The difference between vertical and horizontal storage tanks

1. Basic Concepts and Applications

1. Definition and common types of vertical storage tanks Vertical storage tank refers to the storage tank placed vertically, mainly by the tank, support structure and head composition. Common types include cylindrical tanks, ellipsoidal tanks, and square containers. Vertical storage tank is widely used in oil, gas and chemical industry liquid storage, because of its vertical storage characteristics, reduce the tank and the ground contact surface, reduce the foundation bearing pressure.

2. Definition and common types of horizontal storage tanks Horizontal storage tank means that the storage tank is placed horizontally and is mainly supported by the tank body and multiple legs. The common types are cylindrical storage tanks, ellipsoidal storage tanks and double tank combination storage tanks. Horizontal storage tanks are often used to store large amounts of liquids such as petroleum and chemical raw materials. Due to their horizontal storage characteristics, larger foundations are usually required to bear the weight of the tank.

and performance characteristics

3. Performance characteristics of vertical storage tanks

• compact structure: The vertical storage tank occupies a small area due to its vertical placement, which is suitable for areas with limited space.
• Strong seismic performance: Due to the vertical structure, the vibration and impact caused by the tilt of the tank are reduced.
• easy maintenance: The top structure of the vertical storage tank is relatively simple, which is convenient for personnel access and equipment maintenance.
• strong adaptability: It can store a variety of liquids, but it is usually suitable for environments with relatively stable temperature and pressure.

4. Performance characteristics of horizontal storage tank

• large storage capacity: Horizontal tanks are usually larger in diameter and can store larger volumes.
• Good liquid stability: Horizontal storage reduces liquid evaporation and physical impact, suitable for storage of flammable and explosive liquids.
• High basic demand: Due to horizontal storage, horizontal storage tanks require a larger foundation to bear the weight of the tank.
• Low space utilization compared with vertical storage tanks, horizontal storage tanks occupy a larger space and need to be reasonably planned.

3. structure design and comparison of advantages and disadvantages

5. Structural design of vertical storage tank The vertical storage tank usually adopts cylindrical or ellipsoidal design, and the material is mostly stainless steel, carbon steel or structural steel. Its design focuses on strength and corrosion resistance, especially under high pressure and high temperature conditions.

6. Structural design of horizontal tank Horizontal tanks are mostly designed with double tank combination to improve storage capacity and stability. The tank body is usually made of corrosion-resistant materials and is equipped with an insulating layer to reduce energy consumption.

7. Comparative analysis of advantages and disadvantages

• vertical storage tank: The advantages are small footprint and convenient maintenance, but the disadvantage is that the scope of application is limited and it is easily affected by temperature and pressure fluctuations.
• Horizontal tank: The advantages are strong storage capacity and good stability, but the disadvantages are large footprint, complicated maintenance, and high cost.

4. Selection Suggestions and Application Scenarios

8. Demand-based tank selection.

• Properties of Liquid Storage: For flammable and explosive liquids, horizontal storage tanks are more suitable; for general liquids, vertical storage tanks are less expensive.
• Storage scale: Large-capacity storage is more suitable for horizontal storage tanks, while small-scale storage can give priority to vertical storage tanks.
• Site Restrictions: When the site is narrow, vertical storage tanks are better; when large storage capacity is required, horizontal storage tanks are a better choice.

Vertical storage tanks and horizontal storage tanks have their own applicable scenarios and characteristics. Choosing the right type of storage tank requires a comprehensive consideration of the nature of the stored liquid, storage scale, site conditions, and maintenance costs.