.
• Cost-Efficiency Over Time: Although it have a higher initial cost compared to single-wall tanks, they provide long-term savings. The reduced risk of leaks and spills leads to lower environmental cleanup costs, reduced insurance premiums, and less downtime, making them a more cost-effective solution over time.
• Long-Term Sustainability & Environmental Responsibility: Dual containment tanks support corporate sustainability goals by preventing soil and groundwater contamination. They enable businesses to store chemicals safely while minimizing environmental impact and enhancing their reputation for responsible resource management.

What to Inspect Regularly in Double Wall Chemical Storage Tanks

Regular inspections are key to maintaining the safety and integrity of dual containment tanks. Here’s a simplified checklist of what to inspect:

• Tank Integrity:
• Check for cracks, dents, or corrosion on both the outer shell and inner tank.
• Inspect seams, joints, and fittings for stress or damage that could lead to leaks.
• Interstitial Space:
• Monitor the space between the inner and outer tanks for leaks, pressure changes, or chemical accumulation.
• Use leak sensors or perform manual checks to ensure it is dry and intact.
• Seals and Gaskets: Inspect seals and gaskets for wear, cracks, or chemical damage to maintain leakproof integrity.
• Level and Overflow Indicators:
• Test level sensors and overflow alarms to prevent overfills.
• Check vent and overflow pipes for blockages.
• Pressure and Temperature Monitoring: Check pressure relief valves and temperature systems to ensure the tank operates within safe limits.
• Protective Coatings: Examine protective coatings for deterioration or peeling to ensure continued protection against damage.

Key Factors When Selecting Dual Containment Tanks

When choosing an ideal dual containment tank for your application requirement, keep these key factors in mind.

• Chemical Compatibility: Ensure the tank material is compatible with the chemicals you plan to store (acidic, basic, solvents). Consider resistance to corrosion, abrasion, and chemical degradation.
• Size and Shape: Choose double wall chemical storage tanks that fit your available space. Also, ensure easy access for maintenance and integration with pumps or mixers.
• Smart Features: Look for leak detectors, interstitial sensors, and high-level alarms. These features allow for early leak detection and remote monitoring, enhancing safety and compliance.
• Customization: Choose a tank that can be customized in size, material, and mounting.
• Future Proofing: Choose a tank that allows for scalability and can integrate future monitoring systems or handle new chemicals.

Safe Chemical Handling Best Practices in Double Wall Chemical Tanks

When using dual containment tanks for chemical storage and handling, it’s essential to follow specific best practices to ensure safety, efficiency, and compliance with environmental regulations. Here are key best practices tailored to double wall chemical tanks.

• Ensure Proper Tank Installation: Always ensure that double wall chemical tanks are installed according to manufacturer guidelines. Confirm that the tank is placed on a level surface with adequate support, and that the interstitial space is accessible for monitoring.
• Use Correct PPE (Personal Protective Equipment): When handling chemicals in and around double wall chemical tanks, always wear the appropriate PPE, including gloves, goggles, face shields, and protective clothing, depending on the chemicals being used.
• Ensure Proper Filling Procedures: During double wall chemical storage tanks filling, avoid overfilling by following the recommended fill level limits. Ensure that high-level alarms are functional to prevent overflow and spills. Use automatic shut-off devices or manual controls to regulate chemical levels.
• Ensure Adequate Ventilation: When filling or handling volatile chemicals, ensure the area is well-ventilated to prevent the build-up of hazardous fumes. Utilize venting systems on tanks to direct vapors safely away from the workspace.
• Implement Spill Containment Procedures: In case of a leak or spill, have spill kits and emergency procedures in place. The outer wall of a double wall tank serves as a secondary containment system, but additional containment methods (e.g., catch basins or drain systems) should be used to capture any leaks detected in the interstitial space.
• Train Employees on Emergency Response: Ensure employees are well-trained on how to handle chemical spills, leaks, and emergencies. Provide training on the use of safety equipment like eyewash stations, emergency showers, and fire extinguishers, as well as the correct response for tank failures.

