Bolted Tanks: “Designed to” vs. “Certified”

bolted tank

Most bolted tank companies use the term “designed to” when referring to industry and quality standards. At Superior Tank Co., Inc. we can positively confirm all of our bolted steel tanks meet or exceed the expected design and quality objectives.

 

Superior Tank has undergone the very rigorous API SPEC Q1 and ISO 9001:2008 certification process which reviews the various elements of bolted steel tank manufacturing including tank order, engineering, production, delivery, installation and service. During the certification, countless processes were audited to ensure policies and procedures were in place to guarantee our steel tanks comply with set standards, meet or exceed customer expectations and are delivered within the prescribed timeframe. For example, the external ISO audit team reviewed our procedure to exactly transfer all bolted steel tank specifications from the approved Sales Order to our Engineering Department for design.  Our Engineering Department maintains an extensive electronic central library of steel tanks and steel tank components which have been verified to industry standards and exact specifications. Starting with solid and consistent design elements ensures our bolted steel tanks will meet engineering performance standards.  Raw materials such as steel used for staves is verified to meet specific quality standards. For example, surface quality, edge quality, silicone content, squaredness and flatness are checked and materials not meeting standards are rejected. Inferior and low quality materials are never used. Another element of the certification process is making sure our ground storage tanks are manufactured to precise tolerances using the latest CNC and robotic welding machinery. Quality inspectors are located at key stages to ensure finished parts meet various established specifications. Any non-conforming parts are discovered during manufacturing stage and are rejected. At the completion of the production cycle, the various steel tank components are final inspected by a designated quality control auditor and the complete inventory of parts is compared to original production checklist for accuracy.

 

In addition to being certified under the API SPEC Q1 and ISO 9001:2008 process, critical aspects of our tanks have been tested by an independent laboratory. Our factory powder coating has been stress tested for various characteristics including resistance to abrasion, significant impact, salt spray, high humidity, temperature and corrosive chemicals. In separate testing, our Silica -Zirconium (SiZr) underseal was verified to prove its ability to prevent corrosion and coating undercutting if the powder coating is damaged by a thrown rock or dropped tool. In all areas of testing, our powder coated bolted steel tanks meet or exceed performance standards for durability.

 

We understand we could save money by eliminating our strict quality standards but we have witnessed competitor’s tanks fail due to inferior materials and processes and we are unwilling to compromise quality.

 

When purchasing your next bolted steel tank, look for companies which have been API SPEC Q1 / ISO 9001:2008 certified to ensure you are actually receiving what you ordered. At Superior Tank, we can confidently state that all of our bolted steel tanks meet or exceed design and performance expectations. We do not simply try to “design to”; we succeed!

Glass Lined Bolted Tanks: I Can See Clearly Now…

Glass Lined Bolted Tank

In recent years, glass lined bolted steel tanks have become more frequent despite the higher initial cost. The arguments for a glass lined tank are simple: glass coating is non-porous and very rigid. Therefore, the theory is that liquids cannot reach the steel and cause corrosion, which could destroy the tank.

 

Unfortunately, there are a few details which impact performance of glass lined bolted steel tanks in real life. First, great care must be taken when shipping, unloading and installing steel staves to not crack the glass overlay as cracks will allow water and liquids to penetrate the enamel coating. A particular area of susceptibility is the edge of steel staves as the hard and brittle glass coating is vulnerable to impact. Even minor damage to the edge can result in a catastrophic failure of the enamel coating system. Once the glass lining has been compromised, the steel will begin to corrode under the glass coating, resulting in the coating delaminating. As the glass lining of the tank is fused to the steel at very high temperatures at the factory, this process cannot be replicated in the field. The only way to attempt to correct damage is by covering the area with mastic putty. Not only is this unattractive, but the putty mastic can peel off over time, re-exposing the damage underneath.

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The API Spec Q1 Monogram – The Mark of Quality

 

Bolted Storage Tank for Oil API

Superior Tank Company., Inc (STCI) is one of the only manufacturers of bolted steel oil storage tanks which can feature the prestigious API SPEC 12B monogram. In order for the bolted steel tank to include the API 12B monogram, the tank must strictly adhere to the API SPEC 12B standards. In addition, the tank manufacturer must be certified to meet the stringent API SPEC Q1/ISO 9001:2008 quality standards.

Our bolted steel tanks for oil storage are engineered to meet the strict API SPEC 12B design standard and include numerous elements to increase tank durability and longevity. To seal our tanks, STCI utilizes Buna-N or Viton gaskets in place of mastic putty which cannot be used for oil storage. The Buna-N and Viton gaskets are extremely durable and resistant to crude oil and other petrochemicals. In addition, the gaskets have a high tensile strength to prevent tearing and they remain flexible over time, thus eliminating leaks. For increased durability, we apply factory powder coating specifically formulated for oil storage. For continuous immersion service, epoxy factory powder coating or premium Scotchkote powder coating is applied to tank interiors. TGIC polyester powder coating is used on the exterior of our bolted steel tanks for greater UV resistance. API approved appurtenances such as specialized roof vents, gas outlets, liquid outlets and manways are used on all steel tanks for oil storage. Superior Tank Co., Inc. can also fabricate custom internal and external piping to meet customer requirements.

