3 Factors to Remember When Buying a Fabricated Steel Pressure Tank
A pressure steel tank is your go-to solution for a domestic water supply system because it can provide a steady supply of water without the need for regular pumping. Therefore, a pressure vessel should be designed and manufactured according to the specifications of a client such as the gauge of steel material, cost of fabrication and surface coating. During the manufacturing of pressure steel tanks, durability and longevity are some of the key factors considered. Here are some aspects that clients should remember when shopping for a fabricated steel pressure tank.
1. Galvanising -- During the fabrication process, the internal and external surfaces of a pressure tank can be galvanised by immersing the materials in a bath of molten zinc at very high temperatures in what is commonly referred to as hot-dip galvanisation. The galvanisation process forms a corrosion-resistant surface that can withstand the test of time. Galvanising protects a tank by creating a barrier between the tank surfaces and the atmosphere. However, even if the protective coating is damaged, leaving the steel tank exposed to the elements will not destroy it since galvanic corrosion will automatically kick in and protect the pressure tank.
2. Thermal Insulation of External Surface -- Insulation is vital to ensuring that a pressure tank does not lose heat, especially where sub-zero temperatures can cause the water inside the tank to freeze. When a pressure tank is insulated, special care should be taken to prevent moisture from penetrating the space between the tank wall and the insulating material. Steel fabricators can install an insulation cladding, which is waterproof. Also, the application of a special inert coating to the exterior surface helps prevent corrosion. However, clients should ensure that the thermal insulation coating that is installed is maintained through regular inspection and tank maintenance.
3. Type of Material -- Clients will often specify the type of materials preferred for fabrication of pressure tanks. Some of the factors that affect the type of steel material selected include, but are not limited to, cost of equipment and manufacturing, aesthetics, corrosion and weather-resistance. Also, customers must factor in maintenance costs such as protective coatings, which is often exacerbated by choice of steel material. Since a pressure tank is used to store water, always ensure that the material for internal layers is compatible with water. Therefore, choose a steel grade that will not react with water. Note that some interior surfaces of pressure tanks are usually polished to eliminate imperfections, especially around welds, which subsequently minimises corrosion.
For more information, contact your local steel fabrication service.