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Tank base systems for low temperature tanks | Owens Corning Insulation
Owens Corning

Thermal insulation tank base solutions for tanks operating at cold temperatures

Since the 1960's, tank builders worldwide have trusted FOAMGLAS® insulation as a core component in tank base insulation systems. Today, thousands of tanks are supported by FOAMGLAS® insulation systems.

In an application for a low temperature tank base, lack of compressive strength can result in an unacceptable settlement which may result in a loss of thermal insulating capacity, ground heaving and foundations being brought to temperatures that could result in major failures. In the case of uneven subsidence, rupture in the tank’s steel bottom could result in a subsequent loss of product.

A dedicated tank base insulation under your low temperature tank can help avoid excessive heat transfer, which could cause the support structure to freeze and create mechanical problems. It can also help protect the structural material against extreme temperatures. This requirement is important with liquefied gases, which are stored at such low temperatures that normal containment products can become brittle in direct contact.

storage tanks at refinery

FOAMGLAS® insulation has a long and successful track record of insulating above ground low temperature storage tanks in facilities worldwide.

We offer High Load Bearing (FOAMGLAS® HLB insulation) solutions for the base insulation of various types of low temperature tanks. (i.e. Ammonia, Propylene, Ethane, etc.)

Our HLB types are specially produced for tank base insulation applications and subjected to very stringent quality controls, corresponding to the risk associated with this application.

Ammonia tank base

Typical configuration for low temperature tank base applications:

  • Multi-layer system of FOAMGLAS® HLB insulation.
  • PITTCOURSE™ DPC interleaving membrane or other appropriate interleaving for the application temperature range.