Stainless tanks are industrial storage units used for the safe, hygienic, and long-lasting storage of substances in liquid, gas, or semi-fluid states. Made from high-alloy stainless steel, these tanks can be designed to meet both pressurized and non-pressurized usage needs.
The most preferred types of stainless steel include AISI 304, AISI 316, and AISI 316Ti. These materials can be safely used in different processes due to their corrosion resistance, hygienic surface structure, and high-temperature resistance. The reason they are particularly preferred in sectors such as food and beverage production, chemical and pharmaceutical industries, energy, and metal processing is due to these superior features.
One of the most important advantages of stainless tanks is their ability to preserve the physical and chemical properties of the products stored inside for a long time without deterioration. Their smooth inner surfaces prevent bacterial formation and provide easy cleanability. This feature is critically important in applications where food safety and hygiene standards are prominent.
Offering highly flexible solutions in terms of capacity, stainless tanks can be produced from 100 liters to 5000 liters and much higher volumes in special designs. They can be designed as horizontal, vertical, with legs, insulated, or double-walled according to the purpose of use. This variety makes them adaptable and long-lasting solutions for every sector.
In conclusion, stainless tanks are not just storage equipment but also a strategic infrastructure component that supports businesses' process safety, product quality, and sustainable production goals.
For a stainless tank to be safe, durable, and long-lasting, the use of quality materials alone is not sufficient. During the design phase, the characteristics of the process in which the tank will be used should be considered, and all engineering criteria should be planned correctly.
1. Operating Temperature and Pressure
The maximum temperature and pressure values to which the tank will be exposed determine both the body thickness and the strength of the weld seams. In pressurized systems, the design should be made in accordance with international standards (e.g., PED).
2. Tank Volume and Geometric Dimensions
Stainless tanks can be produced in different volumes from 100 liters to 5000 liters. The height, diameter, and wall ratio are critical in terms of the behavior of the fluid and heat transfer. Depending on the application need, horizontal or vertical positioning is preferred.
3. Material Selection
The most commonly used types of stainless steel are AISI 304, AISI 316, and AISI 316Ti. The correct alloy should be selected according to the chemical properties of the fluid to be stored. For example, AISI 316 is preferred in systems containing saltwater, while 316Ti may be more suitable for high-temperature applications.
4. Head Types
Different designs can be used for tank covers:
• Spherical head → Provides high pressure resistance.
• Ellipsoidal head → Offers balanced load distribution.
• Conical head → Ideal for easy discharge of fluid.
• Torispherical head → Provides mechanical strength and ease of cleaning.
5. Pipe Connections and Pressure Class
The sizes and pressure classes of connection points such as inlet-outlet nozzles, level indicators, discharge valves, and safety valves should be projected according to the requirements of the process to be used.
6. Environmental and Climatic Conditions
The environment where the tank will be installed also directly affects the design. Wind and snow load, earthquake risk, and ground characteristics should be considered, and the structural strength of the supporting legs and anchorage systems should be calculated.
Ekin Industrial offers custom design solutions for each customer by considering all these criteria. Thus, both safety and long-term performance are guaranteed.
The Effect of Temperature on Material Selection: How Do We Determine the Right Alloy?
In the design of stainless tanks, material selection is critically important for the safety and long-lasting performance of the system. One of the most determining factors in this selection is the temperature of the fluid. Because many fluids change their physical and chemical properties depending on the temperature. Incorrect material choice can cause the tank to corrode, deform, or lose its structural integrity, especially in high-temperature applications.
For example, products such as milk and fruit juice used in the food industry carry a risk of spoilage above certain temperature values; aggressive chemicals used in the chemical and pharmaceutical industries become more corrosive with increasing temperature. Therefore, the type of stainless steel to be used in tank production should be selected by considering the temperature range and chemical properties of the fluid.
There are differences in temperature resistance among stainless steel grades:
• AISI 304: Suitable for general use but shows limited performance in high-temperature and chlorine-containing environments.
• AISI 316: Offers high corrosion resistance in acidic and salty environments, preferred in seawater and chemical processes.
• AISI 316Ti: Provides extra resistance to high temperatures thanks to its titanium alloy and is long-lasting.
