Dec. 21, 2021
FRP tanks are economical, lightweight, durable and highly corrosion resistant - they're a smart choice for many applications and industries, from pulp and paper mills to wastewater management, industrial manufacturing and more. But, as with all specialty materials, making the most of your investment requires attention to a few details. If you're considering FRP for long-term chemical storage, here's what you need to know.
During the FRP manufacturing process, it is important to prevent air from being trapped in the laminate. If not properly unfolded, air can become trapped and can lead to partially filled or empty spaces (also called voids) in the finished laminate. These in turn can negatively affect the mechanical properties of the material, including reduced tensile strength, shear strength and compression strength. As a result of impact, the structure may become susceptible to leakage, rupture or other damage.
Long-term exposure to UV light can cause discoloration of the FRP structure, but it can also lead to a condition known as fiber blooming. Over time, the resin breaks down and exposes the glass fibers inside. This changes the texture of the surface and can reduce chemical resistance.
The final step in many installations and repairs of FRP structures is usually the application of a UV-resistant final coating or gelcoat to protect the structure from damaging rays.
Chemical attack and environmental conditions can cause damage to storage structures and pipelines carrying corrosive chemicals. Defects and other damage due to excessive shrinkage, delamination, cracks or even scratches during the curing process can allow chemicals to penetrate the corrosion barrier and enter the structure of the tank or pipeline.
The walls of FRP pipes can be repaired, for example, by repairing local delamination or filling voids. After adhesion testing is completed, the process typically involves removal of damaged material, surface preparation, application of glass reinforcement and resin, followed by proper post-curing to ensure maximum chemical resistance.
FRP tanks and structures are reliable and low maintenance, but should not be considered maintenance free. Early detection of potential problems can prevent catastrophic failures. An annual inspection will maximize performance. A good understanding of the appearance of the corrosion barrier will make it easier to identify potential problems.
Make a good preventive maintenance and inspection program your first line of defense and be aware of your repair and field service options.
The above picture is a large diameter FRP cylinder produced by our company using our self-developed FRP variable diameter mold ,variable diameter mold is a core mold for pipes and storage tanks, which saves the user from making different diameter products in the past by picking a large number of molds of different diameters.
If you have the need to buy, please contact us as soon as possible.