Features of Double Wall Containment Tanks We Offer

Our selection comprises D-Tainer Mini and Sherman Double wall storage tanks. These double wall tanks have been successfully used in various manufacturing and storage facilities. The following features of our tanks are widely appreciated by our clients.

• The inner and outer walls offer double protection against leaks and spills and hence ensure safety.
• We also offer an automatic tank filling system with high-level alarms and float valve which eliminates the issue of spillage while filling the tank. The float valve keeps the levels at the required set point.
• The materials of these tanks are resistant to corrosive chemicals, wastewater contaminants, acids, and so on. We manufacture a line of tanks specially designed for storing toxic fluids.
• We use extremely durable materials that are weather proof and highly resistant, such as high-density polyethylene.
• The double containment tanks manufactured by us are designed such as that they take minimal floor space.
• They are wall mountable owing to their flat surface design, which also obstructs anything from falling into the tank.
• Available in a variety of sizes from 7- to 120-gallon capacities and beyond.
• Custom options available in terms of shape, size, mounting options, and more. We can accommodate level sensors, pumps, and mixer agitators as per your requirements.

Applications of Double Wall Chemical Storage Tanks Across Industries

Our tanks are used across industries to store hazardous chemicals, water, acids, and more. Here are some application areas.

• Water treatment: Here, these tanks are used to store water treatment chemicals, chlorine solutions, and other cleaning solvents.
• Agriculture: Here, they are used to store pesticides, fertilizers, and other spraying solutions required for intermittent dosing.
• Oil & gas: They are used to store oils, diesel, petrol, ethanol, biofuels, and more.
• Chemicals: They are used to store solvents, acids, abrasive chemicals, and hazardous solutions.
• Food processing: Here, they ensure food safety and prevent perishing. These tanks are used to store various sauces, liquids, oils, syrups, and more.
• Temperature sensitive applications: They can be designed to store fluids that require a certain temperature range; be it hot or cold environments. These tanks can store cryogenic fluids as well as the ones that require elevated temperatures.

We have been at the forefront of water and wastewater treatment for several years now. We understand that the requirements can be quite diverse, even in similar scenarios. Our experts work closely with clients to solve their operational problems by finding the most appropriate solutions. Feel free to get in touch with our experts today to discuss your doubts on double wall tanks and other water and wastewater treatment solutions available with us.

FAQs on Our Double Wall Storage Tanks

• Are double wall tanks required by law?

Yes, in many industries dealing with hazardous materials or where groundwater contamination is a concern, double wall tanks are mandated by environmental protection regulations. Manufacturers need to ensure compliance when making these tanks for specific applications such as hazardous chemicals, food, and so on. Industry standards vary based on local, state, or federal laws.

• What kind of maintenance do double wall tanks require?

It is necessary to check for signs of wear, corrosion, and leaks. Periodically monitor the interstitial space for leaks and ensure it is clean. Maintenance frequency depends on the stored substance and environmental conditions.

• How do you detect leaks in a double wall tank?

Leak detection in double wall tanks can be conducted through visual checks, manual testing of the interstitial space, or using automated leak detection systems that alert operators in case of a leak.

• What happens if the outer tank of a double wall tank fails?

If the inner wall leaks, you have the outer wall for protection. While the outer tank's failure is less common due to its protective role and less exposure to aggressive substances, such an event would require immediate action to prevent environmental damage. Ensure you have emergency response plans and secondary containment strategies in place.

• Can double wall tanks be customized?

Yes, double wall tanks can be customized in terms of size, shape, material, and additional features like heating or cooling systems, depending on the specific needs of the application.

• What are the cost implications of opting for a double wall tank?

Double wall tanks are generally more expensive than single wall tanks as they have a complex design and construction. However, the long-term benefits of reduced environmental risk and complying with regulations does outweigh the initial investment.