Stainless steel tanks are highly corrosion-resistant vessels designed for use under pressure or atmospheric pressure, and intended for the safe and hygienic storage of potable and utility water, food raw materials, process fluids, and chemicals. They are distinguished by their long service life, low maintenance, and hygienic advantages in applications such as potable and utility water storage in hotels, hygienic storage in food processing facilities, and the recovery of process water, chemicals, and condensate in industry.

The choice of material depends on the chemical composition, chloride content, temperature, and expected lifespan of the fluid to be stored. AISI 304 is a common and economical solution for drinking water and production water, as well as for neutral environments. In marine, chlorinated, or more aggressive environments, the addition of molybdenum to AISI 316 provides improved resistance to pitting corrosion. Under high temperatures and thermal cycling, the titanium stabilization of AISI 316Ti reduces susceptibility to grain boundaries, thus enhancing the safety of weld areas. Ekin Endüstriyel offers 304/316/316Ti stainless steel tanks from 100 to 5,000 liters, depending on project requirements, and larger volumes upon request.

The wall thickness is determined by calculations that take into account the operating pressure, tank volume, and design temperature; external loads, seismic and wind effects, and soil characteristics are also considered. Different bottom shapes (spherical, torispherical, ellipsoidal, or conical) are evaluated based on their strength, ease of manufacturing, and ease of cleaning. Connection ports and flange classes are selected according to the process pressure. Design and mechanical calculations are performed in accordance with EN 13445 and Directive 2014/68/EU relating to the PED Directive or the principles of ASME, Section VIII, Division 1, as required; the project documentation includes material certificates and calculation reports.

The integrity of welds is essential for the durability of stainless steel tanks. At Ekin Endüstriyel, welds are performed by BV-certified technicians in accordance with approved WPS/PQR procedures. The weld beads are then ground to a smooth internal surface, chemically cleaned, and passivated. Radiographic and/or dye penetrant testing is carried out to detect hidden capillary defects; for pressure vessels, leak tightness and strength are verified by hydrostatic testing. This minimizes the risk of fatigue and corrosion during operation.

Internal surfaces are protected by an active-passive film obtained through pickling and passivation. For applications requiring strict hygiene, electropolishing enhances cleanliness and biofilm resistance. Various options, such as sleeve and flange positioning, level indicator and sensor nozzles, vents and vacuum breakers, CIP nozzles, sampling devices, inspection ports, electric heating elements or ducts/coils, external insulation, and decorative coatings, are configured according to project requirements. In outdoor tanks, heat loss and condensation are controlled through UV- and weather-resistant coating and insulation solutions.