What are the different types of storage tanks?
Bulk liquid storage tanks can handle various types of liquids in nearly any application. We’ve covered this in our article, "What Can Be Stored in Liquid Storage Tanks," and we’ve also covered the most common uses for bulk liquid storage tanks. Now let’s look at some differences in the types of above-ground storage tanks.
There are two major differences in our standard 21,000-gallon storage tanks based on the design of the bottom of the tank and the placement of the manifold. We focus mainly on “V bottom" tanks versus “round bottom" tanks and external manifolds versus internal manifolds. It is important to remember that United Rentals offers many different types of storage tanks to accommodate any liquid storage need you may have. All our bulk liquid storage tanks are quality engineered to perform to the highest standards and meet your specific requirements.
V Bottom Tank
Our 21,000-gallon (500 BBL) V bottom tanks are great for liquid storage. They are easy to drain and include stairs with fixed handrails and landings. Dimensions for a V bottom tank are:
- Length: 45’
- Width: 8’6”
- Height: 11’1”
These are heavy-duty tanks equipped with 0.25-inch plates. We have both smooth-wall tanks and corrugated-wall tanks. Every tank has a durable epoxy interior coating and a polyurethane external paint.
Round Bottom Tank
Our round bottom tanks are very similar to the V bottom tanks, besides a few differences. The dimensions are comparable:
- Length: 45’
- Width: 8’6”
- Height: 11’1”
But the clear difference is the bottom. These liquid storage tanks are built with the same 0.25-inch plates but have a rounded bottom. The round bottom allows for easier movement if you are storing a thicker liquid or a high-viscosity fluid that needs to be turned, rolled or mixed. All of our round bottom tanks have smooth walls, which make for easier cleaning because there are no corners. Like the V bottom tank, these round bottom tanks are easy to drain and have an epoxy interior coating and polyurethane external paint. Instead of a staircase and landing, these tanks have a small ladder and landing.
External Manifold
The manifold is the “chamber” that provides several outlets to remove liquid from the tanks. An external manifold is on the outside of the tank. This makes the manifold easier to access because it is on the front of the liquid storage tank, elevated and positioned away from the tank. You can attach hoses to the external manifold, making it easier to connect multiple tanks. However, in cold climates, the external manifold is susceptible to freezing any fluid left in the manifold, rendering it useless until thawed.
Internal Manifold
An internal manifold is located inside the tank, with the ports and openings positioned on the front wall of the unit. While this positioning may make it more difficult to maneuver than the external manifold, the biggest benefit to the internal manifold is that they are less susceptible to freezing and therefore are ideal for cold climates.
Familiarity with the differences between V bottom and round bottom tanks and between external and internal manifolds is key to making the right storage decisions on the jobsite.
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