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With over 150 years of combined experience and the expertise required to provide quality in every area, COERCO is the leading specialist for mining and civil construction products and bespoke solutions in Western Australia and worldwide.

January 22, 2024

Why Using Self-Bunded Chemical Storage Tanks is Essential

Industrial Chemical Tanks

Why Using Self-Bunded Chemical Storage Tanks is Essential

Chemicals pose significant hazards to both human health and the environment. They can lead to various adverse effects, including poisoning, respiratory issues, allergic reactions, and even cancer. Additionally, chemicals can pose a serious threat to the ecosystem, endangering both plant and animal life. If not properly contained, their impact can have long-lasting consequences.

Importance of Chemical Safety

Toxic chemicals are commonly utilised in numerous industrial environments daily. While they are pervasive, certain chemicals pose greater harm than others. Chemicals can enter our bodies through inhalation, skin or eye absorption, and ingestion, among other pathways.

Let’s elaborate further on these:

Inhalation: Inhalation is the most common way for gaseous chemicals to pollute the body as they can easily be inhaled, absorbed by the respiratory system, and eventually reach the bloodstream and organs.

Skin/Eye Absorption: Extended skin contact can lead to the development of rashes and various skin conditions. Additionally, gashes can serve as entry points for chemicals to enter our bodies. It is important to note that our eyes are highly sensitive and can be susceptible to chemical exposure if we inadvertently rub or wipe them while in contact with chemicals.

Ingestion: Although rare, exposure to environments containing toxic chemicals can lead to unintentional ingestion, allowing them to enter our bodies and potentially harm our organs.

It is crucial to consider both the method of chemical entry into the body and the level of toxin absorption when assessing the hazard level of chemicals. Additionally, identifying the specific type of chemical exposure is equally important to determine the most effective approach for detoxification or reducing chemical exposure.

Therefore, it is essential to implement proper chemical handling and containment methods, such as utilising reliable self-bunded chemical tanks in WA.

Investing in a Reliable Self-Bunded Chemical Tank

Self-bunded chemical tanks are specialised containers designed for the storage, transport, and processing of a wide range of chemicals, including both hazardous and non-hazardous substances. These chemical tanks are equipped with an additional layer of protection known as a "bund." This bund acts as a safeguard, ensuring that the inner chemicals are securely contained and shielded from any potential risks or external factors that could compromise their integrity. 

They play a vital role in numerous industries, serving as a means of containing dangerous chemicals and preventing leaks and spills that could pose harm to both individuals and the environment. Additionally, chemical tanks in Western Australia assist in meeting stringent regulatory standards, ensuring compliance with chemical management regulations.

Know Your Chemicals

Before choosing a self-bunded chemical tank in WA, it is important to first identify the specific chemical you plan to contain. Determine the correct and complete name of the chemical, as well as its state (liquid, gas, or vapor).

Additionally, find out if the chemical is unstable or flammable, and if it will be mixed with any other substances. Consider the amount and duration of storage and consult your chemical supplier for a Material Safety Data Sheet. Also, determine if the chemical emits fumes and take into account environmental factors when selecting the appropriate storage tank.

Features of a Reliable Chemical Tank

When selecting a self-bunded chemical tank in WA, there are several important factors to consider. These include:

Thickness: Chemical tanks must have thicker walls than general-purpose tanks to withstand the corrosive nature of the chemicals they will contain. The wall thickness should be determined based on specific stress calculations, which take into account the specific gravity (SG) or relative density of the chemicals.

Material: It is crucial to choose chemical storage tanks made from high-quality materials, such as high-grade polyethylene, as they are less prone to corrosion compared to steel tanks.

Compatibility: Ensure that the material of the chemical tank is compatible with the specific type of chemical it will store. Consult with a chemical storage tank specialist and review the tank's chemical resistance chart. If you are unsure about the properties of the chemical, refer to its Material Safety Data Sheet.

Standards: Industrial or self-bunded chemical tanks in WA should be designed in accordance with the Australian Standards (AS/NZ4766:2006). Select a chemical tank that is Australian Standard certified and inquire about the tests the tank has undergone.

Fittings and Accessories: Consider the durability, corrosion resistance, and quality of the fittings and accessories for the chemical storage tank. Ask the manufacturer about the tests conducted on their fittings to ensure they meet your requirements. Additionally, ensure that the fittings and accessories are compatible with the specific chemical tank you will be using.

By considering these factors, you can make an informed decision when choosing a self-bunded chemical tank in WA.

Chemical Storage Quality Assurance IMG 2

 

What Are the Benefits of Using Self-Bunded Tanks?

