Storage tanks play a vital role in ensuring safety and compliance for industrial and manufacturing facilities. Choosing the appropriate storage tank type for your specific application is essential to achieve optimal performance and operational efficiency. Both vertical and horizontal storage tanks represent many versatile usage applications, and the differentiation between the two depends primarily on application and available space.
Vertical Storage Tanks
A vertical storage tank is a cylindrical vessel developed to store chemicals or liquids vertically. They are typically utilized for chemical manufacturing, oil and gas, and water treatment systems. They are best used for keeping liquids with low to medium viscosity, such as water, oil, and chemicals. These tanks are generally taller and narrower than their horizontal counterparts and are designed to offer optimal storage capacity in a smaller space with a limited footprint. When floor space is at a premium, a vertical tank may be your best option – such as on oil drilling platforms or urban environments. The vertical orientation also facilitates easier access to the top of the tank, typically where chemicals or liquids are added or removed.Important to Note: Vertical tanks may not be appropriate for any materials that require mixing or blending, as the design height may make those processes less efficient.
Horizontal Storage Tanks
A horizontal storage tank is also typically cylindrical, but as its name suggests, it stores contents horizontally. These types of tanks are generally utilized for bulk storage of water, oil, or chemicals. Horizontal tanks are usually shorter and broader than vertical storage tanks. One of the most significant advantages of a horizontal storage tank is its lower center of gravity, which translates to it being more stable than a vertical tank, especially during transport. Some people prefer a horizontal tank access when it comes to cleaning and maintenance.Did You Know? A horizontal tank may be a better option if you live in a region prone to earthquakes.Horizontal storage tanks are appropriate for agricultural and water treatment applications, but they are primarily utilized in the storage of corrosive or flammable liquids, such as acids/bases, gasoline, and diesel.Horizontal storage tanks can be customized with required customer-specific features, such as compartments, fittings, and pumps. Horizontal storage tanks are an excellent choice when storing several chemicals – or when materials must be dispensed directly from the tank.
Which Tank is Right For You?
Making a decision between vertical or horizontal storage tanks depends heavily on the specific application and available space in the facility.Each kind of tank has its own associated benefits and drawbacks, and choosing between them will require the consideration of several factors, such as:
the amount of chemicals needing storage
available space on-premise
maintenance requirements
When you need to acquire equipment for your business, one of the most essential decisions is whether to purchase new or reconditioned industrial equipment. Reconditioned equipment utilizes new replacement parts to guarantee that the tanks meet the original product’s specifications. Remanufactured or reconditioned equipment often represents a more affordable option that can be just as productive for your facility. Zwirner Equipment Company sells and services a broad range of horizontal and vertical chemical storage tanks that are designed to meet the highest standards of compliance, safety, and quality.Zwirner represents 30 years of industrial expertise, specializing in the remanufacturing and reconditioning of pre-owned stainless steel processing equipment. When you decide to partner with Zwirner Equipment, you can be confident that you’re getting the highest quality and the best industrial equipment services on the market. If you need a stainless steel tank, a homogenizer, or refrigeration equipment for your business – browse our current inventory or call for more information.
