FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

  • General

  • Is there some way to tell when my tank was made?
    Snyder tanks are produced with a molded-in serial number (wheel-date/month format). In addition, the tank's bar code label has a 10-digit serial number and date of manufacture. Your Snyder Sales or Customer Service person can help you interpret the date of manufacture.
  • Will freezing temperatures hurt my poly tank?
    Freezing temperatures will not have an effect on a polyethylene tank, however, if there is liquid in the tank, make sure the freezing liquid has enough head room to expand.

    Snyder utilizes a test called "Low Temperature Impact Resistance." This is a test utilized by both the ARM (Association of Rotational Molders) and ASTM D 1998. Snyder has testing capabilities that exceed the requirements of ARM and ASTM D 1998. They call out -20 degrees F for the test, but Snyder has conducted testing at -40 degrees F. This test is critical to determine if the resin has been properly processed and it will give you an idea as to the temperatures that the resins can see. It is important that efforts be made to avoid impacting the tank, especially with sharp items, at any temperature.
  • How many years will my tank last?
    There are many variables that can have an effect on the life of a polyethylene tank.

    The type of material being stored in the tank, it's concentration, and temperature. The temperature of the application can be a factor, especially if the tank design is not based upon the temperature of the application. Some applications may permeate the polyethylene at elevated temperatures. Special considerations - some chemicals will have long term effects on the polyethylene and may require special considerations. As an example, sodium hypo chlorite will degrade from UV exposure and elevated temperature. As it degrades it can build up sediment in the bottom of the tank. If this sediment is periodically flushed from the tank it will extend the life of the tank.

    Installation and PIPING! - The number one reason for tank failures is due to improper installation. It is important to follow Snyder's "Guidelines for Use & Installation". Having flexible connections that compensate for the expansion and contraction of the tank will extend the life of the tank.

    Is the tank used indoors or outdoors? The amount of U.V. exposure will be based upon the time of exposure and the closeness of the installation to the sun (elevation). What part of the country are you in? Tanks used outdoors in states subjected to more intense sunshine will be more affected by the sun. UV rays will have a detrimental effect on the life span of all poly tanks.

    Storage or process - Is the tank a holding tank or a processing tank? A tank that is continuously cycled will see more stress then a tank that remains at one level or close to one level for extended periods of time. Tanks with excessive agitation may also be exposed to undo stress. Stationary tanks will also not see the stress of a tank that is being transported.
  • What is the warranty on your tanks?
    Snyder warrants to the purchaser for any manufactured tank product proven to be defective in material or workmanship within 3 years from date of original invoice from factory. An extended tank warranty may be available as a purchased option for an additional 2-year period (total of 5 years) for some chemical applications. Snyder also offers chemical specific warranties for industrial vertical & double wall tanks for certain chemical applications including sulfuric acid, sodium hypochlorite and others. Contact Snyder on questions regarding warranty for your specific application.

    Snyder warrants to the purchaser for any manufactured Intermediate Bulk Container (IBC) or dry material handling product proven to be defective in material or workmanship within 2 years (for polyethylene) and 1 year (for steel) from date of original invoice from factory. Contact Snyder on questions regarding warranty for your specific application.
  • Can your tanks be buried?
    Tanks specifically designed for above ground use cannot be put underground because the weight of the ground around the tank can cause the wall to collapse. If you have an application for a below ground tank we do have a cistern and septic tank line available that is designed for below ground use.
  • Can your tanks be pressurized?
    No, our tanks cannot be pressurized. They are all designed to atmospheric pressure.
  • Can I store DEF (Diesel Exhaust Fluid) in your tanks?
    Yes, see the DEF listing on our Chemical Resistance Recommendation Chart. DEF is a high purity chemical solution containing 32.5% urea mixed with high purity water. It is classified as a non-hazardous product. Snyder Industries has a long history of proven success providing both bulk storage tank and IBC solutions for urea storage. DEF will begin to crystallize at 12º F. and can lose its potency if stored for prolonged periods over 86º F so precautions should be taken (such as heat trace and insulation) to ensure these conditions are avoided.

    The EPA has set forth stringent emissions requirements to being January 2010 which will require diesel engine manufacturers to choose a technology called Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) to meet the requirements. When added to the exhaust gases DEF reduces the NOx to the EPA required levels. If you purchase a car, truck, tractor or any diesel-powered product with SCR technology it will require DEF. There will be a separate DEF tank on diesel vehicles to hold the DEF to be sprayed into the exhaust system.

    DEF will be sold at service stations offering diesel fuel across the USA in capacities ranging from gallon jugs, drums, IBCs, and bulk dispensing systems. DEF will also be used by companies who have their own fleet of diesel and fueling stations.
  • Can I store Bio-diesel in your tanks?
    Biodiesel is the name of a clean burning alternative fuel, produced from domestic, renewable resources. Biodiesel contains no petroleum, but it can be blended at any level with petroleum diesel fuel to create a biodiesel blend. Biodiesel or B100 (100%) refers to the pure fuel. Biodiesel blends or BXX refers to a fuel that is composed of a % of biodiesel blended into a conventional fuel (example B20 = 20% Biodiesel blended with 80% conventional fuel).