In addition, as the operating temperature increases, not only material selection but also wall thickness calculations should be reconsidered. Because high temperature reduces the yield strength of stainless steel, decreasing the tank's strength. Also, thermal expansion effects should be considered, and anchorage systems and insulation solutions should be designed accordingly.
Ekin Industrial determines the most suitable alloy and design combination for each project by analyzing the physical and chemical properties of the fluid in detail. Thus, it offers solutions that are both technically reliable and economically and sustainably viable.
Welding Quality and NDT: Critical Steps for Longevity and Safety
One of the most critical stages in the production of stainless tanks is the welding process that ensures the joining of the body sheets and head parts. For the tank to operate long-lasting, safely, and leak-proof, the welding quality must be flawless. Especially in tanks operating under pressure, the welding areas can become the weakest link of the system. Therefore, the welding process is not only a production step but also a fundamental element of risk control in engineering.
The main defects that can be seen in welds are:
• Hairline cracks → Although not visible to the eye, they can grow over time and cause leaks.
• Undercut → Causes material weakness at the edge of the weld.
• Porosity → Can cause cracks under pressure.
• Lack of fusion → Leads to incomplete integrity of the weld seam.
To eliminate these risks, welding processes must be checked with NDT (Non-Destructive Testing) methods. The most common methods include radiographic testing (RT), ultrasonic testing (UT), and penetrant testing (PT). Thanks to these controls, even the smallest defects under the surface can be detected and measures can be taken.
In addition, welding processes must be carried out in accordance with WPS (Welding Procedure Specification) and PQR (Procedure Qualification Record) documents. It is a critical requirement for welders to have internationally recognized certificates for production quality. All welding masters working within Ekin Industrial have BV (Bureau Veritas) certification and specialize in high-pressure/hygienic welding applications.
Finally, post-weld passivation and surface treatments increase the corrosion resistance of the welding areas and extend the life of the tank. Thus, the stainless tank provides safe and long-term use even in the most challenging conditions.
Capacity, Geometry, and Configurations
Stainless tanks can be produced in different capacities and geometric features according to the purpose of use. These tanks, which can be designed in a wide range from small-volume process tanks to large storage solutions, offer both flexibility and high engineering precision.
Capacity Solutions:
Stainless tanks are generally produced starting from 100 liters up to 5000 liters, but in special projects, this capacity can reach much higher values. Small-volume tanks are preferred in laboratories and pilot plants, while large-volume tanks are preferred in industrial storage and production lines.
Geometric Designs:
Tanks can be designed as horizontal or vertical, with legs, conical bottom, or insulated according to need. Horizontal tanks provide an advantage in facilities with limited height, while vertical tanks offer high-volume storage opportunities by occupying less space. Conical bottom tanks are preferred in processes where the fluid needs to be easily discharged.
Configurations:
According to the purpose of use, tanks can be produced as single-walled, double-walled, or insulated. Double-walled tanks, equipped with heating or cooling jackets, allow the process temperature to be kept constant. Insulated designs increase energy efficiency and reduce operating costs.
This variety makes stainless tanks a flexible solution that can adapt to every condition required by the process in different sectors such as food, chemical, energy, pharmaceutical, and metal industries.
Hygiene, Cleanability, and CIP Compatible Design
One of the most important advantages of stainless tanks is their hygienic structures and easy cleanability. Especially in tanks used in the food, beverage, and pharmaceutical industries, compliance with product safety and hygiene standards is a critical necessity.
The smooth surface structure of stainless steel prevents the formation of microorganisms and bacteria. This feature ensures that products are stored for a long time without spoiling or changing their chemical structure. Additionally, the corrosion-resistant surface allows the tank to remain long-lasting against cleaning processes with chemicals.
One of the most common methods used in modern production facilities to maintain hygiene is CIP (Clean-In-Place) systems. Stainless tanks are designed to be fully compatible with CIP, allowing cleaning processes to be performed quickly, safely, and automatically. This shortens production time, reduces labor costs, and maintains hygiene at the highest level.
Hygienic design criteria are not limited to food and pharmaceuticals. In the chemical and cosmetic sectors, it is also of great importance for tanks to be easily cleanable and safe against contamination, in terms of process continuity.
In conclusion, stainless tanks are an indispensable part of modern industrial processes not only because they are durable and long-lasting but also because of their hygiene and cleanability advantages.
