FRP / Fiberglass Tank Lining & Relining

Tank relining is the process of restoring a tank’s interior corrosion barrier instead of replacing the entire vessel. For FRP tanks, this typically includes inspection, surface preparation, repair of compromised laminate, installation of compatible resin and veil systems, curing, and final inspection. Relining can extend service life, adapt tanks to new chemicals, and reduce downtime.

An FRP tank may need relining when inspections find spidering, disbondment, abrasion wear, emulsification, low Barcol hardness, capillary migration, stress cracking, or corrosion-coat breaches. Operators should also consider relining before changing stored chemicals or operating temperatures. Early relining often prevents larger structural damage and avoids emergency replacement.

Relining is often more cost-effective and less disruptive than replacement when the tank structure remains serviceable. It preserves the existing vessel, foundation, piping layout, and capital investment while restoring the interior corrosion barrier. Replacement may be necessary for severe structural failure, but many liner failures can be addressed through engineered repair and relining.

AFTR works with systems for many aggressive chemicals, including sodium hypochlorite, sodium hydroxide, ferric chloride, hydrochloric acid, potable water, deionized water, food-processing fluids, and wastewater chemicals. Resin, veil, and reinforcement choices are matched to the chemical concentration, operating temperature, and service environment rather than using a one-size-fits-all lining.

Project duration depends on tank size, access, damage severity, cure requirements, and whether nozzle or structural repairs are included. AFTR schedules work around shutdowns, night shifts, weekends, and operating constraints to reduce downtime. Dedicated FRP tanker trailer relining can typically be completed in about two weeks at the company’s New Hampshire facilities.

Yes. AFTR offers 24/7 emergency response for fiberglass tank incidents such as forklift impacts, dropped equipment, tipped tanks, and sudden liner failures. Field crews can mobilize with Service-Pack containers stocked with polyester, vinylester, epoxy resins, mat, and veil materials so assessment and repair can begin quickly after arrival.

FRP tank inspections are supervised by Fiberglass Tank & Pipe Institute certified inspectors, with composite engineers interpreting findings and recommending remediation. Inspection methods may include visual assessment, ultrasonic testing, laser evaluation, Barcol hardness checks, and high-intensity backlight testing to understand both surface conditions and hidden laminate issues.

In many cases, yes. AFTR can design product-specific corrosion systems using custom-blended isophthalic and terephthalic polyester, vinylester, or epoxy resins with appropriate veil and mat laminates. This can help an existing FRP tank safely transition to a different chemistry or operating temperature, provided inspection confirms the vessel is a suitable candidate.