Buyers Products Vertical Storage Tanks are a convenient and portable storage solution for non-flammable liquids such as potable water and agricultural and industrial chemicals. Produced from pure, medium density polyethylene, the tanks have UV-inhibiting stabilizers so you can store liquids outdoors for longer periods of time. They have a maximum contact operating temperature of 110?? F. The translucent material has visible gallon and liter markings for quickly assessing the amount of liquid inside. The tanks have a built-in bulkhead fitting for easy siphoning and an easy-tighten cap with a wide opening for quick fill-ups.
Specifications
| Control Type | Tank Only |
|---|---|
| Height (in.) | 45.00 |
| Length (in.) | 67.00 |
| Material | Polyethylene |
| Mount Style | Strap |
| Port Size (in.) | 2.00 |
| Tank Capacity (gal.) | 550.00 |
| Tank Diameter | 67.0 |
| Tank Shape | Round Vertical |
| Width (in.) | 67.00 |
The 550 Gallon Vertical Storage Tank by Buyers Products represents a premier solution for the secure and efficient containment of a diverse range of non-flammable liquids. Engineered with precision and manufactured from high-grade materials, this tank is designed to meet the rigorous demands of agricultural, industrial, commercial, and residential applications. Its robust construction, coupled with thoughtful design features, ensures long-term reliability and optimal operational performance. With a significant capacity of 550 gallons, this vertical tank offers an ideal balance between substantial storage volume and a manageable footprint, making it a critical asset for various liquid management strategies.
Advanced Material Science: The Purity of Medium Density Polyethylene
At the core of this storage tank's superior performance is its construction from pure, medium density polyethylene (MDPE). Polyethylene is a polymer renowned for its exceptional chemical resistance, high impact strength, and excellent durability. Specifically, MDPE offers a balance of stiffness, toughness, and stress crack resistance, making it an ideal choice for liquid storage applications. Unlike high-density polyethylene (HDPE), which can be more rigid and prone to brittle fracture at lower temperatures, or low-density polyethylene (LDPE), which is more flexible but less rigid, MDPE strikes an optimal compromise. This material selection ensures that the tank can withstand the physical stresses of filling, emptying, and transportation, as well as environmental factors.
The emphasis on "pure" MDPE signifies a commitment to quality and consistency. The absence of recycled content or undesirable additives ensures that the polymer structure is uniform, minimizing potential weak points and guaranteeing predictable performance. This purity is particularly crucial when storing sensitive liquids such as potable water, as it prevents leaching of contaminants from the tank material into the stored contents. Furthermore, MDPE is lightweight compared to metallic alternatives, simplifying transportation and installation while maintaining comparable or superior corrosion resistance. It is inherently resistant to a wide spectrum of chemicals, including many acids, bases, and salts, which are commonly found in agricultural and industrial formulations. This broad chemical compatibility greatly enhances the tank's utility across various sectors, reducing the need for specialized tanks for different substances, provided the specific chemical compatibility is verified.
UV-Inhibiting Stabilizers: Engineered for Outdoor Longevity
One of the most critical features for any outdoor storage solution is its resistance to environmental degradation, particularly from ultraviolet (UV) radiation. The 550 Gallon Vertical Storage Tank incorporates advanced UV-inhibiting stabilizers directly into the MDPE material during the manufacturing process. These stabilizers work by absorbing or reflecting UV radiation, thereby preventing the energy from damaging the polymer chains. Without UV protection, polyethylene can suffer from a process known as photodegradation, leading to chain scission, cross-linking, and oxidation, which manifests as discoloration, chalking, embrittlement, and ultimately, structural failure.
The integration of UV inhibitors ensures that the tank maintains its structural integrity, mechanical properties, and aesthetic appearance even after prolonged exposure to sunlight and harsh outdoor conditions. This extends the service life of the tank significantly, safeguarding your investment and the integrity of the stored liquids. For agricultural applications, where tanks are often deployed in open fields, or industrial settings exposed to varying weather, this UV resistance is indispensable. It mitigates the risk of material degradation that could lead to leaks, contamination, or premature replacement, ensuring reliable operation for extended periods in diverse climates.
Thermal Performance and Comprehensive Liquid Compatibility
The tank is designed to operate effectively within a maximum contact operating temperature of 110°F (approximately 43.3°C). This temperature rating is crucial for ensuring the structural stability of the polyethylene and preventing any adverse effects on the stored liquid or the tank material itself. While polyethylene is known for its thermal stability, exceeding this limit can lead to material softening, deformation, and a reduction in mechanical strength, potentially compromising the tank's integrity. It is important to consider both the ambient temperature and the temperature of the liquid being stored to remain within these operational parameters.
