Why Tank Linings and Coatings Matter

A properly selected and installed lining/coating system can:

• Prevent corrosion and extend tank service life

• Reduce leak risk and protect foundations/containment areas

• Improve safety by controlling deterioration and minimizing spill potential

• Lower lifecycle costs by reducing recurring repairs and rework

• Support compliance readiness where containment integrity is required

Common Applications for Tank Linings and Coatings

Tank linings and coatings are commonly used for:

• Fuel oil and diesel tanks (internal/external corrosion control, spill resistance)

• Fire water tanks (external corrosion protection; internal systems as required by design)

• Potable and service water tanks (water-contact approved systems as specified)

• Chemical storage tanks (corrosives, oxidizers, dosing systems compatibility-critical)

• Wastewater and industrial drainage tanks (chemical attack and microbial influence)

• Cooling tower basins and concrete containment (wet/chemical environments)

Types of Tank Lining and Coating Systems

Final selection should be made by engineering/specification based on the stored product, temperature, immersion conditions, and required service life.

Common system families include:

1) Epoxy-based systems

Often used for immersion service and corrosion protection when properly specified.

2) Vinyl ester linings

Typically selected for stronger chemical resistance in harsh services.

3) Polyurethane / polyurea systems

Frequently used where impact resistance and fast return-to-service windows are priorities (application conditions matter).

4) Cementitious or mineral-based linings

Often used in certain water and wastewater applications where cement-based protection is appropriate.

5) Specialty rubber linings or thermoplastic liners

Used for severe chemical services and abrasion-heavy applications (design- and chemical-specific).

Key Factors in Selecting the Right Lining/Coating

1) Chemical compatibility

The stored product (and any contaminants) drives selection. Concentration and temperature changes can dramatically alter aggressiveness.

2) Immersion vs. splash zone

Constant immersion requires different systems than intermittent exposure or external weathering.

3) Surface type: steel vs. concrete

Concrete often needs moisture-tolerant systems and crack/joint detailing; steel requires strong corrosion control and surface prep.

4) Abrasion and solids content

Slurries (lime, mineral solids, wastewater grit) may require abrasion-resistant linings.

5) Temperature and thermal cycling

Thermal movement can stress coatings and joints, especially in hot tanks or outdoor exposure.

6) Turnaround window

Some systems support faster cure times useful when outage time is limited.

Common Failure Points (and How to Prevent Them)

Poor surface preparation

Most coating failures trace back to surface prep. If the surface isn’t properly cleaned, profiled, and dry enough for the system, adhesion suffers.

Joints, seams, and penetrations

Nozzles, manways, weld seams, and concrete joints are high-risk areas that need careful detailing and inspection.

Moisture and substrate issues (especially concrete)

Moisture vapor drive and existing contamination can cause blistering or delamination if not addressed.

Mechanical damage

Improper maintenance practices, impact, or abrasion can damage linings especially in high-wear zones.

Typical Tank Lining and Coating Project Scope

A lining/coating project often includes:

• Condition assessment and surface preparation planning

• Surface prep support (abrasive blasting, grinding, cleaning, repairs)

• Crack/joint sealing and penetration detailing (for concrete)

• Coating/lining application and cure coordination

• Touch-up, repairs, and documentation support

• Return-to-service planning aligned with outage windows

How Bunney’s Inc. Supports Tank Lining and Coating Projects

Tank lining and coating work often happens in tight spaces, during shutdown windows, and around critical systems. Bunney’s Inc. supports these projects with field-ready execution that protects safety and schedule.

Our support services include:

• Industrial construction services supporting tank access, repairs, and modification readiness

• Containment rehabilitation (crack/joint repair, concrete repair, penetration detailing)

• Protective coatings and corrosion protection for tanks, supports, and surrounding structures

• Outage support services for shutdown coordination and schedule-critical execution

• Heavy handling and positioning support when tank components or accessories require controlled movement

Best Practices for Long-Life Performance

Facilities typically get the best outcomes when they:

1. Specify linings/coatings based on true chemical and temperature conditions

2. Prioritize surface preparation and verification (don’t rush prep)

3. Detail joints and penetrations as primary leak paths

4. Plan access and curing time into the outage schedule

5. Maintain coatings proactively before failures spread

Conclusion: Protect Your Tanks and Reduce Lifecycle Costs Contact Bunney’s Inc.

Tank linings and coatings are one of the smartest ways to extend asset life, prevent leaks, and reduce downtime especially in chemical, fuel, water, and process storage environments. Whether you need tank lining rehabilitation, containment coatings, corrosion protection, or outage-ready execution, Bunney’s Inc. is ready to support your project with safe, durable results.

Contact Bunney’s Inc. today to discuss your tank lining and coating scope, schedule, and the best path to long-term reliability.