
26 Apr Steel Storage Tanks, Silos & Tank Farms in Malaysia
Proper storage of bulk materials or fluids calls for the right containment system to ensure operational efficiency, safety, and cost-effectiveness. In Malaysia, many industries like petrochemicals and agriculture make use of storage tanks, silo tanks, and tank farms for various specific functions.
Let’s dive into these systems, how they differ, and what to consider when selecting the right solution for your facility.
What are steel storage tanks used for?
Steel storage tanks are designed to hold liquids such as water, chemicals, fuel, or oil. They come in a variety of sizes, shapes, and orientations (vertical or horizontal) and are typically built using stainless steel or carbon steel, depending on their contents and the environment.
Common applications include:
- Water storage for municipal or agricultural use
- Chemical processing and containment
- Oil and fuel depots
- Food and beverage manufacturing
- Distillation and wastewater systems
Storage tanks can be built as standalone units or integrated into larger processing plants. As they hold liquids, their design prioritises corrosion resistance and leak prevention.
What are silo tanks, and how are they different?
Unlike storage tanks, silo tanks (also known as silo systems) are designed to hold dry or semi-solid bulk materials like grain, cement, feed, resins, or powders. They typically come in vertical designs that allow for gravity-fed discharge and compact storage.
Here are some key features of silos:
- Typically used in agriculture, construction, and plastic manufacturing
- Designed for vertical stacking and easy loading/unloading
- Equipped with features like aeration systems, cone bottoms, and discharge gates
While a storage tank is built for fluid-tight performance, a silo tank system focuses more on aeration, bulk flow control, and resistance to pressure surges.
Comparing storage tanks vs. silo tanks
Feature | Storage Tank | Silo Tank |
---|---|---|
Contents | Liquids (water, fuel, chemicals) | Solids (grain, powder, pellets) |
Shape | Cylindrical (vertical or horizontal) | Vertical cylindrical |
Material Focus | Corrosion resistance, sealing integrity | Structural strength, flow control |
Common Use Cases | Water, fuel, chemical storage | Agriculture, food processing, cement |
Discharge Mechanism | Pumps or valves | Gravity-fed chute or conveyor |

Tank farms can store various liquids in bulk compared to standalone storage tanks or silos.
What are tank farms?
Tank farms are large-scale facilities made up of multiple storage tanks. Common in the petrochemical, oil & gas, and chemical industries, they are built to store different liquids in bulk while keeping them separate and secure.
Tank farms require:
- Integrated piping systems
- Foundation and bund wall construction
- Fire protection and safety systems
- Ventilation and inspection access
They represent the biggest system of industrial storage tanks and require strict engineering standards for safety and compliance.
Choosing the right industrial storage tank solution
When selecting between storage tanks, silo tanks, or tank farms, make a point to consider:
- Material type: Are you storing liquid, solid, or semi-solid materials?
- Capacity and flow: Do you need continuous discharge, metered flow, or bulk containment?
- Space constraints: Vertical silos save space; horizontal tanks offer easier access.
- Environmental conditions: Take into account outdoor vs. indoor use, corrosion risks, and temperature.
- Compliance: For hazardous materials, tanks must follow safety codes and testing protocols.
In any case, your chosen system needs to meet storage needs while also being up to spec and fit for long-term use.
Seek your solutions with SJEC
Whether you’re storing water, fuel, chemicals, or grain, choosing the right system from steel storage tanks to silo systems or complete tank farms is essential for safety, efficiency, and long-term performance. With that, you need a steel storage tank supplier who can deliver both quality and convenience.
Here at SJEC, we provide fully engineered solutions for industrial tank fabrication along with export-ready delivery terms like FOB (Free on Board), EXW (Ex Works), and CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) to suit both local and international buyers.
Looking for a reliable silo tank manufacturer or expert partner in industrial storage tank solutions? Get in touch with SJEC today, and we’ll help you build a system that works from the ground up.
FAQ
What is a silo tank?
A silo tank is a tall, cylindrical container used to store solid or semi-solid materials. They are common in agriculture and manufacturing, providing efficient vertical storage and controlled discharge of dry goods.
What are the types of storage tanks?
Storage tanks come in various designs based on their use and the type of material stored. Common types include vertical cylindrical tanks, horizontal tanks, fixed-roof tanks, floating-roof tanks, and pressurised vessels. The choice depends on factors like capacity, material (e.g. water, fuel, chemicals), and whether above-ground or underground installation is needed.
What is a steel storage tank?
A steel storage tank is a durable container designed to store liquids under safe and controlled conditions. Depending on the application, it can be built using stainless or carbon steel to store water, chemicals, fuel, or other materials.
What are the different types of tank farms?
Tank farms are typically classified by distribution role and transport method. Some serve regional or local supply zones, while others connect to ports, railways, or highways for bulk distribution. They may use fixed-roof, floating-roof, or pressurised tanks, depending on the contents and safety needs.