Field of propane Tanks

Tanks

Propane tanks provide fuel for a variety of equipment, including ranges, clothes dryers, fireplaces, heat pumps, standby generators, and integrated appliances for heating, cooling, and hot water.

PERC tank research explores the safety of new and existing tank designs, the use of alternative tank materials, and the development of storage tanks that are lighter, longer lasting, and more durable.

  • Alternative Materials for Underground Propane Storage Tanks
  • Docket 12096, 11728

Alternative materials, such as composites, can be used instead of steel in underground propane storage tanks. Researchers evaluated the best materials or combinations for manufacturing an underground tank and conducted field tests. A detailed design and manufacturing cost estimate of a 500-gallon underground composite propane tank was also developed that included literature studies of material compatibility and appurtenance corrosion analyses.
Fact Sheet
New Materials for Underground Propane Tanks

Project Reports
Study of Alternative Tank Materials
Alternative Materials for Underground Propane Tank Materials Phase II 

  • Load Cells Feasibility Study
  • Docket 10954, 11722

This study explored the feasibility of using load cells to fill and monitor propane bulk tank levels by weight. Researchers assessed the cost-effectiveness of installing a load cell system that accurately measures product quantities.
Project Report
Load Cell Testing Report

  • Underground Propane Tank Coatings Study
  • Docket 12469

This study tested and evaluated the ability of various coatings to prevent corrosion and damage of steel underground propane storage tanks. Researchers subjected seven tanks with different coatings to weathering, chemical exposure, and thermal cycling, and evaluated the tanks’ performance as part of PERC’s equipment comparison testing program.
Fact Sheet
Testing Underground Propane Tank Coatings

Project Reports
Evaluation of Underground Tank Coatings Executive Summary 
Evaluation of Underground Tank Coatings Report 
Evaluation of Underground Tank Coatings - American Welding & Tank Liquid Coating Performance Summary 
Evaluation of Underground Tank Coatings - American Welding & Tank Powder Coating Performance Summary 
Evaluation of Underground Tank Coatings - Liberty Tank & Vessels Liquid Coating Performance Summary 
Evaluation of Underground Tank Coatings - Liberty Tank & Vessels Powder Coating Performance Summary 
Evaluation of Underground Tank Coatings – Quality Steel Corporation Liquid Coating Performance Summary 
Evaluation of Underground Tank Coatings – Thompson Tanks Powder Coating Performance Summary 
Evaluation of Underground Tank Coatings – Trinity Industries Powder Coating Performance Summary