Fiberglass reinforced tanks have become a staple on many different job sites, especially those faced with extreme temperatures. Though originally designed for smaller-scale engineering projects, FRP tanks and products have exploded onto the construction, mining, wastewater and oil and gas industry scene and have become a go-to for many companies looking for a non-corrosive, long-lasting storage solution. But how do FRP tanks fare against extremely cold weather that some industries face in some of the most bitter climates?
Cold vs. Other Materials
Extreme cold weather has forever been an issue for materials such as steel, wood and concrete. When faced with bitter cold, wood fibers will contract which can subsequently cause the structural foundations to crack and distort. Steel will become brittle in severe temperatures and concrete will degrade at around -60°C. Though concrete can withstand the bite of lower temperatures, it will still suffer degradation when exposed. Steel is more impervious to the intense thermodynamic conditions of arctic-like weather but is still vulnerable to corrosion and mechanical deterioration. Steel has a very high rate of thermal conductivity, meaning that architectural components such as handrails and ladders become dangerous to the point of causing cold damage when touched. FRP on the other hand is not thermally conductive and therefore lowers the risk of cold damage drastically.
Cold vs. FRP
When you’re working in arctic conditions, you want to know that the tanks you maintain and use are up to the challenge. The structural components paired with its noncorrosive makeup have FRP leading the game in cold-resistant materials, making it an ideal choice for storage tanks in undesirable environments. Resin that will meet the demand of cold weather is used alongside crushed fiberglass reinforced plastic, constructed in many, many layers to create strength and durability in the tank. An FRP tank will long outlast its competitors because of its low maintenance requirements and resistance to the elements and some tanks are still going strong some 40 years later. In addition, the customizable applications make an FRP tank an easy “yes” for many storage needs on-site.
Wherever your job site happens to be, you can trust that FRP Manufacturing Inc. will supply you with the best products to meet any cold-weather challenge. From the northernmost slopes of Alaska to the backwoods of Alberta, our products are sure to perform in even the most immaculate of weather. Get in touch with us for a quote today and let’s make sure you’re prepared for any potential cold snaps this winter!