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Take Advantage of Outstanding Tank Leasing Rates

STCI Announces Tank Leasing Program for Steel Tanks

Recently, the rates on tank leases have changed slightly which may benefit customers interested in purchasing a new tank. Through the tank leasing program, customers can purchase new tanks and then spread out payments over several years. Our tank leasing program applies to both our welded steel tanks as well as our bolted steel tanks.

Using the leasing program allows our customers to conserve capital funds and use revenue from operations to make lease payments. Customers still retain ownership of the tanks, similar to a straight purchase. A variety of public entities as well as non-government agencies can utilize the tank leasing program including water districts, municipal utilities and private companies. The terms of our tank leasing program range in length from 24 to 60 months and our rates are very competitive. We offer the most economical terms as our tank leasing agent works with a variety of funding sources and we will customize a package most advantageous to you. For comparison, a steel tank with installation costing $100,000 could be as low as $1869 per month with a term of 60 months. Our leasing specialist will be able to provide details and price estimates based on current rates and the specifics of your project.

Our customers can lease a wide range of bolted steel storage tanks from 4,000 to 3,500,000 gallons and welded steel tanks up to 2,500,000 gallons. In addition to the price of the steel tank, the installation and other site work costs can be incorporated in the lease. Superior Tank Co., Inc. is a licensed General Contractor in several states and we can perform a wide scope of work under a single contract. Tanks under the leasing program can be used for storage of a variety of liquids including potable water, water for fire protection, rain water harvesting and wastewater.

The Federal Reserve is predicting two more rate increases in 2016 so lock in your lease rates NOW!

Superior Tank Co., Inc. Celebrates Texas Groundbreaking

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Superior Tank Co., Inc. (STCI) is proud to announce the ground breaking of our newest production facility in the State of Texas!

The new facility is an expansion of the existing Operation Center just outside of Houston in Rosenberg which currently serves as a base for the company’s Gulf Coast and East Coast tank installation and service teams. The factory will be dedicated to the production of bolted steel and welded steel storage tanks.

According to Huel Loden, Gulf Coast Regional Manager, “developing a manufacturing facility in Texas is the final piece of the puzzle” allowing STCI to better position itself for future growth in both the domestic and global market place. He goes on to say, the Marquez family, owners of STCI, understand that the key to our success is lead by a top down culture where customer relations is the main focus which is why from the beginning STCI’s focus has always been customer service.

The Texas facility will supply a range of both bolted and welded steel tanks ranging in size from 4,000 gallons up to 3,500,000 gallons with a variety of finishes. Our bolted steel tanks will be available as factory powder coated, hot dipped galvanized and stainless steel. Our extensive experience and vast knowledge of the region ensures our tanks are manufactured and installed to meet the needs of the local market. STCI’s steel tanks are designed to comply with numerous industry standards such as American Water Works Association (AWWA), American Petroleum Institute (API), FM Approvals and National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA). In addition, the Rosenberg plant will be able to supply various tank parts and accessories from our more centralized location. Superior Tank has been doing business in Texas for over 20 years and is looking forward to continuing our focus on providing our customers with the best customer service possible.

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ISO 9001:2008 & API Q1 Spec for Steel Tanks

ISO 9001:2008 Re-certification

Recently Superior Tank Co., Inc. passed our annual re-certification audit for both the American Petroleum Institute (API) Q1 and ISO 9001:2008 certifications for design and manufacturing of bolted steel storage tanks. These prestigious certifications relate to above ground oil storage tanks and water storage tanks and are a result of years of hard work. The certifications reassure our customers they will receive the highest quality steel storage tank delivered on time.

During the annual audit, numerous aspects of our tank manufacturing process were reviewed including sales ordering, bolted steel tank production and ground storage tank installation. The audit team confirmed Superior Tank employs processes and procedures as specified by ISO 9001: 2008 QMS Certification. In addition to compliance with ISO 9001: 2008 QMS Certification, STCI has earned re-certification with American Petroleum Institute (API) Spec Q1. API Q1 Spec works in unison with the ISO 9001: 2008 QMS Certification and focuses on the API12B Standard and the accurate and responsible manufacturing of products used in the petrochemical industry.  The API Q1 Spec also includes additional elements of quality management systems such as risk assessment and risk management procedures which is critical for the petroleum industry and the focus on safety.

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Give Yourself Peace of Mind This Holiday Season

 
peace of mind with a bolted tank this holiday season
 
A new bolted or welded steel storage tank can give you a gift which keeps giving all year long; peace of mind knowing you are prepared. By adding supplementary water storage, you can rest easy in the knowledge your system will have sufficient water supply when it is needed.
 
Installing additional water storage tanks in remote and perimeter areas can help you get ready for fire season. Having abundant water supply readily available can save precious time and make a huge difference when a fire or disaster occurs. Besides water storage for fire protection, bolted and welded steel tanks are used for redundant water supply when other storage tanks need to be taken offline for maintenance or repair. Extra storage capacity also reduces the chance of running out of potable water in event of a line rupture or natural disaster.
 

