Buyers Products Hopper-Mounted Poly Tanks are produced out of all-virgin, medium-density polyethylene. The material contains ultraviot (UV) inhibiting stabilizers that allows the tanks to be used for long-term outdoor storage. The tanks can be mounted to a variety of hoppers. The tanks are not intended for fuel storage, and have a recommended maximum contact operating temperature of 110?? F.
Specifications
| Height (in.) | 33.00 |
|---|---|
| Length (in.) | 144.00 |
| Material | Polyethylene |
| Mount Style | Hopper |
| Port Size (in.) | 2.00 |
| Tank Capacity (gal.) | 400.00 |
| Tank Shape | Rectangle |
| Width (in.) | 28.00 |
The 400 Gallon Poly Tank represents a robust and highly adaptable solution for the containment and controlled dispensing of various non-fuel liquids across a broad spectrum of industrial, agricultural, municipal, and commercial applications. Engineered by Buyers Products, this hopper-mounted tank is meticulously constructed from all-virgin, medium-density polyethylene (MDPE), a material selected for its superior mechanical properties, chemical resistance, and longevity. Its design emphasizes functional integration, durability, and operational efficiency, making it an indispensable component for systems requiring substantial liquid storage and precise delivery.
Central to the tank's exceptional performance is its material composition: all-virgin, medium-density polyethylene. The term "all-virgin" signifies that the polymer resin has not been previously processed or recycled, ensuring unparalleled purity, consistent molecular structure, and predictable performance characteristics. This contrasts sharply with recycled materials, which can exhibit variability in physical properties due to impurities or degradation from prior use. MDPE itself strikes an optimal balance between the rigidity of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and the flexibility of low-density polyethylene (LDPE). This particular grade of polyethylene provides excellent impact resistance, crucial for applications involving dynamic forces or potential physical abrasions. Furthermore, MDPE offers commendable resistance to a wide array of chemicals, including many acids, alkalis, and inorganic salts, thereby extending the tank's utility across diverse liquid storage requirements. The smooth, non-porous surface of MDPE also inhibits bacterial growth and simplifies cleaning, contributing to hygienic operation and preventing cross-contamination between different batches of stored liquids.
A critical feature enhancing the longevity and reliability of this 400 Gallon Poly Tank is the incorporation of ultraviolet (UV) inhibiting stabilizers directly into the polyethylene material during its manufacturing process. UV radiation, particularly from sunlight, can induce photodegradation in many polymers, leading to material embrittlement, cracking, color fading, and a significant reduction in mechanical strength over time. By integrating these specialized stabilizers, the tank is meticulously protected against the damaging effects of prolonged outdoor exposure. This proactive measure ensures that the structural integrity and aesthetic appearance of the tank are maintained even under intense solar radiation, guaranteeing a prolonged service life without premature material degradation. This characteristic is particularly vital for equipment frequently used or stored outdoors, such as agricultural sprayers, municipal de-icing units, or construction site water supply systems, where exposure to environmental elements is a constant factor.
The design of this poly tank specifically as a hopper-mounted unit signifies its intended integration with a variety of mobile and stationary equipment. Hoppers are commonly found on agricultural spreaders, salt and sand spreaders for road maintenance, and various industrial conveying or dispensing systems. The rectangular tank shape, with precise dimensions of 144.00 inches in length, 28.00 inches in width, and 33.00 inches in height, is engineered for efficient space utilization and stable integration onto existing hopper frameworks. This configuration optimizes the center of gravity when the tank is full, enhancing overall stability during transport and operation. The inherent flexibility of polyethylene allows the tank to withstand vibrations and minor impacts that might compromise more rigid materials, making it exceptionally suited for dynamic environments. The strategic placement and design of mounting points facilitate secure attachment to diverse hopper designs, ensuring safe and reliable operation even under challenging conditions.
With a substantial tank capacity of 400.00 gallons (approximately 1,514 liters), this unit is designed to accommodate significant volumes of liquid, reducing the frequency of refills and enhancing operational productivity. This capacity is highly advantageous for large-scale agricultural spraying operations, where minimizing downtime for refilling tanks directly translates to increased acreage covered per day. Similarly, in municipal applications such as de-icing operations, a 400-gallon capacity allows for extended periods of continuous spreading before replenishment is required. The volumetric efficiency provided by this capacity ensures that operators can undertake extensive tasks without logistical interruptions, thereby maximizing the utilization of their equipment and personnel.
