Comparing FRP Handlay, SMC, and Pressed Steel Panel Tanks: Which Is Best for Your Needs?

28 Mar 2024

Panel Tank - A Comprehensive Guide to Choosing Between FRP Hand Lay-up, SMC, and Pressed Steel

Panel Tank - A Comprehensive Guide to Choosing Between FRP Hand Lay-up, SMC, and Pressed Steel

 

Panel Tanks Comparison 3m and 4m, Number of Joints, FRP Hand Lay-up vs SMC vs Pressed Steel Panel Tanks

Introduction: Selecting the Ideal Tank for Your Needs

Choosing the right type of tank for your industrial or commercial needs is crucial for ensuring optimal performance, durability, and cost-effectiveness. Among the various options available, FRP Hand Lay-up, SMC (Sheet Molding Compound), and Pressed Steel Panel Tanks stand out as popular choices due to their unique characteristics and suitability for different applications.

Understanding the Differences: Comparing Construction and Composition

Before diving into the comparison, it's essential to understand the fundamental differences between FRP Hand Lay-up, SMC, and Pressed Steel Panel Tanks.

FRP Hand Lay-up Tanks: Handcrafted Durability

FRP Hand Lay-up Panel Tanks are constructed through the hand application of fiberglass layers and resin, providing excellent corrosion resistance and versatility in various environments.

SMC Tanks: Molded for Strength

SMC Panel Tanks are made from a composite material consisting of fiberglass, resin, and filler, molded into smooth panels, offering high durability and resistance to corrosion, UV radiation, and chemical exposure.

Pressed Steel Tanks: Rugged Reliability

Pressed Steel Panel Tanks utilize corrugated steel panels for robustness and strength, making them suitable for applications requiring mechanical impact resistance.

Comparison Table: A Quick Overview

To facilitate a quick overview, here's a comparison table highlighting the key aspects of FRP Hand Lay-up, SMC, and Pressed Steel Panel Tanks:

Comparison Table for Different Types of Panel Tanks
Aspect FRP Hand Lay-up (Mui Fatt Panel Tank) SMC (Sheet Molding Compound) Pressed Steel Panel Tank
Surface Hand-applied fiberglass layers, gelcoat applied to both side, single side smooth Molded surface, both side smooth Corrugated steel panels
Filler Pure resin and fiberglass mixture Filler, resin and fiberglass mixture N/A
Pressure Test Standard BS EN 13280:2001 Typically follows industry standards (e.g., ASTM) Typically follows industry standards (e.g., BS EN 13280, BS 1564:1975, SS22:1979)
Size Available

0.5m x 0.5m
0.5m x 1m
1m x 1m
1m x 1.5m
1m x 2m

 1m x 1m

1m x 1m
1.22m x 1.22m
Number of Joints Lesser More More
Durability Highly durable, excellent corrosion resistance, resistant to rust, rot, UV, and chemical degradation Highly durable, good resistance to corrosion, UV radiation, and chemical exposure, molded surface for added strength Sturdy and robust, good durability and strength against mechanical impacts and external forces
Maintenance Requirements Low maintenance, periodic inspections for integrity of fiberglass layers and resin Low maintenance, regular inspections for cracks, delamination, or damage to the molded surface May require more maintenance, including repainting to prevent corrosion, inspecting and repairing seals, addressing rust or coating issues
Installation Techniques Site preparation, lamination, joint sealing Site preparation, panel assembly, reinforcement and support Site preparation, panel assembly, coating and protection
Professional Involvement Recommended Recommended Recommended

*Specific details may vary based on manufacturers, designs, or standards associated with each material type

Durability and Maintenance Requirements: Ensuring Longevity and Performance

Durability and maintenance play crucial roles in determining the longevity and performance of industrial tanks. Let's explore how each tank type fares in terms of durability and maintenance requirements:

FRP Hand Lay-up Tanks: Resilience Under InspectionMui Fatt FRP Sectional Panel Tank 12000L

FRP Hand Lay-up Panel Tanks offer excellent corrosion resistance, making them durable in various environments. Their low maintenance requirements involve periodic inspections for the integrity of fiberglass layers and resin.

SMC Tanks: Strength in Regular Checks

SMC tanks boast high durability and resistance to corrosion, UV radiation, and chemical exposure. Regular inspections for cracks, delamination, or damage to the molded surface are necessary to maintain their performance.

Pressed Steel Tanks: Maintenance for Reliabililty

Pressed Steel Panel Tanks are known for their sturdy construction and robustness against mechanical impacts and external forces. However, they may require more maintenance, including repainting to prevent corrosion, inspecting and repairing seals, and addressing rust or coating issues.

