Should We Use a Steel or FRP Industrial Water Softener?

13 Jan.,2025

 

Should We Use a Steel or FRP Industrial Water Softener?

Should We Use a Steel or FRP Industrial Water Softener?

The first question you should ask yourself when deciding between an industrial steel water softener and a fiberglass reinforced polyester (FRP) water softener is &#;How critical are our water quality and industrial water softening needs?&#;

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For critical water quality requirements that rely upon softened water for the process, steel industrial water softeners are often the better choice. This is because steel water softeners typically have advantages in water softener size, durability, and configuration variety. That said, better industrial fiberglass or FRP water softener systems are also high-quality options that may have advantages where corrosion is a concern.

While you will want to make your final decision with an engineering consultation from Industrial Water Solutions, let&#;s take a closer look at the factors that will help you decide between industrial steel water softeners and industrial FRP water softeners.

Industrial Water Softener Tank Size

Industrial steel and fiberglass water softeners have some overlap in the size for which they can be configured. However, the industrial steel softeners come in bigger sizes and can process larger quantities of water. The industrial steel water softener systems can be configured to produce up to 5,000 gallons per minute (GPM) while the FRP fiberglass softeners can produce up to 1,000 GPM. Industrial Water Solutions offers free industrial water softener sizing calculators that will help you choose the correct industrial water softener.

Industrial Water Softener Longevity and Corrosion

Depending on the profile of the water supply that is being softened and the air quality in the softener room, a fiberglass-based system could be a good choice if corrosion is a concern. Steel can react to certain minerals, such as iron, but overall has more durability and longevity than fiberglass tanks.

Industrial Water Softener Durability

Though FRP tanks are often rated for 150 psi, they have a very minimal vacuum (or negative pressure) tolerance. Caution needs to be used if there are pumps following the softener tanks, such as with a reverse osmosis system or a booster pump system. These tanks can easily implode without vacuum breakers or if vacuum breakers malfunction.

Industrial Water Softener Configuration Flexibility

Because steel tanks are typically used for large, industrial facilities, they have more configuration options and can meet a wider range of needs. See our industrial steel water softener systems to learn about the options for industrial water softener configurations.

Industrial Water Softener MRG Series: A Good Compromise

The MRG series is an industrial water softener system that offers the possibility of using industrial characteristics from our steel softener systems and pairing them with fiberglass FRP tanks. This mixes the benefits of fiberglass (corrosion resistance) with the main benefits of steel tanks (configuration options, industrial controls, and redundancy).

Which Industrial Water Softener is Right for You?

There are many options for industrial water softeners for manufacturing, healthcare, hotels, and other demanding environments. With so many choices to make, you should consult an expert, independent water solutions company. Contact us at 800-820- or so we can create a cost-effective industrial water softener solution that is suited to your specific requirements. Also, see our commercial water softener options for less demanding requirements.

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Repair or Replace? With FRP Tank Linings, there's no ...

Maintaining water tanks is essential for efficient operations, ensuring the reliability and longevity of your infrastructure, no matter your sector. Over time, tanks can suffer from issues such as corrosion, leaks, and structural deterioration, which can lead to significant operational disruptions and costly repairs.

Tanks made from materials such as steel and concrete are prone to corrosion, especially when exposed to harsh environmental conditions. Additionally, cracks and failed joints can lead to leaks, wasting valuable resources and posing safety and environmental risks. Over time, the structural integrity of tanks can weaken, leading to potential failures and operational disruptions, which can adversely affect vital business operations and other infrastructure elements.

At this point, it is often perceived that the only solution is to replace the tank completely, a process that can be very costly and involve considerable downtime for the business. In fact, repairing the tank often isn&#;t even considered an option!

Could FRP linings be the answer?

FRP linings offer a practical and robust solution to these challenges. By creating a seamless and durable inner layer, FRP linings protect tanks from various forms of damage and extend their lifespan.

At Sui Generis we&#;ve specialised in FRP solutions for over two decades, including bespoke FRP linings for water tanks, and there are countless reasons why we champion this solution. From repairing a portable water tank with restricted access at a college campus through to refurbishing the lining of a semi-submerged cooling tower basin, FRP tank lining is as adaptable as it is versatile, providing an effective solution for many different applications.

A Long-lasting, Cost Effective Alternative

FRP linings can be tailored to meet specific requirements and provide a cost-effective alternative to replacing entire water tanks. Creating a seamless, corrosion-proof, and chemical-resistant barrier within existing tanks, this added protection guards against cracks, leaks, and erosion, ensuring tanks remain impact-resistant and easy to clean for many years.

Refurbishment can cost as little as 20% of a full replacement, saving significant expenses and ensuring tanks are back in service quickly with minimal downtime. Plus, FRP linings are designed to last over 20 years, offering long-term durability and reliable protection against corrosion and damage. This solution ensures the integrity of tanks for years to come as well as long-term cost savings.

Sustainable and Environmentally Friendly

Opting for FRP linings is a sustainable choice. As a business, it is our aim to be net-zero by , and as part of this we have made several sustainable business decisions, including adopting the use of a specialist rPET resin derived from recycled plastics across all of our products.

As a result, repairing tanks eliminates the need for replacement, utilises resin made from recycled plastics, and extends the life of tanks by over two decades, contributing to environmental conservation and waste reduction in the long term.

Rapid Response and Minimal Downtime

When time is limited, the last thing you need is an area to be closed off or work to grind to a halt. FRP tank linings eliminate this issue. Most restorations are completed within a week, allowing operations to continue smoothly without the need for a full shutdown.

In comparison, a heat drying kiln lined with FRP is 60% less carbon-intensive than its steel equivalent, aligning with ESG goals. Moreover, the cost savings are substantial, with an FRP kiln costing approximately £1.4m compared to £12m for a steel version. These benefits highlight the significant financial and environmental advantages of choosing FRP solutions.

If you are looking for more details, kindly visit Frp Water Tank.