Insulation, Energy Efficiency, and Operating Cost Impact
Insulation in stainless tanks not only maintains the temperature of the content but also has a direct impact on energy efficiency and operating costs. Especially in tanks used in hot water, steam, or chemical processes, heat losses can be minimized with a suitable insulation system.
The type of material used in insulated tanks (e.g., polyurethane, glass wool, or rock wool) and its thickness are determined according to the temperature range of the process. In this way, while the internal temperature is kept stable, energy losses caused by external factors are prevented. At the same time, insulation is also important for personnel safety; when high-temperature tank surfaces are covered with insulation, the risk of contact is eliminated.
Energy efficiency not only reduces production costs but also contributes to environmental sustainability goals. Less energy consumption means lower carbon emissions. In the long run, this situation allows businesses to gain advantages both economically and environmentally.
In the stainless tanks produced by Ekin Industrial, designs can be made with or without insulation according to customer needs. Thus, both the safety of the process and the energy savings of the business are guaranteed.
Standards and Certifications
The reliability and long-lasting performance of stainless tanks are guaranteed not only by material quality but also by compliance with national and international standards. Tanks used in industrial applications must meet certain regulations in both design and production processes.
The most common certifications and standards are:
• PED 2014/68/EU (Pressure Equipment Directive): Ensures compliance with European Union standards in tanks operating under pressure.
• CE Mark: A mandatory conformity mark for the free movement of products within the European Economic Area.
• ISO 9001 Quality Management System: Guarantees quality management and traceability in production processes.
• Food Compliance Certificates (FDA, EC 1935/2004): Certifies that tanks in contact with food comply with hygiene standards.
• Welder Certificates (BV, TÜV, etc.): Shows that welding processes are carried out by expert personnel according to international norms.
These certifications are not only a legal requirement but also a guarantee of trust, quality, and sustainability for businesses. Certified production increases the preference rate of tanks in both domestic and export projects.
Ekin Industrial produces all its stainless tanks in compliance with international standards and provides the necessary certifications completely according to customer requests. This approach provides both technical and commercial advantages to businesses.
Sectoral Usage Areas and Application Examples
Stainless tanks play a critical role in many industries due to their wide usage areas and flexible design features. It is possible to develop solutions specific to the needs of different sectors because they offer storage safety, hygiene, durability, and long-lasting performance.
Food and Beverage Industry
In the food and beverage sector, hygiene, product quality, and safety are the most basic requirements. Stainless tanks are one of the most suitable storage solutions to meet the needs of this sector. They are actively used in the production, processing, fermentation, and storage stages for dairy products, fruit juices, beer, syrup, oil, drinking water, and many other food products.
The smooth surface of stainless steel prevents the formation of microorganisms and bacteria. This extends the shelf life of products, preserves their quality, and ensures a safe production process. Additionally, their full compatibility with CIP (Clean-in-Place) systems allows cleaning and disinfection processes to be performed quickly, easily, and safely. This feature reduces labor costs and ensures continuity in production.
Stainless tanks used in the food industry are made from materials with food contact compliance certificates such as FDA, EC 1935/2004. Thus, while production is carried out in accordance with international standards, safe use is guaranteed in export projects as well.
Moreover, these tanks can be safely used in sensitive processes such as pasteurization, sterilization, and fermentation due to their resistance to high temperature and pressure. Thanks to insulated or double-walled designs, product temperature is maintained, energy efficiency is achieved, and process quality is increased.
In conclusion, stainless tanks are not only a storage tool in the food and beverage sector but also a strategic infrastructure component for hygiene, quality, and sustainable production.
Chemical, Petrochemical, and Pharmaceutical Industry
The chemical, petrochemical, and pharmaceutical industries have challenging working environments where aggressive chemicals are processed and high temperature and pressure conditions prevail. The storage equipment used in these sectors must be at the highest level in terms of both safety and durability. Stainless tanks are one of the most suitable solutions that meet these requirements.
The tanks used in these sectors are produced from special alloys (AISI 316, AISI 316Ti, titanium-alloyed stainless steel, etc.) to be highly resistant to acidic, basic, and corrosive chemicals. Thus, aggressive fluids can be safely stored for a long time, and process continuity is maintained.