Self-bunded chemical tanks in WA offer various benefits such as:

  • Improved Environmental Protection: One of the key advantages of self-bunded chemical storage tanks is their superior ability to prevent leaks and spills. With their double-walled design, these tanks effectively contain any potential leaks or spills within the outer layer, preventing the liquid from reaching the environment. This not only safeguards the surrounding ecosystem but also helps prevent soil and water contamination. Moreover, these tanks contribute to a greener environment by reducing your on-site footprint by 66%.
  • Cost Savings: Self-bunded chemical tanks in WA can help save costs in several ways. Firstly, they eliminate the need for constructing a separate bund or containment area, which can be expensive and time-consuming. Additionally, the secondary containment provided by the outer layer reduces the risk of costly clean-up operations in the event of a leak or spill. This can save businesses significant amounts of money in potential fines, remediation costs, and reputational damage.
  • Versatility and Mobility: Self-bunded chemical tanks in WA are designed to be easily transportable and can be relocated as needed. This makes them ideal for the mining and civil industries that require temporary storage solutions and or frequent movement in their operations. The tanks can be easily transported to different sites, providing flexibility and convenience.
  • Increased Security: The double-walled design of self-bunded chemical tanks in Western Australia enhances security by reducing the risk of theft or tampering. The outer layer acts as an additional barrier, making it more difficult for unauthorized individuals to access the stored liquid. This can be particularly important for industries that deal with hazardous or valuable substances.
  • Compliance with Regulations: Many industries have strict regulations regarding the storage and handling of liquids. Self-bunded chemical tanks are often designed to meet or exceed these regulatory requirements, ensuring compliance and minimising the risk of penalties or legal issues. The secondary containment provided by the outer layer is an essential feature for meeting these regulations.
  • Durability and Longevity: Self-bunded chemical tanks in WA are typically constructed from high-quality materials, such as steel, concrete, and even polyethylene, which makes them durable and long-lasting. They are designed to withstand harsh environmental conditions, including extreme temperatures and corrosive substances. This ensures that the tanks can be used for an extended period without the need for frequent repairs or replacements.

Why Choose Coerco’s Self-Bunded Chemical Tanks

Coerco is a trusted and leading provider of chemical tanks in Western Australia that are specifically designed to safely store chemical content for extended periods. These tanks are built with various features to ensure safety and durability.

  • Made of High-Quality ALKATUFF® Polyethylene: Our tanks are constructed using high-quality polyethylene, a durable and lightweight material that offers exceptional strength and corrosion resistance. This ensures the safe storage of chemicals. We offer a range of polyethylene grade materials such as LLDPE (Linear Low-Density Polyethylene) and HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene) to suit different storage needs. We can also build self-bunded chemical tanks made of polypropylene, which does not react with acids, making it an ideal material for various chemicals, in addition to being corrosion resistant.
  • UV-Stabilised: Our self-bunded chemical tanks in WA are designed to withstand Australia's harsh climate conditions, thanks to their UV-stabilised construction. With this feature, you can trust that our tanks will last for many years, as they are protected from the damaging effects of sunlight exposure and the elements.
  • Chemical Resistant: Our chemical tanks in WA offer an exceptional level of protection for stored chemicals. These tanks are designed to be both chemical and impact-resistant, providing an additional layer of security. With the ability to safely store several different chemicals, including highly corrosive substances like Sulfuric Acid and those that emit hazardous fumes like Nitric Acid, our tanks are built to withstand any potential chemical reactions or accidental impacts.
  • High Specific Gravity Built: Our chemical storage tanks are specifically designed to handle liquids with high specific gravity. This ensures that your tank is capable of safely storing and transporting the chemicals required for your project.
  • Custom Bunding: Coerco provides a range of custom bunding solutions, including open bunded tanks and fully contained chemical tanks in WA, ensuring the safe and secure storage of chemicals.
  • Available in Various Sizes: Coerco offers a wide range of tank sizes to suit different project requirements. Whether you need a small tank for a specific application or a larger tank for bulk storage, they have options available to meet your needs.
  • Australian Standards Compliant: Coerco tanks are meticulously designed to meet the highest standards set by Australian regulations and safety guidelines, including AS 3780 - 2008 and AS/NZS 4766:2006. This commitment to compliance ensures that our tanks are built to withstand the demands of the industry while prioritising safety.
  • Warranty Protected: Lastly, Coerco provides a 5-year warranty on our industrial process tanks, giving you peace of mind and assurance of the quality and reliability of our products.

With our state-of-the-art polyethylene processing facility, Coerco stands out as the sole manufacturer that maintains complete control over the quality of our products, from start to finish. As an ISO9001:2015 certified company, we take pride in our unwavering commitment to exceptional craftsmanship.

By choosing Coerco's chemical tanks in Western Australia, you can trust that you are getting a reliable and durable solution for safely storing chemicals. For projects requiring the safe storage of hazardous chemicals, call us at 1-800 646 277. Our specialists will be more than happy to assist you with your needs.

 

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