If you’re an arable farmer, chances are you need to store liquid fertiliser for your crops. Storing chemicals requires a suitable tank that you can rely on to safely store your liquid fertiliser until it’s needed. When choosing a tank, you will notice that there are two main types: those made of glass-fibre reinforced plastic (GRP), and those made of polyethene.
Making the right choice when you need a tank for your liquid fertiliser is essential, so when deciding whether to opt for GRP or polyethene, what should you consider?
Manufacturing Processes
GRP tanks are manufactured by hand or a semi-automated process, while polyethene tanks are made using a fully automated process. Anything made by hand is subject to human error and discrepancies. Where processes are automated, the result is a consistent product with minimal likelihood of defects. The process used to produce polyethene tanks minimises the chance of defects.
Cost
Manufacturing by hand or semi-automated manufacturing is labour-intensive. Automated production has much lower labour costs, meaning that polyethene tanks are cheaper to produce. Also, chemicals can wick into GRP over time, so these tanks require lining with resin-rich corrosion barriers to prevent damage. In contrast, polyethene tanks need no lining due to their high-density, hard-wearing properties, helping to keep manufacturing costs low.
Seams and Weak Spots
Polyethene tanks are moulded as one whole unit, with no seams or joins. Some GRP tanks, however, are constructed in pieces, which are then joined together. Often, this includes separate lids and bases, as well as joins in the main body. These seams are weak points in the structure and, over time and even with good maintenance, can become prone to leaks.
Maintenance
Thanks to their design, polyethene tanks require very little maintenance. In contrast, due to the seams, the linings, and the more reactive fabric, GRP requires regular maintenance to ensure that they remain safe and usable. Periodic inspections of all parts of the tank are necessary, which often involves having to work in confined spaces.
Fragility
Sometimes tanks need to be moved. With polyethene, this is simple, as the plastic can withstand bumps, knocks and even, in some cases, being dropped. GRP, however, is much more brittle and inflexible, meaning that they can easily crack, even when moved by the experts. Moving them can be a hazardous business.
The Enduratank polyethene liquid fertiliser tanks are available in 24 sizes ranging from 1,250 to 30,000 litres, and larger capacities up to 90,000 litres can be achieved by interlinking the tanks. They’re ideal for storing bulk orders of ready mixed fertiliser, removing the need for mixing or constant agitation. Enduratank also manufactures framed support bases for their polyethene tanks, making them the perfect choice for your liquid fertiliser.
For more information or to talk to one of our sales team, call 01778 562810.