In the pharmaceutical sector, compliance with GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices) and FDA standards is of great importance. The hygienic surfaces, easy-to-clean structure, and CIP compatibility of stainless tanks minimize the risk of contamination in pharmaceutical and biotechnology facilities. This feature plays a critical role, especially in applications requiring sterile production.
Furthermore, since the processes in these sectors operate under high temperature and pressure, special engineering calculations are made in the design of the tanks. Thanks to double-walled, insulated, or pressure-resistant configurations, both safety is ensured and energy efficiency is increased.
In conclusion, stainless tanks are not only a storage solution in the chemical, petrochemical, and pharmaceutical sectors but also an indispensable infrastructure element for process safety, product quality, and sustainable production.
Energy and Geothermal Systems
Energy production and heat management are among the most critical areas in today's industry in terms of efficiency and sustainability. Stainless tanks have become one of the fundamental components of the energy infrastructure by ensuring the safe and long-lasting storage of both hot water and steam in this field.
In cogeneration systems, the waste heat generated during energy production can be stored and reused through stainless tanks. This minimizes energy losses, reduces costs, and significantly increases system efficiency.
In geothermal energy applications, the durability of the tanks is even more important. The superior corrosion resistance of stainless steel provides a great advantage for storing fluids with high temperature, mineral density, and aggressive chemical properties. Alloys such as AISI 316 and 316Ti are preferred for long-lasting use in these challenging conditions.
Insulated and double-walled designs allow the temperature to be maintained for a long time. This feature not only increases energy efficiency but also contributes to environmental sustainability goals. Less energy consumption means lower carbon emissions and environmentally conscious production for businesses.
In conclusion, stainless tanks offer a reliable, durable, and environmentally friendly solution in energy plants, cogeneration facilities, and geothermal applications. With these features, they provide both economic advantages and
Automotive and Metal Industry
The automotive and metal processing industries are sectors that require continuous production, high precision, and durability. In these areas, the safe storage of various chemical liquids used in painting, coating, testing, and production processes is necessary. Stainless tanks meet this need in the most reliable way with their high durability and hygienic features.
In the automotive industry, the continuity of production lines is of great importance. Stainless tanks provide safe storage in paint lines, surface coating processes, cleaning liquids, and leak tests. Their structures resistant to high temperature and pressure contribute to the uninterrupted continuation of production processes. Additionally, their compact designs provide flexibility in factory layouts.
In the metal processing sector, corrosive chemicals such as acids, alkaline solutions, oils, and cooling liquids are intensively used. The superior resistance of stainless steel to corrosion allows these types of fluids to be safely stored for a long time. At the same time, the homogeneous heat distribution of the tanks helps maintain process quality consistently.
In conclusion, stainless tanks are not only storage equipment in the automotive and metal industries but also a critical infrastructure element for process stability, production continuity, and quality assurance.
Textile Industry
The textile industry consists of processes with high temperature and intensive chemical use, such as dyeing, finishing, washing, and drying. The safe and hygienic storage of water, dye solutions, and chemical substances used in these processes is of critical importance for both product quality and production continuity. Stainless tanks are one of the most suitable solutions for these needs.
Stainless tanks, which prevent bacterial formation thanks to their smooth inner surfaces, allow the fluids used in textile processes to be stored for a long time without altering their properties. Additionally, their high resistance to corrosion ensures the safe storage of acidic and basic chemicals.
Their structures providing homogeneous heat distribution support color consistency in dyeing and finishing processes, while their durable body designs offer reliable performance even under high pressure and temperature. This contributes to the uninterrupted operation of production lines and the reduction of operating costs.
In conclusion, stainless tanks are not only a storage solution in the textile industry but also an indispensable infrastructure element for efficiency, quality, and process safety.
Maritime and HVAC Systems
The maritime sector is one of the areas requiring special materials due to corrosive saltwater and challenging environmental conditions. Therefore, stainless tanks used on ships are generally made from AISI 316 or 316Ti alloys. Their high corrosion resistance ensures the safe storage of freshwater, fuel additives, and cooling liquids. Their durable structures provide long-lasting use and reduce maintenance costs. Additionally, welding quality and leak tests are carried out in accordance with maritime safety standards.
In HVAC systems, stainless tanks play a critical role in heating, cooling, domestic water, and expansion solutions in buildings. Thanks to insulated designs, energy losses are minimized, thus increasing energy efficiency and reducing operating costs. At the same time, their compact designs allow easy positioning in high-rise buildings or limited spaces.
