Storage Tank Fabrication: What to Know Before You Build

Proper storage of liquids is crucial to numerous industries, be it petrochemical processing, agriculture, food production, or water treatment. That’s where facilities like storage tanks become paramount to day-to-day operations.

But with industrial materials each having different requirements, it pays to understand the process, regulations, and considerations that go into the fabrication and building of industrial storage tanks to ensure you have the proper one for use.

Let’s get into what matters in tank fabrication and the factors to consider before building one.

With their large size requirements, there are several factors to consider before building storage tanks.

Key considerations before starting your storage tank fabrication

Industrial storage tanks require well-designed and properly fabricated construction to ensure that a given material is properly stored and safeguarded against contamination and leaks.

Here are the core factors to clarify early on:

1. Understanding your application requirements

Every material has unique risks and regulatory requirements that will dictate a tank’s design and its material selection.

• Flammable liquids (e.g., fuels): Require explosion-proof fittings, grounding systems, and fire-resistant coatings to prevent ignition hazards.
• Corrosive chemicals: Need acid-resistant linings or stainless/alloy steel construction to prevent leaks and structural degradation.
• Food-grade materials: Demand food-safe coatings, smooth welds to maintain hygiene, and easy cleaning access.
• Potable water: Require non-toxic linings and corrosion-resistant materials to ensure water safety and prevent algae or bacterial growth.
• High-temperature fluids: Call for allowances for thermal expansion, insulation, and high-heat-resistant alloys to maintain performance.

Starting with clear specifications helps avoid costly changes later.

2. Selecting the right material and coatings

Material choice affects how well a storage tank performs under real-world conditions, and is especially important if reactive chemicals or strict hygiene standards are involved.

Some commonly used materials for industrial tank fabrication include:

• Carbon steel: Widely used for general-purpose storage thanks to its strength and cost-effectiveness.
• Stainless steel: Preferred for corrosive materials, hygienic environments, or long-term outdoor use.
• Fiberglass-reinforced plastic (FRP): Suitable for certain chemicals, acids, and wastewater applications where metals may corrode quickly.
• Protective coatings: Epoxy linings, rubber linings, and other treatments extend lifespan and prevent contamination.

The climate and environment should also be taken into consideration. For instance, in Malaysia, proper material and coating selection are critical due to the humid climate, where corrosion risks are higher.

3. Regulatory codes and standards

Storage tanks must comply with strict safety and environmental regulations to ensure they are safe to use and reliable over time. Standards include:

• API 650: Sets requirements for welded storage tanks storing oil, fuel, and other liquids at atmospheric pressure.
• ASME standards: For pressure vessels and certain specialty tanks requiring rigorous engineering.
• DOSH and CIDB requirements: Malaysian codes covering workplace safety and construction practices.

Early planning ensures your project aligns with certification and inspection requirements.

4. Site preparation and access

Site readiness is just as crucial to a tank’s proper installation and operation. This necessitates important groundwork like:

• Sufficient foundations to handle weight and prevent settlement.
• Accessible routes for trailers and cranes moving large components into place.
• Designated work zones for lifting, welding, and testing activities.
• Utilities and drainage systems in place to manage runoff or spills.

Poor site preparation can delay installation and drive up costs when building your storage tank.

5. Timeline and budget planning

Storage tank fabrication projects can stretch from weeks to several months, depending on the level of complexity. Proper planning for the following is key to keeping everything on track:

• Lead times: Sourcing steel, preparing shop drawings, fabricating components, and applying coatings can take weeks or months.
• Approval and inspection: Engineering reviews, weld inspections, and hydrostatic tests can extend timelines if not coordinated early.
• Budget: Costs for transport, cranes, scaffolding, and contingency allowances should be clearly defined upfront.

A clear schedule helps keep your project moving without compromising quality.

Understanding the storage tank fabrication process

Industrial storage tank fabrication and building is a fairly long process. The overarching steps of getting one ready to use entail the following:

The whole process usually takes anywhere from 6 to 16 weeks before a tank is ready to use. Factors like tank size, material complexity, regulatory approvals, and site readiness will affect the actual timeline.

Work with SJEC for your storage tank project today

A well-built tank protects your operations, your product quality, and your bottom line for years to come. But for good outcomes to start, you’ll need clarity around design requirements, compliance considerations, and the expertise of proper storage or silo tank manufacturers, like SJEC!

At SJEC, we bring decades of experience in storage tank fabrication, installation, and maintenance across Malaysia. From single silos to complete tank farms, we help you navigate every step from material selection and regulatory approvals to final commissioning and ongoing upkeep so your investment performs reliably long into the future.

Ready to undertake your next storage tank building project with confidence? Explore our storage tank capabilities and expertise today by reaching out to our team to get started!

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