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Secondary Containment for FRP Tanks and Bunds

Secondary Containment for FRP Tanks and Bunds

In short: Secondary containment catches a leak from a tank. The usual options are a bund (dike), a double-wall tank or a containment tray. Capacity rules depend on location and chemical. England's oil storage rules require 110% of a single tank, or for several tanks the greater of 110% of the largest or 25% of the total. US hazardous waste rules require 100% of the largest tank plus rainfall. Always check the rules that apply to your site.

Secondary Containment for FRP Tanks and Bunds – In short summary: key points at a glance

What capacity rules apply?

Examples of secondary containment capacity rules
Rule Applies to Capacity requirement
England, Control of Pollution (Oil Storage) Regulations 2001 Oil storage above set volumes 110% of a single container; for several containers, at least 110% of the largest or 25% of the total, whichever is greater
US 40 CFR 264.193 Hazardous waste tank systems 100% of the largest tank plus precipitation from a 25-year, 24-hour storm (for outdoor systems)
US 40 CFR 112 (SPCC) Oil storage above set volumes Capacity of the largest container plus enough freeboard for precipitation
Local and industry codes Chemicals, fire codes, permits Varies; confirm with the regulator or insurer

These are examples only. Chemical storage is often covered by local permits or national rules with their own requirements.

Which containment option suits FRP tanks?

  • Concrete bund with a chemical-resistant lining: common for tank farms. The lining (for example FRP or vinyl ester) protects the concrete.
  • Double-wall FRP tank: an inner tank inside an outer tank, with an interstitial space that can be monitored for leaks. It saves space.
  • Containment tray or pan: for small tanks and IBCs.
  • Leak detection: sensors in a sump or in the space between walls.
Diagram: Which containment option suits FRP tanks? – Secondary Containment for FRP Tanks and Bunds
Which containment option suits FRP tanks?: summary diagram from this guide.

What design details matter?

  • Compatibility: the bund lining must resist the stored chemical.
  • Rainwater: a sump and a manual (normally closed) valve or pump. Never leave an open drain.
  • Separation: keep incompatible chemicals, such as acids and hypochlorite, in separate bunds.
  • Access: steps or stiles over bund walls. FRP grating and stair treads resist spills. See FRP grating guide.

How should containment be inspected?

  • Regular visual checks: cracks, lining damage and standing liquid.
  • Remove rainwater: after checking that it is not contaminated.
  • Test leak detection: on a set schedule.
  • Record: inspections and any releases.

See FRP tank inspection and maintenance.

Diagram: What design details matter? – Secondary Containment for FRP Tanks and Bunds
What design details matter?: summary diagram from this guide.

How FIBROVX can help

Send us the tank sizes, chemicals and site layout, and we will propose single- or double-wall tanks and linings. Your engineer confirms which local rules apply. Request a quote. CIF by default, FOB on request.

Common mistakes

  • Sizing for one tank when several share a bund: apply the multiple-container rule.
  • Open bund drains: a leak goes straight to the drain.
  • Mixing incompatible chemicals in one bund: they can react.
  • Unlined concrete for acids: acids attack concrete.
Diagram: How should containment be inspected? – Secondary Containment for FRP Tanks and Bunds
How should containment be inspected?: summary diagram from this guide.

Key terms

  • Bund (dike): a walled area that contains spills.
  • Double-wall tank: a tank with an inner and an outer shell.
  • Interstitial space: the gap between the walls of a double-wall tank.
  • Freeboard: extra height that allows for rainwater and waves.

FAQ

How big should a bund be? It depends on the rules. A common rule is 110% of the largest tank, and some rules add a percentage of the total or allow for rainfall.

Is a double-wall tank enough on its own? Often it can replace a bund, but check local rules and add leak monitoring.

Can FRP be used to line a bund? Yes. FRP and vinyl ester linings are commonly used to protect concrete bunds from chemicals.

What about rainwater in the bund? Remove it through a closed valve or pump after checking it is clean.

Related guides

Sources

  • UK Government, Oil storage regulations for businesses: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/storing-oil-at-a-home-or-business
  • US eCFR, 40 CFR 264.193 Containment and detection of releases: https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-40/chapter-I/subchapter-I/part-264/subpart-J/section-264.193
  • US eCFR, 40 CFR 112.8 SPCC requirements: https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-40/chapter-I/subchapter-D/part-112
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