In conclusion, stainless tanks are among the indispensable infrastructure components in both maritime and HVAC applications by offering reliability, durability, and energy efficiency.
In conclusion, stainless tanks provide reliable storage and process support in a very wide range from food safety to chemical processes, energy efficiency to maritime applications.
Advantages of Stainless Tanks: Corrosion Resistance, Hygiene, Durability, Sustainability
Stainless tanks are not only liquid or chemical storage equipment but also strategic solutions that provide businesses with long-term efficiency, safety, and sustainability. The main reasons they are preferred in many sectors due to their technical superiority are as follows:
High Corrosion Resistance
Tanks made from stainless steel material show high durability against acidic and basic fluids. Especially AISI 316 and 316Ti alloys offer superior performance against chlorine, salt, and aggressive chemicals.
Hygienic Surface Structure
Their smooth and easy-to-clean surfaces prevent the formation of bacteria and microorganisms. Thanks to CIP-compatible designs, cleaning processes are fast and safe. This feature is critically important for maintaining quality standards in the food and pharmaceutical sectors.
Long-Lasting and Durable Use
Stainless tanks can be safely used for decades with correct engineering calculations and regular maintenance. Their structures resistant to high pressure and temperature provide uninterrupted performance in industrial processes.
Low Maintenance Requirement
Thanks to their surface properties and structural robustness, they require minimal maintenance. This means both time and cost savings.
Environmentally Friendly and Sustainable Solution
Stainless steel is a 100% recyclable material. Its long-lasting structure contributes to the conservation of natural resources, reduces the carbon footprint, and supports sustainable production goals.
Aesthetic and Industrial Compatibility
Thanks to their modern appearance, they not only enhance the perception of hygiene in hotels, restaurants, and food production facilities but also provide aesthetic integrity.
In conclusion, stainless tanks have become an indispensable part of industrial facilities with their corrosion resistance, hygiene, durability, and sustainability features.
Ekin Industrial's Custom Design and Certified Solutions
Ekin Industrial not only offers standard solutions in stainless tank production but also develops the most suitable design for the need with engineering support specific to each project. With its experienced engineering team, certified welding masters, and modern production facilities, it produces reliable and long-lasting products tailored to the demands of different sectors.
The production range covers a wide capacity range from 100 liters to 5000 liters. If necessary, tank production can also be carried out at higher volumes for special projects. Production is carried out from AISI 304, AISI 316, and AISI 316Ti materials according to the purpose of use. Thus, special solutions are offered to many sectors such as food, chemical, pharmaceutical, energy, metal, maritime, and HVAC.
The privileges offered by Ekin Industrial include:
• Production in compliance with international standards (PED 2014/68/EU, CE, ISO 9001, etc.)
• FDA and food contact compliant material certificates
• Quality assurance with BV and TÜV approved welder certificates
• Insulated, double-walled, and process-specific designed tank solutions
• Pre-project engineering analysis and post-sales technical support
Each tank is meticulously tested during the production process. Pressure and leak tests, radiographic and ultrasonic weld inspections ensure quality assurance. Thus, not only a durable product is offered to the customer but also long-term safety and efficiency.
Ekin Industrial's approach is to see stainless tanks not only as storage equipment but as a strategic investment for the business.
Conclusion and Call: How to Choose the Right Tank for Your Project?
Stainless tanks are one of the indispensable equipment of modern industrial facilities. With their high corrosion resistance, hygienic structure, long-lasting use, and contribution to sustainable production understanding, they are not only a storage solution but also a strategic investment that increases the competitiveness of businesses.
To choose the right stainless tank, operating temperature, pressure values, the characteristics of the fluid to be stored, capacity needs, and environmental conditions should be considered. Additionally, the quality of the material used, the reliability of welding processes, and compliance with international certifications are critical factors for long-term performance.
Ekin Industrial offers its customers not only a product but an end-to-end engineering solution at this point. The entire process of needs analysis, design, material selection, production, testing, and certification is carried out meticulously. Thus, safe, durable, and sustainable stainless tank solutions are provided for every sector.
If you are looking for a reliable, hygienic, and certified stainless tank for your project, it's time to meet Ekin Industrial's expertise. You can contact us for the most suitable tank design for your needs and invest in both today and your future.