Menu
An above ground storage tank purchase requires careful planning. Identifying the type of tank needed for the site is one of the first items a storage tank purchaser should consider. The tank type often depends on the local requirements of the Authority Handling Jurisdiction (AHJ).
The AHJ is usually the Fire Marshal or the state or local environmental department. The site owner may need clarification if the AHJ provides vague details. Various types of tanks that are available on the market are explained in this article to help provide a better understanding.
*This article is for informational purposes only. Tank owners should always consult the local code authority before purchasing an above ground storage tank.
Manufacturers of above ground storage tanks usually offer three types of tanks for customers to choose from. Those include:
If the AHJ enforces the NFPA 30, Flammable and Combustible Liquids Code, these tanks are listed in that publication as follows:
UL 142 Tank
UL 142 tanks are constructed to Underwriters Laboratories UL 142 Standard with no STI label—the UL 142 standard covers double wall secondary containment tanks. NFPA 30 Flammable and Combustible Liquids Code requires atmospheric tanks to be designed and constructed by one of several recognized engineering standards, one of which is the UL 142.
UL 142 Tank with Steel Tank Institute Flameshield Label
Sometimes, when the AHJ will not accept a UL 142 tank, they will allow this tank type. The UL 142 tank with the STI Flameshield label is a double wall tank constructed to the UL142 standard and has the STI Flameshield label to show that the design has undergone a 2-hour fire test through the Southwest Research Institute standard 97-04. The STI label validates that the tank is constructed with STI technology and that this non-insulated tank passes a 2-hour 2,000° fire test. Sometimes, when a Fire Marshal will not accept a UL142 tank, they will allow this type. The cost, which includes STI-related expenses, is more than a regular UL 142 tank.
UL 2085 Tank with Steel Tank Institute Fireguard Label
The UL 2085 tank with Fireguard Label is a double wall tank constructed to the UL 2085 standard with the STI Fireguard label. The tank construction is a tank made to UL 2085 standard. Unlike UL 142 tanks, instead of just being a secondary containment tank, it has a 110% capacity interstitial space filled with fire insulation material. The insulation material is for fire safety and temperature control. The STI Fireguard label validates that the tank was constructed per the technology of the STI and also shows that the design has undergone a 2-hour fire test through the Southwest Research Institute standard 97-04. The label validates that this insulated tank exceeds the 2-hour 2,000° fire test. Due to more costs in construction and design, the cost is considerably more than UL 142 tanks.
Each tank has its own respective minimum separation requirements as stated in NFPA 30. The NFPA 30 code can update periodically, so it is always best to consult the current NFPA 30 publication to ensure this information is up to date.
The current requirements are as follows per Table 4.3.2.4:
UL 142 Tank (other tanks meeting NFPA 30)
From nearest important building on same property – 50 Feet
From fuel dispensing device – 50 Feet
From lot line that is or can be built upon 100 Feet
From nearest side of any public way – 50 Feet
UL 142 Tank with STI Flameshield Label (fire resistant above ground tank)
From nearest important building on same property – 25 Feet
From fuel dispensing device – 25 Feet
From lot line that is or can be built upon – 50 Feet
From nearest side of any public way – 25 Feet
UL 2085 Tank with STI Fireguard Label (protected above ground tank)
From nearest important building on same property – 5 Feet
From fuel dispensing device – 0 Feet
From lot line that is or can be built upon – 15 Feet
From nearest side of any public way – 5 Feet
Each tank will suit the job and can be used as far as fuel storage is concerned, but when NFPA 30 is enforced by the AHJ, the separation requirements are the major factor in determining which tank should be used.
Home for information on the products that we have to offer.