Tank Lining Innovations for the Food and Beverage Industry

Overcoming Complex (and Costly) Challenges

Tank linings are designed to meet the unique needs of each product, considering factors like acidity, temperature and viscosity. By preventing leaks, contamination and other problems, these coatings can help reduce maintenance needs and prolong a tank’s service.

Linings also prevent the absorption of flavors and odors. By creating a smooth, non-porous surface that is easy to clean and sanitize, these coatings make sure products remain pure and uncontaminated. This helps reduce the risk of spoilage and other quality issues.

It is important to select the right type of lining for each specific application and ensure compatibility with particular products being stored. Proper maintenance and inspection procedures should also be followed to ensure that the lining and tank remain in good condition over time.

Main Factors to Consider for Lining

As the food and beverage industry continues to evolve, tank lining solutions have adapted to changing raw materials, economic climates and regulatory requirements. Linings offer practical, effective ways to meet the challenges of a dynamic and growing industry, but choosing the right one requires the consideration of several factors, including the type of product and a business’s specific conditions and needs.

• Compliance: For storage and transport tanks, it’s vital to select a coating that’s compliant with relevant regulations, such as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), NSF and U.S. Department of Agriculture requirements for food and beverage contact surfaces. Standards established by the FDA specifically outline the conditions under which certain types of polymers may be safely used in food-contact applications. FDA-approved linings are qualified for either indirect food contact for dry foods, direct contact for wet foods or a combination of the two.
  
• Chemical Resistance: It’s essential to establish that a lining can withstand exposure to the specific chemicals and ingredients used in a facility’s processes. The pH level and temperature of the substances in the tank should be considered, as well as potential exposure to acids, alkalis and solvents. If the lining is not resistant to these chemicals, it may deteriorate over time, leading to product contamination or leaks.
  
• Corrosion: If not lined correctly, or properly maintained, metal tanks may be prone to corrosion from the food or beverage being stored, which can weaken the tank’s structure and cause leaks.
• Temperature Changes: Extreme temperature changes can cause the tank lining to expand or contract, which can cause cracking or other damage to sub-optimal materials.
  
• Durability: The lining should be able to stand up to the stresses and abrasion that can occur during tank operation, including cleaning and sterilization processes. This will help to reduce maintenance requirements and prolong a lining’s lifespan.
  
• Application Method: Consider the ease of application, such as the use of a single-leg airless or plural-component sprayer – and the curing time that will be required for the lining. It’s also important to know if the lining requires a force cure or if it cures in ambient temperatures. Some materials may require more labor and downtime to apply than others, which can impact the cost and scheduling of the installation.
  
• Customization: Different products have different properties, and the linings must be specified accordingly. For example, acidic products such as vinegar require linings that are resistant to corrosion, while high-temperature products require linings that can withstand thermal expansion.
  
• Sustainability: Environmental aspects of linings are also important. For example, some lining materials help to reduce food waste, improve food safety and are recyclable or biodegradable. Formulations may also offer low levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) or be heavy metal-free. All of these factors reduce the lining’s impacts to the environment.
  
• Cost: While important, cost should not be the sole deciding factor. The total cost of ownership – including maintenance and replacement costs – should be factored in when determining the total value.
  
• Wear and Tear: Constant movement of food and beverage products in a tank can lead to cracking or peeling of the lining – which can also lead to contamination of the product. The flexibility and movement of the tanks or rails during transport have a huge impact in the maintenance and the lifecycle of the tank.
  
• Cleaning and Hygiene: Proper cleaning of a lining is critical to maintain the quality and safety of the product. However, it’s important to note the cleaning process can also damage the lining if not performed correctly. A lining can also improve the hygiene of a food or beverage tank by providing a smooth, non-porous surface that is easy to clean and disinfect. Appropriate coatings can stymie the accumulation of bacteria and other microorganisms on interior surfaces, which can otherwise cause contamination of the product.

Bottom Line

By taking into account several important factors, a food and beverage producer can ensure the selection of suitable and durable tank linings – which make following regulatory requirements, emphasizing sustainability, and making (and storing) safe, high-quality products easier and more affordable. Working with a trustworthy supplier can assist with selecting and installing the appropriate coating for any facility’s particular needs and goals to better serve its bottom line.