Editorial Technical Reference

Tank Structure

This page explains how Tank Structure is classified within Other Transport Equipment Manufacturing. Technical values and manufacturer relationships are research references; confirm the current specification and supplier evidence for each order.

Technical Definition & Core Assembly

The structural framework and containment system of ballast tanks in marine vessels.

Product Specifications

Technical details and manufacturing context for Tank Structure

Definition
The tank structure refers to the engineered framework, walls, and containment system that forms the physical boundaries of ballast tanks in ships and other marine vessels. It is designed to withstand hydrostatic pressure, contain ballast water, and maintain structural integrity under various loading conditions during vessel operations. The structure typically consists of marine-grade steel plates and stiffeners, welded together to form a watertight enclosure. It includes internal bulkheads, webs, and brackets that distribute loads and prevent buckling. The tank structure interfaces with the vessel's hull, piping systems, and access hatches, ensuring proper integration and maintenance access. Design parameters such as design pressure (1.0–1.6 MPa), design temperature (-10 to 60 °C), capacity (50–500 m³), wall thickness (8–25 mm per GB 150), and corrosion allowance (1.5–3.0 mm per ISO 12944) are specified to meet operational requirements. Material grades range from Q235B to Q345R (per GB/T 3274), with tolerances on diameter and height of ±0.5% and ±0.3% (per ISO 2768-m), respectively. Surface roughness is Ra 3.2–6.3 µm (per ISO 1302), and leakage rate is ≤0.1 mL/min at 1.1× design pressure. Hydrostatic test pressure is 1.5 MPa (held for 30 min). Weight ranges from 2 to 20 t depending on capacity and material. These values are reference ranges and must be verified for the specific model and application with the legal manufacturer or supplier. The tank structure is a critical component for vessel stability and safety, and its design must comply with applicable classification society rules and international conventions.
Working Principle
The tank structure provides a sealed, pressure-resistant enclosure for ballast water storage. It transfers hydrostatic and dynamic loads to the vessel's hull structure while preventing water leakage and maintaining the vessel's stability and trim through controlled ballast water management. The structure's walls and stiffeners are designed to resist internal pressure and external loads, ensuring structural integrity under various sea conditions. Proper design and maintenance are essential to prevent corrosion, fatigue, and failure.
Common Materials
Marine-grade steel
Technical Parameters
ParameterTypical rangeNotes & selection driver
Design Temperature-10–60 °COutside range material properties degrade
Capacity50–500 m³Custom sizes available
Wall Thickness8–25 mmCorrosion allowance includedGB 150
Corrosion Allowance1.5–3.0 mmHigher for aggressive environmentsISO 12944
Material GradeQ235B–Q345RHigher grade for low temperatureGB/T 3274
Tolerance on Diameter±0.5 %Ensures fit with pipingISO 2768-m
Tolerance on Height±0.3 %Ensures alignmentISO 2768-m
Surface RoughnessRa 3.2–6.3 µmSmoother for hygienic applicationsISO 1302
Leakage Rate≤0.1 mL/minAt 1.1× design pressure
Weight2–20 tDepends on capacity and material
Hydrostatic Test Pressure1.5 MPaHeld for 30 min

Ranges are indicative industry figures for RFQ preparation, not a supplier commitment. Confirm every value and standard with the legal manufacturer before ordering.

Components / BOM
  • Tank Shell Plates Part
    Forms the primary containment walls of the tank
    Material: Marine-grade steel
  • Stiffeners Part
    Provides structural reinforcement against hydrostatic pressure
    Material: Steel profiles
  • Welded Joints Part
    Connects structural elements and ensures watertight integrity
    Material: Welding consumables

Application & selection

Application Fit & Sizing Matrix

Operational Limits
pressure: 0 to 0.5 bar (gauge)
flow rate: N/A (static containment)
temperature: -20°C to 80°C
slurry concentration: Up to 60% solids by weight
Media Compatibility
✓ seawater ✓ freshwater ✓ ballast sediment slurry
Unsuitable: hydrochloric acid (corrosive to structural steel)
Sizing Data Required
  • Required ballast volume (m³)
  • Vessel displacement and stability requirements
  • Structural load capacity of tank supports