This tank is specifically engineered for non-flammable liquids, encompassing a broad array of substances critical to various operations. For potable water storage, the MDPE material is inherently safe and inert, ensuring that the water remains uncontaminated and fit for consumption, provided appropriate hygiene and maintenance protocols are followed. In agricultural contexts, the tank is ideal for storing liquid fertilizers, herbicides, pesticides, and other crop protection chemicals. Its chemical resistance ensures that these often-corrosive or reactive substances do not degrade the tank material. For industrial applications, the tank can reliably store process water, non-corrosive industrial chemicals, detergents, certain types of coolants, and wastewater prior to treatment, supporting various manufacturing and operational processes. Before storing any specific chemical, it is always recommended to consult a detailed chemical compatibility chart to ensure the polyethylene material is suitable for long-term contact with the substance in question, considering concentration, temperature, and specific chemical properties.
Precision Monitoring and Seamless Operational Integration
Operational efficiency and accurate inventory management are critical in any liquid storage scenario. The translucent nature of the tank material, combined with clearly visible gallon and liter markings, provides an immediate and precise method for assessing the volume of liquid contained within. This feature eliminates guesswork, allowing operators to quickly monitor fluid levels, plan refills, and prevent costly overfilling or unexpected shortages. This visual transparency is a simple yet powerful tool for maintaining operational continuity and optimizing resource management, whether for irrigation scheduling, chemical batching, or emergency water reserves.
Further enhancing its functionality is the thoughtfully integrated built-in bulkhead fitting. This 2.00-inch port is strategically positioned to facilitate easy siphoning, pump integration, and plumbing connections for discharge or recirculation. The bulkhead design ensures a robust, leak-proof connection point, which is critical for maintaining system integrity and preventing spills. Its standard size allows for straightforward connection to common plumbing components, pumps, valves, and hoses, streamlining installation and maintenance. The ability to easily connect external equipment for fluid transfer significantly improves the tank's versatility and utility, enabling efficient deployment in complex liquid handling systems.
Complementing these features is the easy-tighten cap, designed with a wide opening. This design prioritizes user convenience and safety. The wide opening allows for rapid and spill-free filling, whether from a hose, bucket, or another transfer system. It also greatly simplifies internal inspection and cleaning, allowing for thorough access to maintain the tank's hygiene, especially important for potable water applications. The easy-tighten mechanism ensures a secure, leak-resistant seal, preventing evaporation, contamination, and accidental spills, even during transport or agitation. This combination of features underscores the tank's design philosophy: robust construction married with user-centric functionality for unparalleled operational ease.
Strategic Dimensions and Vertical Design Advantages
The 550 Gallon Vertical Storage Tank is characterized by its substantial capacity and optimized dimensions, specifically a diameter of 67 inches and a height of 45 inches. These dimensions define its round vertical shape, a configuration strategically chosen for its inherent advantages in various operational environments. The 550-gallon capacity is significant, offering ample storage for extended periods between refills, yet it remains manageable for single-unit deployment without requiring extensive site preparation or specialized heavy-duty equipment for initial placement. This capacity is well-suited for diverse needs, from supplementing large-scale agricultural operations to providing a critical water reserve for industrial processes or rural properties.
The vertical orientation of the tank is a key design advantage. Vertical tanks occupy a smaller footprint compared to horizontal tanks of equivalent volume, making them ideal for sites where space is at a premium. This space efficiency allows for easier integration into existing infrastructure or more flexible placement options. Furthermore, the vertical design facilitates gravity-fed discharge, which can be a significant benefit in applications where pumps are not desired or are only used for initial filling. The pressure exerted by the liquid column is effectively managed by the tank's robust MDPE construction and round shape, which evenly distributes internal forces. The relatively low height of 45 inches, despite its large diameter, contributes to enhanced stability, minimizing the risk of tipping, especially when the tank is full. This design also makes it easier to access the fill port and any top-mounted accessories or sensors, improving overall ergonomics and safety during operation and maintenance. The combination of its impressive capacity and efficient vertical form factor positions this tank as a highly adaptable and practical storage solution across a multitude of sectors.
Robust Mounting and Installation Considerations
To ensure secure placement and operational stability, the 550 Gallon Vertical Storage Tank features a "Strap" mount style. This method involves using appropriate strapping or banding systems to firmly anchor the tank to its designated location, preventing movement, especially when the tank is full and heavy, or exposed to external forces such as wind or seismic activity. Proper strapping distributes the load evenly and ensures the tank remains upright and stable throughout its operational life. The choice of mounting hardware (straps, anchor points) should always be appropriate for the total weight of the filled tank and the specific environmental conditions of the installation site.
Effective installation begins with meticulous site preparation. The tank must be placed on a firm, level, and well-drained surface, capable of supporting the full weight of the tank and its contents. For a 550-gallon tank of water (approximately 8.34 lbs/gallon), this translates to over 4,500 pounds, plus the weight of the tank itself. A concrete pad, compacted gravel base, or a reinforced frame can provide the necessary support. The surface should be free of sharp objects or uneven protrusions that could compromise the tank's base and lead to stress points or punctures over time. Proper leveling is critical to ensure even distribution of weight and to prevent undue stress on the tank walls, which could lead to deformation or premature failure.
