Building Tanks to Withstand Snow Loads and Environmental Forces: Restraints, Tie-Downs, and Structural Integrity

November 5, 2024|
Assmann Corporation

When it comes to chemical storage, the structural integrity of tanks is critical—especially in regions subject to harsh environmental forces like heavy snowfalls and strong winds. Facility managers, engineers, and chemical storage specialists must ensure that their tanks can withstand these conditions while safeguarding valuable materials inside. Assmann Corporation has designed their tanks with these challenges in mind, providing solutions that balance durability, safety, and longevity, even in the most demanding climates.

Engineering for Environmental Stress
The first line of defense for any chemical storage tank is its ability to resist environmental forces. One of the primary concerns is snow load—particularly in areas that experience long winters and frequent snowstorms. Prolonged accumulation of heavy snow places substantial stress on a tank’s roof and walls, which can lead to structural damage or, in extreme cases, collapse. This risk is further exacerbated by fluctuating temperatures, which can cause snow and ice to melt and refreeze, creating additional pressure points on tank surfaces.

To counteract these challenges, Assmann tanks are engineered using a rotational molding process that results in seamless, uniformly thick walls. Unlike tapered or thin-walled tanks, Assmann’s Uniform Wall Tanks are designed to distribute stress more evenly, reducing the likelihood of weak spots. This meticulous manufacturing process also eliminates the stress that can occur in tanks made using faster, high-pressure methods. Instead, Assmann focuses on quality over speed, ensuring that each tank can stand up to environmental stresses without compromising its structural integrity.

The Role of Restraints and Tie-Downs
In addition to superior tank construction, proper restraints and tie-downs are essential for ensuring the tank remains secure during extreme weather events. High winds, for example, can cause unanchored tanks to shift or tip, leading to catastrophic spills or even tank rupture. Assmann provides tailored solutions for securing tanks, including restraint systems and tie-downs that are specifically designed to keep tanks stationary, even in the face of hurricane-force winds or heavy snowstorms.

Properly installed tie-downs prevent the tank from being lifted or moved by external forces, while restraint systems ensure that lateral or vertical movement is minimized. For facility managers, ensuring that these safety measures are in place is a critical step toward protecting both the tank and its surroundings. Neglecting to properly secure a tank not only endangers the structural integrity of the storage system but also poses serious safety risks for the facility and its personnel.

Durability Through Design
Assmann tanks are ISO-certified and have maintained this standard since 1997, reflecting the company’s commitment to quality and performance. By taking a deliberate, carefully controlled approach to the manufacturing process, Assmann produces tanks that are stress-free and capable of withstanding the rigors of extreme weather conditions. This attention to detail also extends to the accessories and equipment that accompany the tanks, ensuring that every component—from the tank walls to the restraint systems—is built to last.

For those managing chemical storage in areas prone to harsh winters or strong winds, Assmann’s tanks provide peace of mind. The durability of these tanks helps protect the integrity of stored materials, reduces the risk of costly repairs, and ensures a longer lifespan for the entire system.

Why Choose Assmann?
Assmann’s tanks aren’t just designed to withstand the elements—they are built to outlast the competition. By combining a slow, meticulous molding process with superior materials and thoughtful design, Assmann offers a storage solution that remains reliable even in the most challenging conditions. When you need a chemical storage tank that can stand up to heavy snow loads, fierce winds, and fluctuating temperatures, Assmann’s tanks deliver unmatched performance and durability.

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About Assmann

Since 1980, Assmann tanks have been created with a controlled process that guarantees quality. We manufacture double-wall, vertical, conical bottom, cylindrical horizontal, free-standing horizontal leg, and open top storage tanks. Additionally, a large assortment of containment basins are available based on application to be used.

When customers need polyethylene tanks custom-made to fit within a particular space, we are able to design, engineer, and manufacture to the most exacting standards and specifications. If you need above ground chemical storage tanks, contact us for a quote.