Risk, maintenance & compliance

Reliability & Engineering Risk Analysis

Failure Mode & Root Cause
Corrosion (Internal/External)
Cause: Chemical attack from stored contents (e.g., acids, salts) or atmospheric exposure leading to wall thinning, pitting, or stress corrosion cracking, often accelerated by moisture, temperature, or coating breakdown.
Structural Fatigue or Cracking
Cause: Cyclic loading from thermal expansion/contraction, pressure fluctuations, or mechanical vibrations, leading to crack initiation and propagation at weld seams, nozzles, or base plate connections.
Maintenance Indicators
  • Visible leaks, weeping, or bulging on tank walls or seams, indicating material failure or overpressure.
  • Abnormal audible sounds like cracking, popping, or hissing, suggesting structural stress, corrosion activity, or pressure release.
Engineering Tips
  • Implement regular non-destructive testing (NDT) such as ultrasonic thickness gauging and visual inspections to monitor corrosion rates and detect early-stage defects.
  • Ensure proper cathodic protection and maintain protective coatings to prevent corrosion, and control operational parameters (e.g., temperature, pressure) within design limits to reduce stress cycles.

Indicative industry ranges for design and RFQ preparation. Confirm the exact figures and applicable standard with the manufacturer before specifying.

Compliance & Manufacturing Standards

Applicable Standards
ANSI/ASME BPV Code Section VIII: Rules for Construction of Pressure Vessels DIN 28018: Vertical cylindrical steel tanks for the storage of liquids above ground - General principles

Quoted from the published standard.

Manufacturing Precision
  • Wall thickness: +/-5% of nominal thickness
  • Circularity: Maximum deviation of 1% of nominal diameter
Quality Inspection
  • Hydrostatic Pressure Test
  • Ultrasonic Thickness Testing
Technical documentation
Request current drawings, revision history, and a signed specification sheet.
Manufacturing capability
Verify equipment lists, process limits, capacity, and representative production evidence.
Inspection readiness
Confirm test methods, calibrated equipment, sampling plans, and traceable reports.
Supplier transparency
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Manufacturers of Tank Structure

2 companies list this product among what they make. Company figures are quoted from each company's own website; every card states where the relationship came from.

Huili Water Tank
Shandong, CN
Listed on the company's own website · profile compiled by CNFX from public sources
Listed there as: “HDG water tank structure”
View source page ↗ hltankchina.com · recorded 2026-08-26
Pipeco (Taizhou) Imp & Exp Co., Ltd.
Taizhou, Zhejiang, CN
Also makes: Water Tank
Listed on the company's own website · profile compiled by CNFX from public sources
Listed there as: “GRP Water Tank Structure”
View source page ↗ pipeco.cn · recorded 2026-09-14

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Frequently Asked Questions

What materials are used for the tank structure?

The tank structure is typically made of marine-grade steel, with material grades ranging from Q235B to Q345R as per GB/T 3274. The specific grade depends on design temperature and strength requirements.

What design pressure and temperature ranges are typical?

The design pressure is typically 1.0–1.6 MPa, and the design temperature range is -10 to 60 °C. These values are reference ranges and must be confirmed for the specific application.

How is the tank structure tested for leakage?

Leakage rate is tested at 1.1 times the design pressure, with a maximum allowable leakage of 0.1 mL/min. Additionally, a hydrostatic test at 1.5 MPa is performed for 30 minutes.

What are the typical wall thickness and corrosion allowance?

Wall thickness ranges from 8 to 25 mm (per GB 150), and corrosion allowance is 1.5 to 3.0 mm (per ISO 12944). These values depend on capacity, pressure, and environmental conditions.

Related equipment

Applied To / Applications

This component is essential for the following industrial systems and equipment:

Industry Taxonomies & Aliases

Commonly used trade names and technical identifiers for Tank Structure.

Data Basis

Editorial classification, named public sources where available, and source-reviewed manufacturer records.

Preliminary Technical Classification
This page supports structured research, RFQ preparation, and supplier evaluation. It does not replace buyer-led supplier qualification, standards review, or technical approval.

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