Beyond physical placement, considerations for plumbing and accessory integration are vital. The 2.00-inch bulkhead fitting provides a robust connection point for external piping, pumps, valves, and hoses. It is imperative that all external plumbing connections are properly sealed and supported to prevent strain on the tank's fitting. For applications involving pumps, care should be taken to select pumps with flow rates and pressure capabilities suitable for the tank's dimensions and port size. Furthermore, an overflow provision should be considered, especially if the tank is regularly filled to capacity or connected to an automatic filling system. This prevents spillage and potential environmental hazards, ensuring safe and compliant operation.
Versatile Applications Across Diverse Industries
The inherent versatility of the 550 Gallon Vertical Storage Tank allows it to serve a multitude of critical functions across various sectors:
- Agricultural Sector: This tank is an invaluable asset for modern farming operations. It can be utilized for the bulk storage of liquid fertilizers, facilitating efficient nutrient delivery systems for crops. It is equally adept at holding herbicides and pesticides, ensuring chemicals are readily available for spraying operations while maintaining their integrity. Beyond chemical storage, the tank serves as an excellent reservoir for irrigation water, enabling flexible watering schedules. It can also provide a reliable source of potable water for livestock, ensuring animal welfare, or as an emergency water supply for farms during periods of drought or infrastructure disruption.
- Industrial Operations: In industrial settings, the tank's chemical resistance and robust construction make it suitable for storing process water, cooling water, and specific industrial chemicals (after compatibility verification). It can be integrated into manufacturing processes for batch mixing, as a buffer tank for wastewater pre-treatment, or for storing cleaning agents and detergents. Construction sites benefit from its capacity to hold water for dust suppression, concrete mixing, and equipment washing, providing a self-contained and easily deployable water source.
- Commercial Applications: Commercial enterprises such as landscaping companies, nurseries, and large facility management teams can utilize these tanks for storing water for extensive irrigation systems or for mixing and holding liquid nutrients for plant growth. For janitorial services or commercial cleaning, it can provide large volumes of water or cleaning solutions.
- Residential and Rural Use: Homeowners, particularly those in rural areas or with large properties, can significantly benefit from this tank. It is an excellent choice for rainwater harvesting systems, collecting and storing precipitation for garden irrigation, car washing, or toilet flushing, thereby conserving municipal water supplies. For off-grid living, it serves as a primary potable water storage solution, ensuring a consistent supply. It can also act as an emergency water reserve for residential properties, providing peace of mind during utility outages or natural disasters.
Each application leverages the tank's core strengths: its material durability, chemical compatibility, UV resistance, and significant storage volume, making it a truly multi-functional solution.
Safety, Compliance, and Longevity Through Proper Maintenance
Safety and compliance are paramount when storing liquids. For chemical storage, adherence to Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) or Safety Data Sheets (SDS) for each chemical is crucial, detailing proper handling, storage temperatures, and compatibility. While the MDPE offers broad chemical resistance, specific compatibility should always be verified for unique formulations. Implementing secondary containment measures, such as spill pallets or containment berms, is a recommended best practice, particularly for industrial or agricultural chemicals, to mitigate environmental risks in the event of a leak or spill. Adequate venting must also be ensured to prevent pressure buildup or vacuum formation during filling and emptying, especially with volatile liquids or significant temperature fluctuations. For potable water applications, regular cleaning and sanitation are vital to prevent bacterial growth and maintain water quality.
Maintaining the longevity of the 550 Gallon Vertical Storage Tank involves simple yet effective practices. Routine visual inspections for any signs of physical damage, such as cracks, abrasions, or discoloration, should be conducted. The integrity of the cap and the bulkhead fitting should be checked periodically to ensure seals are intact and tight. Cleaning the tank interior as needed, especially when switching between different types of liquids or for potable water storage, can be facilitated by the wide opening. The UV-inhibited material inherently contributes to the tank's long life, but proper siting, away from abrasive surfaces and excessive mechanical stress, further extends its service life. By following these guidelines, the tank will provide reliable and safe liquid storage for many years, offering an excellent return on investment.
In conclusion, the 550 Gallon Vertical Storage Tank is not merely a container but a sophisticated liquid management solution. Its superior MDPE construction, comprehensive UV stabilization, precise level indicators, and robust fittings combine to deliver unparalleled durability, operational efficiency, and versatility. Designed for demanding applications across agriculture, industry, commercial, and residential sectors, this tank offers a secure, long-lasting, and cost-effective means of storing essential non-flammable liquids. It represents a commitment to quality and performance, ensuring that vital resources are always available, safely contained, and easily managed.
