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Precision Fabrication for Global Industries: Ahner Industrial’s Expertise in Custom Tank Solutions

Writer: Ahner IndustrialAhner Industrial

Precision Fabrication for High-Performance Tanks and Vessels

At Ahner Industrial in Sandusky, Ohio, we collaborate with global industry leaders to fabricate high-performance tanks and vessels engineered to meet the most rigorous operational demands. As a trusted contract manufacturer, we specialize in precision execution—transforming innovative engineering designs into durable, code-compliant solutions. In this post, we highlight three recent projects where our welding expertise, advanced material knowledge, and uncompromising quality assurance delivered outstanding results.


The Critical Importance of Proper Liquid Storage

In industries handling liquids—whether it’s high-proof alcohol, vinegar, or industrial fluids—the right storage solution is vital. Precision fabrication and thoughtful material selection ensure that storage tanks deliver:

  • Product Integrity:

    • Hygienic Materials: Use of non-porous, food-grade materials such as 304 stainless steel prevents contamination, spoilage, and undesirable chemical reactions.

    • Consistency: Maintaining purity is key to reliable performance in food, beverage, and chemical processes.

  • Safety Compliance:

    • Standards Adherence: Tanks are designed to meet FDA, USDA, and OSHA standards for both hazardous and consumable liquids.

    • Risk Mitigation: Integrated design features—like venting systems and pressure-rated welds—minimize the risk of leaks and vapor buildup.

  • Corrosion Resistance:

    • Material Expertise: Expert selection and treatment of materials ensure tanks can withstand harsh environments, including acidic or aggressive fluids.

    • Longevity: Advanced coatings, passivation, and meticulous surface preparation extend the lifespan of every tank.

  • Operational Efficiency:

    • Ease of Maintenance: Features such as integrated manways, probes, and access points simplify cleaning, inspections, and routine maintenance.

    • Custom Fit: Tailored flanges, valves, and fittings optimize workflow and align with specific process requirements.

  • Environmental Protection:

    • Leak-Tight Construction: Robust, leak-tight welds and comprehensive testing prevent spills, protecting both your product and the environment.


At Ahner Industrial, we don’t just build tanks—we craft comprehensive solutions that safeguard your products, personnel, and reputation. By integrating advanced materials, precision welding techniques, and strict quality control protocols, we ensure that every storage system we produce meets the highest standards of safety, durability, and performance.


Case Studies: Excellence in Fabrication

Case Study 1: Alcohol Storage Tanks for a Global Process Technology Leader



  • Client: A multinational supplier of machinery and systems for the food, biotechnology, chemical, and environmental technology sectors.

  • Scope: Fabricate three 304 stainless steel tanks designed for demanding fermentation and distillation processes.


Ahner’s Role:

  • Fabrication: Constructed tanks to precise specifications (144” diameter x 20’ long, 3/16” thick, with dished heads).

  • Welding: Employed TIG welding to create sanitary, leak-free seams capable of withstanding high-proof alcohol and frequent sanitization.

  • Features: Integrated manways, flanges, probe ports, and polished interiors ensured full USDA/FDA compliance.

  • Testing: Utilized dye penetrant non-destructive testing (NDT) to confirm weld integrity and watertight performance.


Result:

Delivered tanks that met global standards for hygiene and durability, reinforcing our client’s reputation for innovation in fermentation technology.


Case Study 2: Vinegar Holding Tanks for a Chemical & Food Industry Innovator



  • Client: The same global process technology leader requiring tanks capable of withstanding corrosive acetic acid.

  • Scope: Fabricate vinegar storage tanks designed to endure acidic environments and thermal cycling.


Ahner’s Role:

  • Fabrication: Constructed tanks from 7-gauge (≈3/16” thick) 304 stainless steel, featuring a 144” diameter x 20’ long design with top and bottom dished heads.

  • Welding: Applied MIG welding with meticulous post-weld finishing to eliminate crevices and ensure smooth, corrosion-resistant surfaces.

  • Features: Integrated passivated exteriors, custom flanges, and effective venting systems per client specifications.

  • Testing: Conducted dye penetrant NDT and pressure tests to verify leak-tight seals.


Result:

Provided tanks that not only extended service life but also reduced maintenance costs for the client’s food and chemical sector customers.


Case Study 3: Industrial Fluid Filtration Tank for a Metalworking Solutions Provider



  • Client: A manufacturer specializing in high-efficiency fluid filtration systems for metalworking and industrial applications.

  • Scope: Fabricate a large, open-top rectangular tank optimized for fluid containment and filtration processes.


Ahner’s Role:

  • Fabrication: Constructed a custom tank measuring 26’ long x 5’ tall x 8’ wide using 3/16” thick A36 carbon steel plates.

  • Welding: Executed robust MIG welding to achieve watertight joints.

  • Integration: Seamlessly incorporated flanges, fittings, couplings, and a channel base to ensure compatibility with downstream systems and streamline installation.

  • Surface Preparation: Utilized SSPC-SP3 power tool cleaning and applied a corrosion-resistant paint to enhance durability.

  • Testing: Conducted comprehensive dye penetrant non-destructive testing (NDT) to confirm weld integrity and leak-free performance.


Result:

Delivered a durable, custom-fit tank that not only met the client's stringent requirements for fluid management in demanding industrial settings but also integrated essential components for improved functionality and ease of installation.


Why Clients Trust Ahner Industrial

  • NDT Expertise: Every critical weld undergoes dye penetrant testing to guarantee leak-free, watertight performance.

  • Material Versatility: Whether it’s 304 stainless steel for corrosive liquids or A36 carbon steel for heavy-duty applications, we fabricate to your exact specifications.

  • Welding Mastery: Our team’s proficiency in TIG, MIG, and robotic welding ensures that each project is executed with the appropriate blend of hygiene, strength, and speed.

  • Hassle-Free Execution: We handle the complexities of fabrication so you can concentrate on design and innovation.


Your Blueprints, Our Craftsmanship

From stainless steel tanks for corrosive liquids to carbon steel solutions for heavy-duty applications, Ahner Industrial transforms your engineered designs into reliable, code-compliant tanks that stand the test of time.


Ready to Discuss Your Project?

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Ahner Industrial | Sandusky, Ohio www.Ahner-Industrial.com | 419-626-6641



P.S. Need a fabrication partner who prioritizes precision and rigorous testing offering custom tank solutions? Send us your specifications—we’re ready to deliver results you can trust!

 
 
 

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