Plastic VS. Steel Fuel Tanks
Trying to decide between plastic and steel fuel tanks? Fuel storage tanks come in a range of designs and sizes and are produced by a number of different manufacturers.
To help you decide between plastic and steel fuel tanks, we outline some of the key advantages and drawbacks of each so you can decide which is right for you…
Steel fuel tanks for the storage of fuel
Advantages:
- Steel is better for security, with plastic obviously being easier to drill and siphon off oil
- Steel fuel tanks are available with a capacity up to 120,000 litres
- Highly durable and long-lasting
- There is also a lot of scope for flexibility within the design of steel fuel tanks. Custom tanks can easily be made in a variety of complex designs
- Resistance to external and internal corrosion
- Priced very competitively
Disadvantages:
- Steel is much heavier so less easy to maneouver
- They can corrode over time
- Steel tanks can be vulnerable at welded seams
Equally, in recent decades, steel fuel tanks have increased their market share due to improvements in formability and weldability which have increased the competitiveness of this metal as a material for fuel storage tanks.
Plastic fuel tanks for the storage of fuel
Advantages:
- Easier to install than steel as its lighter and easier to maneouver
- Almost no limits to the shapes that these tanks can take, although you have to order an off-the-shelf-design
- Because plastic is an insulator, the transfer of heat to the fuel is delayed
- Most plastic fuel tanks are seamless, so are less prone to failure, even if it deforms, plastic has an ability to regain its natural shape
Disadvantages:
- There is a limit to the size, with maximum capacities reaching up to approx 6500 litres
- They can become weak from exposure to direct sunlight
- Can be less secure as they are easier to drill and siphon off
Finally, one issue with plastic is that, as plastic tanks have mechanical joints, when this material stretches, after continual contact with vapours and fluids, these joints can grow weak. And, of course, many plastic tanks end up in landfill since this material is not so easily recycled.
The material you choose will depend on the application and size of tank you require – and it seems that the battle between these materials is far from over. UK Bunded Fuel Tanks have both plastic and steel fuel tanks available. Give us a call today to discuss your requirements.