The integrated 2.00-inch port size offers a versatile interface for connectivity. This standard dimension is compatible with a wide array of fittings, valves, pumps, and hoses commonly employed in industrial and agricultural fluid transfer systems. A 2-inch port facilitates efficient filling and emptying processes, accommodating relatively high flow rates necessary for rapid deployment or replenishment of liquids. This larger port size minimizes cavitation and pressure drops during suction or discharge, ensuring optimal pump performance and streamlined operations. Whether connecting to a centrifugal pump for spraying, a gravity-feed system for dispensing, or an external filling station, the 2-inch port provides robust and reliable connection capabilities, enhancing the tank's overall functional versatility.
It is imperative to note the specific application limitations outlined for this product. The 400 Gallon Poly Tank is explicitly "not intended for fuel storage." This restriction is critical and multi-faceted. Firstly, while polyethylene exhibits broad chemical resistance, its compatibility with various types of fuels (gasoline, diesel, ethanol blends) can be limited, potentially leading to material degradation, permeation, or leaching. Secondly, fuel storage is subject to stringent regulatory requirements and safety standards, particularly concerning fire safety, static electricity dissipation, venting, and containment, which typical polyethylene utility tanks are not designed or certified to meet. Utilizing this tank for fuel storage would not only void manufacturer warranties but could also pose significant safety hazards, including fire, explosion, or environmental contamination. Adhering to this restriction is paramount for safe operation and compliance with all applicable regulations.
Another crucial operational parameter is the recommended maximum contact operating temperature of 110°F (approximately 43.3°C). Exceeding this temperature threshold can compromise the structural integrity and performance of the polyethylene material. While MDPE is thermally stable within its intended operating range, prolonged exposure to temperatures above 110°F can lead to a reduction in tensile strength, creep (deformation under sustained stress), or even material softening and potential failure. Users must ensure that the stored liquid, as well as the ambient environmental conditions, remain within this specified temperature limit. This includes consideration for heat generated by chemical reactions within the liquid, exposure to direct sunlight in extreme climates, or heat transfer from adjacent machinery. Proper ventilation and, in certain applications, temperature monitoring may be necessary to ensure compliance with this critical operating parameter and safeguard the tank's structural longevity.
The versatility of this 400 Gallon Poly Tank makes it suitable for numerous applications beyond its immediate description. In agriculture, it excels as a reservoir for liquid fertilizers, herbicides, pesticides, or even supplementary water for irrigation or livestock. Its UV-stabilized construction ensures that expensive agricultural chemicals maintain their efficacy without degradation from light exposure, while the robust material provides resilience against corrosive agents often found in these formulations. For municipal and public works departments, the tank is an ideal choice for storing and dispensing brine solutions or other de-icing agents during winter months. The chemical resistance of polyethylene prevents corrosion that metallic tanks might experience from these saline solutions, offering a long-term, low-maintenance solution. Furthermore, its use extends to water storage for dust suppression on construction sites, non-potable water supply for various industrial processes, or even as a collection tank for wastewater in remote locations where direct discharge is not permissible.
The manufacturing process for polyethylene tanks of this type typically involves rotational molding, a technique that produces seamless, one-piece parts with uniform wall thickness and exceptional strength. This process eliminates welds or joints, which are common points of failure in fabricated tanks, thereby enhancing the tank's leak integrity and overall durability. The continuous, stress-free structure inherent to rotational molding ensures that the tank can reliably withstand hydrostatic pressures from the contained liquid, as well as external stresses from mounting and movement, over its extended service life.
When considering installation, the hopper-mounted design necessitates careful attention to securement. The tank should be fastened firmly to the underlying hopper structure using appropriate hardware and methods to prevent movement, shifting, or detachment during vehicle operation or liquid transfer. Adequate support should be provided along the tank's length to distribute weight evenly and prevent localized stress concentrations, especially when the tank is filled to capacity. While polyethylene is resilient, proper installation is paramount to leveraging its full potential and ensuring operational safety. The empty weight of the tank itself is relatively low, simplifying installation, but the full weight of 400 gallons of water (approximately 3,336 pounds or 1,513 kg) underscores the importance of a robust mounting system capable of supporting significant static and dynamic loads.
In summary, the 400 Gallon Poly Tank from Buyers Products is a meticulously engineered, high-capacity liquid storage solution designed for demanding applications where durability, chemical compatibility, and outdoor longevity are paramount. Its construction from all-virgin, UV-stabilized medium-density polyethylene ensures superior material integrity and extended service life. The hopper-mounted, rectangular design optimizes integration with various machinery, offering efficient space utilization and stable operation. While providing substantial liquid containment capabilities and versatile port connectivity, adherence to its specified limitations — particularly regarding non-fuel storage and maximum operating temperature — is essential for maximizing performance, ensuring safety, and preserving the product's long-term reliability. This tank represents an investment in durable, efficient, and safe liquid management for a wide array of professional applications.
