When it comes to storing flammable liquids and hazardous materials, safety should be the top priority.
This is where the importance of choosing the right storage tank comes in.
UL 142 and UL 2085 are two popular standards for fuel storage tanks that are widely used in various industries.
In this article, we will dive deeper into UL 142 vs UL 2085 and discuss their differences, benefits, and which one is the best fit for your needs.
Understanding UL 142 and UL 2085
Before we proceed with the comparison, let us first understand what UL 142 and UL 2085 are.
UL 142
UL 142 is a safety standard for aboveground steel tanks used for the storage of flammable and combustible liquids. The standard covers single and double-wall tanks that are used for aboveground storage of non-corrosive, stable, and combustible liquids that have a specific gravity not exceeding 1.0.
UL 2085
UL 2085 is a safety standard for double-wall aboveground storage tanks for flammable and combustible liquids. This standard requires tanks to have secondary containment, meaning the tank has an outer wall and an inner wall with an interstitial space in between, which is monitored for leaks. UL 2085 applies to all types of tanks regardless of their size, and the tanks must meet specific tests for impact, leak detection, and other safety features.
The Differences
Now that we have a basic understanding of UL 142 and UL 2085 let’s dive deeper into the differences between the two standards.
Construction
One of the primary differences between UL 142 and UL 2085 is their construction. UL 142 tanks are single-wall or double-wall steel tanks with no secondary containment requirement. On the other hand, UL 2085 tanks are double-wall steel tanks with a minimum of two inches of insulation between the walls. The tanks have a secondary containment feature that provides protection in case the primary tank fails.
Fire Rating
Another significant difference between UL 142 and UL 2085 is their fire rating. UL 142 tanks have no fire resistance rating, while UL 2085 tanks are fire-resistant and can withstand two hours of fire exposure.
Capacity
The capacity of the tank is another crucial factor to consider. UL 142 tanks are limited to a maximum capacity of 50,000 gallons, while UL 2085 tanks have no capacity limit.
Intended Use
UL 142 tanks are typically used for storing fuels for generators, heaters, and other small applications. UL 2085 tanks are designed for large-scale applications such as fueling stations, airports, and military bases.
Benefits of UL 142 and UL 2085
Both UL 142 and UL 2085 have their unique benefits, depending on the intended use.
Benefits of UL 142
- Cost-effective option for small-scale fuel storage needs
- Suitable for indoor and outdoor installations
- Easy to install and maintain
- Available in various sizes and configurations
Benefits of UL 2085
- Provides superior protection against fire and explosion hazards
- Complies with federal and state regulations
- Offers a high level of corrosion resistance
- Ideal for large-scale fuel storage needs
Choosing the Right Tank for Your Needs
Choosing the right storage tank for your needs depends on several factors, including the type of material you are storing, the size of your operation, and the regulations you need to comply with. If you are storing small quantities of fuel or hazardous materials, UL 142 may be a suitable option. However, if you require higher fire resistance and larger storage capacities, UL 2085 would be a better option to consider. Consulting with a reputable tank manufacturer can help you make an informed decision and ensure you choose the right tank for your specific needs.
Conclusion
When it comes to storing flammable and hazardous liquids, safety is paramount. Choosing the right tank is crucial to ensure the protection of your employees, assets, and the environment. UL 142 and UL 2085 are two popular standards for aboveground storage tanks. While both have their unique benefits, their construction, fire rating, capacity, and intended use differ significantly. By understanding the differences between UL 142 and UL 2085, you can make an informed decision and choose the right tank for your needs.
FAQs
- What is the difference between UL 142 and UL 2085?
- UL 142 is a safety standard for aboveground steel tanks used for the storage of flammable and combustible liquids. UL 2085 is a safety standard for double-wall aboveground storage tanks for flammable and combustible liquids with secondary containment features.
- What are the benefits of UL 142?
- UL 142 tanks are a cost-effective option for small-scale fuel storage needs and are suitable for indoor and outdoor installations.
- What are the benefits of UL 2085?
- UL 2085 tanks provide superior protection against fire and explosion hazards, comply with federal and state regulations, and offer a high level of corrosion resistance.
- Which tank is suitable for large-scale fuel storage needs?
- UL 2085 is an ideal option for large-scale fuel storage needs.
- How can I choose the right tank for my needs?
- Consult with a reputable tank manufacturer who can guide you in choosing the right tank for your specific needs.