8 Benefits of Steel Storage Tanks

At the Blake Group in Edinburgh, we specialise in designing and manufacturing a wide range of steel storage tanks. Our tanks can be used for storing all types of liquids safely and securely, including oil, fuel and water.

Here are our 8 top reasons why we believe steel is the best material for storage tanks.

1. Durability & Longevity

A steel tank is strong and robust and will require very little maintenance, lasting far longer than a plastic tank. Damage to a steel tank can be easily repaired, whereas a plastic tank is often unusable once damaged.

2. Environmentally Friendly

It is good to know that a steel tank is an environmentally-friendly choice. Steel is 100% recyclable and often made from salvaged scrap, greatly reducing its environmental footprint. Another reason it is environmentally friendly is that steel is hard to damage, reducing the risk of a leak into the surrounding environment. A damaged plastic tank will fail catastrophically, whereas a steel tank will not, allowing valuable time to prevent any pollution from spreading.

If you are environmentally conscious then you don't want to be adding more plastic to this world, where possible. Instead, choose a long-lasting option that does not harm the environment and can be made from recycled steel scrap.

3. Security

Unfortunately, with the rise in the cost of fuel, it has become a target for theft. Thieves will always steal from the easiest and quickest option so tend to target plastic tanks. A well-designed fuel oil storage tank is very difficult to break into due to the thickness and strength of the material so can save you money in the long run. Steel tanks are also less likely to be damaged by vandalism.

4. Aesthetics

A steel storage tank is not only long-lasting and highly durable but can look great too. With a wide range of colours and paint finishes, your steel tank will look new for many years.

5. Customisation

At the Blake Group, we design our tanks to meet the specific requirements of the client. They will be made to the exact size specified in the shape required, including cylindrical, cuboid, or even a non-standard shape. Steel is ideal for manufacturing into any shape and size. If you opt for a plastic tank you will find that it is mass-produced in set dimensions and colours. A steel tank can also accommodate additional fittings.

6. Cost

With steel requiring very little maintenance and having such a long lifespan, the cost over the life of the tank is often actually lower than that of other materials such as plastic.

7. Temperature

Steel is unaffected by temperature fluctuations so is perfect for outdoor use and this helps protect the contents. A plastic tank that is subjected to heat or cold causes stresses on the material which, over time, can cause it to fail.

8. Size

A steel tank is generally smaller than the equivalent capacity of plastic tanks due to the complex profiles required for plastic tanks. As land is expensive you want to store your fuel or oil in a tank that takes up as little space as possible.