Installation Techniques: Ensuring Proper Assembly

Proper installation is paramount for ensuring the structural integrity and performance of industrial tanks. Here's a brief overview of the installation techniques for each tank type:

FRP Hand Lay-up Tanks: Crafted with Precision

FRP Hand Lay-up Panel Tanks require site preparation, lamination of fiberglass layers, and proper joint sealing for structural integrity.

SMC Tanks: Assembled for Stability

SMC Panel Tanks involve site preparation, panel assembly, and reinforcement and support to maintain stability and structural integrity.

Pressed Steel Tanks: Assembled for Resilience

Pressed Steel Panel Tanks require site preparation, panel assembly, and coating and protection to enhance durability and prevent corrosion.

Conclusion: Making an Informed Decision

Choosing the right material type is a crucial decision that can impact the efficiency and longevity of industrial operations. By understanding the differences, durability, maintenance requirements, and installation techniques of FRP Hand Lay-up, SMC, and Pressed Steel Panel Tanks, you can make an informed choice that aligns with your specific needs and requirements.

Talk to us for your project today! WhatsApp or email – sales@muifatt.com.my . We guarantee our expertise to you.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. What is an FRP Hand Lay-up tank?

    • FRP Hand Lay-up tanks are constructed by hand-applying layers of fiberglass and resin, offering excellent corrosion resistance and versatility.

  2. What is an SMC tank?

    • SMC tanks are made from a composite material consisting of fiberglass and resin, molded into smooth panels, providing high durability and resistance to corrosion.

  3. What are Pressed Steel Tanks?

    • Pressed Steel Tanks utilize corrugated steel panels for robustness and strength, suitable for applications requiring mechanical impact resistance.

  4. What are the key differences between FRP Hand Lay-up, SMC, and Pressed Steel Tanks?

    • FRP Hand Lay-up tanks are handcrafted, SMC tanks are molded, and Pressed Steel Tanks are hydraulically pressed.

  5. Which tank material type is best for corrosive environments?

    • FRP Hand Lay-up and SMC tanks offer excellent corrosion resistance, making them suitable for corrosive environments.

  6. Are Pressed Steel Panel Tanks suitable for outdoor applications?

    • Yes, Pressed Steel Panel Tanks are suitable for outdoor use due to their robust steel construction, which provides resistance to environmental elements and mechanical impacts.

  7. What are the maintenance requirements for each tank type?

    • FRP Hand Lay-up and SMC tanks generally have low maintenance requirements, involving periodic inspections and cleaning. Pressed Steel Panel Tanks may require more maintenance, including repainting and inspecting seals.

  8. How are sectional panel tanks installed?

    • Sectional panel tanks are installed by assembling prefabricated panels on site, using bolts, nuts, and sealant for secure connections.

  9. What pressure test standards do these tanks follow?

    • FRP Hand Lay-up and SMC tanks typically adhere to industry standards such as ASTM. In the case of Mui Fatt FRP panel tanks, we comply with the standards outlined in BS EN 13280-2001. Pressed Steel Panel Tanks also adhere to standards like BS EN 13280.

  10. How does the number of joints affect panel tank performance?

    • The number of joints in a panel tank can significantly influence its performance. More joints increase the risk of structural weaknesses, potential leaks, and maintenance requirements. Proper sealing and reinforcement of joints are essential to ensure the tank's integrity and longevity.

  11. What is filler?

    • A filler is substance added to material, such as resin or polymer, to improve its properties or fill gaps. In composite materials like fiberglass or SMC (Sheet Molding Compound), fillers can enhance mechanical strength, control shrinkage, adjust density, or improve surface finish. Fillers are often used to tailor the characteristics of the material to suit specific applications.

  12. Why is filler needed for SMC panels but not for hand lay-up panels?

    • Fillers are added to SMC (Sheet Molding Compound) panels to enhance their mechanical properties, density control, shrinkage control, and surface finish. In contrast, hand lay-up panels utilize pure resin and fiberglass without the need for additional fillers.

  13. What is the advantage when we use pure resin and fiberglass in hand lay-up panels?

    • Using pure resin and fiberglass in hand lay-up panels offers precise customization to match application needs, leading to improved flexibility, customization, and potentially lower costs. This combination ensures excellent structural integrity and robustness. Fiberglass reinforces the resin matrix, making it strong and stiff, ideal for applications requiring durability. Tailoring the resin-to-fiberglass ratio further enhances structural properties to meet specific requirements.

  14. Which tank material type is most cost-effective?

    • The cost-effectiveness depends on various factors such as installation complexity, maintenance requirements, and longevity.

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