Special Tank Container

What Makes a Tank Container Special?

We consider a tank container “special” when it cannot fit into standard classifications. These containers come in a wide variety of forms, each designed for specific purposes, and we can divide them into the following categories:

1-High Specification Tank Containers

Manufacturers build high specification tank containers to a higher T-code than the standard T14, typically T20 or T22.Upon request, we can organize these tank containers with an ASME U stamp approval, required for transporting Class 6.1 products in the USA. Class 6.1 products are toxic by inhalation and require special attention to closures and gaskets. Designers design these tank containers with a bolted manlid, preferably with a tongue and groove manlid seal, full-flanged ball valves, and a nitrogen connection, as operators load and discharge these products under a closed circuit with nitrogen overpressure.

2-High Temperature Tank Containers

Engineers design standard containers to handle a maximum temperature of 130°C. However, products requiring high temperatures need special attention during both loading and discharge operations. This includes considerations of the material used for the container, its design (since the barrel will change dimensions due to high temperatures), and the necessary temperature during transport.You should apply insulation to spill boxes and bottom cabinets, and you must consider heating the valves. Moreover, warming the product before discharge may be necessary.

3-Modifcations for Operational Needs

Certain products or processes require modifications to the tank containers. Notable examples include containers with legs for easy drop-off from a chassis or mixing devices to keep products moving during storage.

Tank containers built for a dedicated product

Some products have special requirements, which may be dictated by regulations. However, sometimes the market demands higher specification tank containers than the standard requirements.

For example, tank containers built for Hydrogen Peroxide are typically un-insulated tanks fitted with a breather valve and a 10” bursting disc. These features are designed to ensure safety during transport.

In contrast, tank containers built for Ethylene Oxide are constructed to higher specifications. The market often uses tank containers built like gas tanks (T50) but certified for liquid transport. The reason behind this design is safety.

Tank containers fitted with an internal lining or a coating

Although stainless steel works well with many products, some products are incompatible with stainless steel 316L. Chlorine is often the main problem, so it’s important to understand the chemicals involved and study the MSDS sheet before selecting a tank container. A commonly used protection method is a lining or coating.

A lining consists of sheets applied to the surface, such as PTFE or rubber, while a coating is sprayed onto the surface. The process may seem simple, but it requires full attention to detail, including: avoiding sharp edges, thoroughly cleaning the stainless steel to remove any remnants of previous products, maintaining a clean work environment, controlling the temperature during both the application and curing of the coating, selecting the proper materials for valves, preparing the flanges, choosing the right type of manlid, selecting appropriate gasket materials, and properly labeling the tank container.

The success of a lined tank container depends on both the building/application process and the professional operation of the tank. Operators must follow a strict inspection program and control the interior environment. In most cases, operators need to maintain nitrogen overpressure to ensure safety and proper conditions inside the tank.

Find your specialized tank container solution

Electrical/Glycol Heated Tank Container

Heated tank containers maintain product quality, sustain temperature during transit and expedite product discharge by liquefying contents. They are adapted to tough conditions and can be connected to advanced monitoring systems.

Reefer Tank Container

A tank container with cooling capabilities, suited for transporting frozen, chilled, or cooled cargo. Equipped with integrated or external cooling motor.