Monolithic Tanks — The 25,000 barrel insulated concrete oil tank depicted here is approximately 78 feet in diameter and 58 feet high. (1 barrel = 42 gallons)

Monolithic Tanks — The 25,000 barrel insulated concrete oil tank depicted here is approximately 78 feet in diameter and 58 feet high. (1 barrel = 42 gallons)

Monolithic Oil Tanks – Water Tanks – Ethanol Tanks – Other Liquids

David B. South • Published • Monolithic Dome Bulk Storage

Oil Tanks – the new and different

Monolithic Oil Tanks now are more competitive than ever. They are constructed of concrete, not steel. Consequently, the much higher price of steel and the use of high-strength, post tension cables now allow Monolithic Tanks to be less costly.

Additional benefits of Monolithic Tanks:

  • They do not rust.
  • They have a lifespan measured in centuries.
  • They cannot be burned. That fire-resistant ability provides protection for plant workers and nearby residents.
  • They are sturdy and cannot blow away in a storm. That provides environmental protection.

A Monolithic Tank that has the capacity to store 250,000 barrels (10.5 million gallons) of oil sells for approximately $5 million (2007 price).

Coating and insulation

New chemical coatings are key. One of these coatings is polyurea – more popularly known as a pickup truck bed-liner, such as Rhino or Sharkskin. Many of the formulations for such coatings are totally impervious to attack by most chemicals.

Some vegetable oils and some crude oils must be stored warm so that they remain pump-able. The Monolithic Oil Tank’s polyurethane foam insulation makes it an ideal warm-oil storage structure.

Water Tanks

For nearly thirty years, Monolithic has known how to build concrete water tanks. Our Airformed concrete water tank has many advantages; a primary one is price. Simply put, Monolithic Water Tanks are superior products that cost less.

Dr. Wilson, Monolithic’s senior consulting engineer, has always encouraged us to build water tanks. He has proved that they are viable and cost-efficient. We are now expanding our market to include tanks.

Note: We value your comments and suggestions. Please email me at [email protected]

May 14, 2008

Tank’s Layers — This cutaway shows the tank’s layers from the inside out: Polyurea; primer; concrete; urethane foam insulation; Airform on the exterior.

Tank’s Layers — This cutaway shows the tank’s layers from the inside out: Polyurea; primer; concrete; urethane foam insulation; Airform on the exterior.