FAQs

What is the average life expectancy of fluoropolymer linings?
Life expectancy ranges from 5-20 years depending on what the lining is being used for and proper maintenance. Variables include the type of material being stored in the tank, its concentration, and temperature.

Can fluoropolymer linings be repaired?
YES. Repairs can be performed on site or in our Emmaus, PA facility

How do I know when my tank needs a new lining?
Any evidence of delamination, blistering or cracking would warrant an inspection. Electro Chemical can perform an inspection of the equipment and provide a written inspection report from one of our PA DEP certified tank lining inspectors.

What materials do you work with?
Electro Chemical works with the following fluoropolymers (PVDF, ECTFE, ETFE, FEP, PTFEm and PFA). Tradenames are KYNAR®(Arkema), HALAR®(Solvay), and TEFZEL®(Chemours).

How are linings applied?
Sheet stock is pre-cut then bonded with an elastomeric adhesive to a properly prepared substrate. Seams are then welded together and helium leak tested.

How much does it cost to line a tank?
It depends on a number of variables

  • type of coating or lining required
  • size of vessel and number of nozzles
  • number of diptubes, baffles or agitation required
  • type of surface preparation required
  • the condition of the surface area to be coated or lined
  • location where lining is installed


How long does it take to line a tank?

Unfortunately, there is no simple answer to this question because there are so many factors involved. As a reference a new 7’diameter x 19’l cylindrical carbon steel tank would take approximately 4 to 5 weeks to line in our shop.

What type of maintenance do you recommend for fluoropolymer linings?
The linings should be visually inspected at every opportunity when the tank is emptied during scheduled outages or at least twice per year. Helium leak testing should be performed on an annual basis by qualified personnel to determine if any pinholes have developed.

Does Electro Chemical perform field repairs?
YES. Electro Chemical has OSHA and confined space trained technicians available for emergency repairs or scheduled maintenance outages.
Please contact us for answers to other questions or to find out more about our services.