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Have You Seen A.R.T.?


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Manufacturing Bolted Steel Tank videos

As bolted steel and welded steel tanks have evolved over the last 50 years, so has the technology and machinery used to manufacture the tanks. Superior Tank currently uses numerous advanced pieces of equipment including A.R.T. (Automated Robotic Technology). A.R.T. is used in the Rancho Cucamonga manufacturing facility to precisely weld raw materials together to form various tank components.

A.R.T. is a 300lb robot featuring 6 axis of articulation allowing A.R.T. to accurately weld joints in even hard to reach areas. All aspects of the welding process including power, wire, speed and angle of approach are regulated by the computer for extreme consistency and 100% accurate welds. In addition to the accuracy and strength of the welds, the seams are also smoother allowing for better coating coverage and corrosion protection. As errors and weak areas are eliminated, fewer parts are rejected and material waste is minimized.

A.R.T. is used for a variety of tank parts and accessories used with steel water and oil tanks. For example, tank nozzles, flanges, manways and piping are welded together in the factory. When these components are used with bolted tanks, the parts are powder coated then shipped with the tank kit to the installation site. For welded steel tank use, the parts are field coated after being installed onsite.

A.R.T. and other technologically advanced equipment allows Superior Tank to custom fabricate numerous steel tank elements with unmatched precision.

Click here for more information on A.R.T and our manufacturing process!

Steel Storage Tank Parts & Accessories Available Direct!

 
Bolted Tank Parts and Accessories

Superior Tank Company Inc. provides numerous components and parts including structural components, safety apparatuses, tank appurtenances and tank operation equipment for welded steel storage tanks and bolted steel storage tanks.

We supply custom structural components to fit many different steel tanks. For welded steel tanks we can provide seismic anchors, roof rafters, center poles, gussets, steel patch plates for tank bottoms, roofs and shells. For bolted steel tanks we manufacture replacement staves, tank bottoms, roof sections, roof rafters, center poles, anchor chairs, gaskets and hardware. In addition to structural items, we also supply tank safety equipment such as interior ladders, exterior ladders, ladder enclosures, Saf-T-Climb fall protection systems, tank platforms/bridges and spiral staircases. Superior Tank can provide new parts such as uni-tank flanges, cast iron flanges, nozzles, hinged or unhinged shell manways, cone deck manways or roof hatches. We also offer other general tank accessories including new or replacement weir boxes, manway cover davit arms, standard or frost free roof vents, full or half travel liquid level indicators, sample tap level gauges and multi-line sample boxes.

Most tank parts and accessories are available in several finishes and materials including durable factory powder coating, hot dipped galvanized, unfinished carbon steel or stainless steel. Our State of the Art facility allows us to precision manufacture OEM and custom parts to exact specifications. Our parts and components are specifically designed for various applications such as potable water storage, storage of water for fire protection, wastewater storage and oil storage. All parts and accessories Superior Tank manufactures and sells meet the latest standards for the relevant tank design such as AWWA D103, AWWA D100, NFPA, API as well as OSHA.

When new or replacement steel tank parts or equipment are needed, Superior Tank can help!

Please visit our parts page for a full menu of parts we offer:

STCI Installs Bolted Steel Tank for Fire Protection

 

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In late 2014, Kiewit Construction awarded Superior Tank Company Inc. the contract to manufacture and install a water storage tank as part of a large rail operations center. The facility is part of the $486,000,000 Metro Gold Line Foothill Extension project located in Southern California, and includes 11.5 miles of light rail track as well as an operations and maintenance facility.

The bolted steel tank is part of the Sentinel series of fire protection tanks manufactured by Superior Tank Company Inc. The Sentinel steel tank for the project was engineered to the specific requirements of the project and was designed to store 600,000 gallons of water for fire protection.  The tank meets AWWA D103 standards and applicable local building codes.  In addition, the tank includes special features and complies with NFPA 22 standards to ensure the tank operates properly for fire suppression.  As the tank is considered essential for post-earthquake recovery and is essential to the life, health and safety of the public including post-earthquake fire suppression, the tank was designed to Seismic Use Group III and Risk Category IV standards. This Seismic Use Group is the most stringent and requires seismic design loads be increased 50%.

The exterior powder coating on this Sentinel tank is a custom color to match the other structures on the site and Superior Tank Company Inc. manufactures tanks in a wide variety of standard and custom colors. The high gloss powder coating was applied at the factory using specialized equipment and is expressly formulated for maximum UV resistance.  For exceptional corrosion resistance, encapsulated nuts and bolts were used throughout the tank.

The steel tank was installed by the Superior Tank field team and erection took only twelve days. As other elements of the project were occurring simultaneously, Superior Tank had to coordinate the Sentinel tank installation with the general contractor to eliminate scheduling conflicts.  As only basic assembly work was required on the job site, local traffic and site disruption was minimized.
 
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