Scale Inhibitor Tanks

Why Scale Inhibitor Tank Systems Matter

A scale inhibitor program is only as reliable as its storage and feed system. Tank system problems can cause:

• Underdosing → scale buildup, heat-rate loss, and equipment damage

• Overdosing → chemical waste and potential process issues

• Leaks → slip hazards, corrosion of surrounding infrastructure, and cleanup risk

• Plugged or failed feed equipment → unstable treatment and downtime

A well-installed tank system supports consistent dosing and predictable performance.

Key Design Considerations for Scale Inhibitor Tanks

1) Chemical Compatibility (Tank + Components)

Scale inhibitors vary by chemistry (often proprietary blends). The tank system must be compatible with:

• The inhibitor formulation and concentration

• Temperature conditions (including outdoor exposure)

• Long-term storage duration

Compatibility should cover the full system, including:

• Tank material

• Gaskets, seals, and fittings

• Tubing/piping and valves

• Pump materials and wetted parts

2) Secondary Containment and Spill Control

Even “non-hazardous” treatment chemicals can create safety and housekeeping issues if spilled. Secondary containment helps:

• Control leaks and overfills

• Protect nearby equipment and concrete

• Improve inspection readiness and cleanup efficiency

Typical containment options include:

• Curbed pads or containment basins

• Lined/coated containment areas for chemical resistance

• Controlled drainage and collection points (as designed)

3) Tank Placement, Access, and Maintainability

Scale inhibitor tanks require regular refill, inspection, and servicing. Good installations include:

• Safe access for tote/drum transfer or bulk delivery

• Clear space for maintenance on pumps and controls

• Proper labeling, signage, and housekeeping zones

• Protection from vehicle impact and operational traffic

4) Venting and Overfill Protection

Many tanks require venting and an overflow strategy. Best practice planning includes:

• Proper vent routing (where applicable)

• Overflow containment and controlled discharge strategy

• Level indication and alarm readiness (as specified)

5) Foundation, Supports, and Drainage Control

Even small chemical tanks can fail early if they’re set on poor foundations or exposed to standing water:

• Level, stable support surfaces

• Drainage that prevents ponding around the base

• Protection of anchors and nearby steel from corrosion

Common Scale Inhibitor Tank Project Types

New tank installation or replacement

Often driven by expansion, aging tanks, or treatment program upgrades.

Typical scope includes:

• Foundation readiness and tank setting

• Tie-in support to dosing skids and injection points

• Containment installation or upgrades

• Access improvements for safer refills and maintenance

Containment upgrades and area improvements

Common work includes:

• Repairing cracked containment slabs or curbing

• Applying chemical-resistant coatings/liners

• Improving drainage and spill collection strategy

• Adding barriers/guards to protect tanks from impact

Corrosion protection for surrounding infrastructure

Even if the inhibitor is not highly corrosive, frequent splashes/leaks can degrade adjacent steel and anchors. Coatings and corrosion protection help extend area life.

Outage/shutdown tie-ins

Some dosing system tie-ins are best executed during planned windows especially when they connect to critical process water systems.

How Bunney’s Inc. Supports Scale Inhibitor Tank Projects

Scale inhibitor tank systems are often installed in tight utility areas and must be clean, organized, and maintainable. Bunney’s Inc. supports these projects with disciplined field execution and reliability-focused construction support.

Our support services include:

• Industrial construction services for tank installation, modifications, and site improvements

• Precision positioning for accurate setting, fit-up, and access clearances

• Concrete secondary containment construction and repair for spill control and durability

• Protective coatings and corrosion protection to extend structural life in chemical areas

• Outage support services for schedule-critical tie-ins and cutovers

• Safety-first execution aligned with site permits and controlled work zones

Best Practices for Long-Term Scale Inhibitor Tank Reliability

Facilities typically get better results when they:

1. Verify compatibility for tank + pumps + tubing + fittings

2. Maintain containment integrity (cracks, joints, penetrations sealed)

3. Keep tank areas clean and organized to spot small leaks early

4. Protect tanks from impact and traffic exposure

5. Plan tie-ins carefully to avoid interrupting treatment performance

Conclusion: Keep Water Systems Protected Contact Bunney’s Inc.

Scale inhibitor tanks are small assets with big impact supporting water system efficiency, membrane performance, and equipment protection. Whether you’re installing a new inhibitor tank, upgrading containment, improving corrosion protection, or planning outage tie-ins, Bunney’s Inc. is ready to support your project with safe, schedule-driven execution.

Contact Bunney’s Inc. today to discuss your scale inhibitor tank scope and how we can help deliver a cleaner, more reliable chemical dosing system.