Secondary containment systems are a crucial part of an industrial facility, providing an additional layer of protection against hazardous material spills and leaks. These systems prevent the spread of pollutants into the environment, protecting human health and the ecosystem.
There are several types of secondary containment systems available on the market, each with its own unique features and benefits. When you understand the different types of secondary containment systems, you can choose the one that’s best for your operation.
Concrete Containment Pads
Concrete containment pads are among the most widely used secondary containment systems, particularly in industries such as oil and gas, chemical manufacturing, and transportation. Using reinforced concrete, these pads can handle heavy loads, extreme weather, and wear and tear over time.
Their durability guarantees they remain functional, even in harsh industrial environments. Concrete containment pads also offer exceptional resistance to chemical spills, making them ideal for safely containing hazardous materials. You can even customize these pads in different sizes and shapes to fit the specific requirements of a facility.
Steel Containment Structures
Steel containment structures have incredible durability and strength, making them another popular option for secondary containment. These metal systems resist corrosion, impacts, and fire, which are common risks in industrial settings.
The structures are versatile, and you can use them in facilities where the storage and handling of hazardous substances are routine. Additionally, you can prefabricate steel containment structures or custom-build them to meet the specific needs of a site, guaranteeing maximum efficiency and protection against potential spills or leaks.
Composite Containment Systems
Composite containment systems combine the best of both worlds: the structural strength of steel and the chemical resistance of specialized coatings. These systems provide superior protection against the leakage of hazardous materials.
Thanks to their flexibility in design, you can even customize these composite systems to accommodate specific facility layouts or operational needs. Their robust construction ensures long-term performance, and their chemical-resistant coatings protect against corrosion.
Plastic Secondary Containment
Plastic secondary containment systems are a lightweight, cost-effective solution for facilities that need containment systems but face budget or space constraints. Made from durable materials such as high-density polyethylene (HDPE), these systems are highly resistant to chemical spills and environmental exposure.
They’re also easy to install, making them an excellent choice for temporary or smaller-scale containment needs. Despite their lightweight design, plastic secondary containment systems are tough and provide reliable spill prevention and control for a range of industrial applications.
Double-Walled Tanks
Double-walled tanks are a common choice for safely storing hazardous materials in industrial settings. These tanks feature an inner layer made from the primary storage material and a secondary outer layer for additional protection. This double-layered design minimizes the risk of leaks or spills by providing a backup barrier.
These tanks are especially useful in environments where the potential for environmental contamination must be strictly controlled. Double-walled tanks are available in various sizes and materials, making them suitable for aboveground and underground storage.
Containment Berms
Containment berms offer a flexible, portable solution for spill and leak containment. Typically using materials such as reinforced PVC or heavy-duty fabric, containment berms are durable and chemical-resistant. You can deploy them quickly too, making them an essential tool for emergency spill response. Their versatility allows you to use them in a variety of settings, from industrial facilities to construction sites for effective containment wherever needed.
Drip Pans
Drip pans are simple yet effective secondary containment systems designed to catch potential equipment leakage. These shallow trays are great beneath machinery, valves, or storage containers as a precautionary measure. They’re also highly portable, and you can easily move or adjust them. While typically used in combination with other containment solutions, drip pans provide an added layer of protection against minor spills to maintain a cleaner, safer work environment.
Spill Containment Tubs
To hold drums, barrels, and other large storage units that contain hazardous materials, use spill containment tubs. These tubs can withstand high liquid volumes, making them ideal for spill response. They often come with features such as grates or removable liners to facilitate cleaning and maintenance. Spill containment tubs are a practical solution for facilities that handle large quantities of hazardous substances and require robust, easy-to-use containment.
Concrete Sleeves
Concrete sleeves protect underground pipelines carrying hazardous materials. These sleeves provide an additional layer of containment, reducing the risk of leaks or ruptures. Concrete sleeves are critical for safeguarding underground infrastructure across many industries. The sleeves can easily withstand external pressures and environmental factors for safer transport of hazardous substances.
Trench Liners
Trench liners go beneath pipelines, equipment, or storage areas to prevent leaks from seeping into the ground and causing contamination. These liners use materials such as plastic, PVC, or geotextile fabric. They’re especially useful in industries where environmental protection is a top priority.
Leak Detection Systems
A great secondary containment system is a leak detection system, which monitors storage tanks and pipelines for leaks. These systems provide real-time alerts, enabling facility managers to respond quickly and prevent environmental damage. With features such as automated sensors and data tracking, leak detection systems are an essential tool for maintaining safety and compliance in industrial operations.
Overflow Prevention Devices
Overflow prevention devices can stop spills or overflows from storage tanks by automatically shutting off the flow of materials when the tank reaches capacity. You can install these devices on aboveground and underground tanks, making them a crucial safety feature in many industrial applications. By preventing overflows, these devices protect workers and the environment.
Stormwater Management Systems
If you need to contain and treat runoff from industrial facilities and prevent pollutants from entering nearby waterways, you can rely on a stormwater management system. These systems may include components such as catch basins, oil/water separators, and filtration units, all working together for compliance with environmental regulations. Through effective stormwater management, your facility can minimize your environmental impact without compromising operational efficiency.
Investing in reliable secondary containment systems is crucial for protecting your facility, employees, and the environment. With a variety of options available, understanding the unique features and benefits of each type determines which one best suits your needs.
That’s where Royal Liner comes in. We can help you find the system that’s right for you, and we even offer spill containment liners if that’s what your operation needs. We have the technical expertise and experience necessary to help you make your facility safer and more efficient.
Recent Comments