



Did you know the inside of your underground and aboveground storage tanks requires industrial coatings, too? Internal tank linings prevent corrosion, leaks, evaporation, and contamination by providing an impermeable barrier between the tank’s metal surface and its contents. However, with multiple tank liners available, which should you choose? To help you decide, the Industrial Inspection Group team listed a few things to consider when choosing a water tank lining.
1. Does the tank liner comply with NSF 600 regulations?
On January 1, 2023, reference standard NSF 600 was implemented to improve and ensure drinking water’s safety and quality. This new standard reduces the Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCL) of solvents like ethylbenzene, toluene, and xylenes in coating formulations. As a result, it rids the market of several solvent-based lining products utilized in drinking or potable water applications.
Coating manufacturers must acquire certification for new or updated formulations that comply with NSF 600. Asset owners, applicators, and SSPC Protective Coatings Specialists should also choose water tank liners that meet this criterion, preventing water quality concerns or tank integrity issues that may lead to legal consequences.
Know more about the effects of NSF 600 on coatings projects.
2. Is the material high-performing?
When it comes to performance, water tank linings should provide the following advantages:
- Corrosion resistance: Water tank linings must create a barrier between the tank material and drinking water to prevent rust or corrosion.
- Water quality protection: In accordance with NSF 600, tank linings should not impart any taste, odor, or high amounts of contaminants to the stored liquid. Protective linings need to maintain water quality and meet drinking standards.
- Flexibility and durability: Changes in water temperature (from hot to cold and vice versa during summers and winters) cause non-insulated tanks to expand and contract slightly. The lining material should be flexible and durable enough to withstand such changes.
3. In case of minor tank surface damage, will the lining be repairable?
Solvent-free epoxy linings can last several years, especially when independent coatings inspectors check on them routinely. However, if damage occurs due to inevitable or accidental circumstances, some linings offer minimal to no opportunities for repair.
By opting for tank liners with longer or limitless repair windows, owners can avoid unnecessary costs, such as abrasive blasting to remove previous coatings and rehiring contractors to redo the lining.
Also read: 5 Industrial Coating Mistakes and How to Protect Your Assets
4. How long will it take to finish a tank lining project?
In general, smaller water tanks take a few days to complete, while large containers might require several weeks. The exact timeline varies depending on each project’s complexity, scale, and any unforeseen challenges that may arise.
For timely project completion and assistance in choosing a liner for your tank requirements, hire Industrial Inspection Group for complete quality control management. Our employees – a.k.a. coatings and lining inspectors, specifiers, consultants, and all-around project managers – are some of the best protective coatings specialists in the U.S. and outlying territories.
Ensure the success of your upcoming project. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help.