    Snyder has conducted chemical compatibility testing on B100. Our chemical compatibility testing showed that Snyder’s uniquely processed HDLPE and XLPE resins are compatible with B100. From our chemical compatibility testing, Sii recommends ONLY above ground 1.9 specific gravity Industrial (ASTM) designed tanks for B100 applications. Snyder does not recommend below ground, agricultural or other non-ASTM designed tanks to be used in this application.

    Snyder’s warranty for biodiesel B100 applications is one year (1) against defects in material and workmanship. Snyder may offer additional warranty other than the one (1) year warranty stated above. In such cases these warranty statements will be in writing only from Snyder.

    Snyder’s chemical compatibility testing does not include any biodiesel blends so Snyder has no recommendation for biodiesel blends at this time.
  • Can I store petroleum products in your tanks?
    We do not recommend storing petroleum products in our tanks because they will permeate (soften) the tank walls. Contact Snyder with your specific application. You will find that aromatic hydrocarbons and halogenated hydrocarbons will not be recommended for polyethylene.
  • What is the maximum temperature that your tanks will withstand?
    Linear polyethylene (HDLPE) storage tanks have a maximum storage temperature of 130 degrees F. Cross-linked polyethylene (XLPE) storage tanks have a maximum storage temperature of 140 degrees F.

    NOTE: The leading manufacturers in this industry design their tanks based upon 100 degrees F with ASTM D 1998 calling out 73 degrees F. It is important to contact the factory when your application will continuously be above 100 degrees (ambient). The tank can be designed specifically for your elevated temperature application.
  • Are your tanks FDA compliant?
    The resin used to manufacture our linear polyethylene tanks (HDLPE) meet specifications contained in FDA Regulations 21 CFR 177.1520, © 3.2 and so may be used as an article or component of articles intended for use in contact with food, subject to any limitations in the regulation. Cross-linked polyethylene (XLPE) tanks do not meet FDA regulations. The HDLPE resin that Snyder uses is also NSF 61 listed.
  • What is the wall thickness of your tanks?
    Because Snyder tanks have a stratiform wall thickness (varies from top to bottom on a tank), wall thickness is not the best gauge for determining the quality of a tank. The actual weight of the tank is also not a good comparison when shopping for tanks. Just because a competitor may use more material in the tank does not make it a better tank. That is determined by the resin, mold design and the steps taken during the rotomolding process. Lower grades of resins will require a thicker tank wall to compensate.
  • How heavy a material can polyethylene tanks hold?
    A tank with a specific gravity of 1.5 can hold a liquid up to 12.5 pounds per gallon at 100 degrees F. A tank with a specific gravity of 1.9 can hold a liquid up to 15.75 pounds per gallon at 73 degrees F. Please note that an increase in liquid temperature will substantially decrease the specific gravity rating. Also, certain chemicals have environmental stress cracking agents in them so higher specific gravity tanks are needed to compensate even though the weight of the chemical may be lower. Please refer to the Snyder Chemical Resistance Recommendation Chart or call Snyder Industries to determine which tank design is best suited for the chemical application.
  • Which tank material is best?
    General guidelines of material selection are not advisable. It is always best to provide the tank manufacturer with specific application details (chemical, concentration, specific gravity, temperature, dimensions, mechanical loading) so a proper tank design recommendation can be made by the factory and/or your Snyder distributor.
  • What material does Snyder use to manufacture its poly tanks?
    Snyder uses HDLPE (high density linear polyethylene) to manufacture our tank line. High density linear polyethylene has good structural rigidity and impact resistance. It is resistant to a broad range of chemicals including sulfuric acid, sodium hypo chlorite, and sodium hydroxide.

    We also offer, for specific applications XLPE (cross-linked polyethylene). Cross-link polyethylene has excellent structural rigidity and impact resistance. It is used as an alternative to HDLPE for storing surfactants or solvent-based chemicals, or for higher service temperatures.
  • What chemicals can I store in your tanks?
    Poly tanks have a broad range of chemical resistance to both Agricultural and Industrial chemicals. For Industrial Chemicals refer to the Snyder Chemical Resistance Recommendation Chart on that site or contact the chemical supplier to see if their product is compatible with high density linear polyethylene (HDLPE) or cross-linked polyethylene (XLPE). If they cannot answer your question, call Snyder Industries and we will be happy to research it for you. Try to have as much information available as possible such as the temperature of the product, the percent concentration of product (Ex: Sodium Hypo chlorite, 15%) etc.
  • What makes poly tanks a good choice for my chemical storage/application?
    Poly tanks are lower cost than stainless steel or fiberglass. Lightweight - less than one-half the weight of steel. Seamless construction for easy cleaning and leak proof service. Exceptional Impact resistance. Broad range of chemical resistance. Better weatherability. Available in a variety of resins. Translucent when molded of natural resin for visible liquid level. Virtually maintenance free.
  • Do your tanks have a UL rating?
    The tanks themselves do not have a UL rating. However, UL 94 groups materials into categories based on their flammability. The polyethylene we use (ExxonMobil HD 8660) has undergone the horizontal flame test and has a UL94HB rating which means that specimens must not have a burn rate greater than 1.5 inches (40 mm)/minute for thickness between .120 and .500 inches (3-13 mm) and 3 inches (75 mm)/minute for a thickness less than .120 inches (3 mm). Specimens must stop burning before the flame reaches the 4 inch mark.
  • IBC TOTES

  • Can I pressurize Snyder IBCs?
    No, most plastic IBCs are not designed to be pressure vessels. However, each IBC is production tested to 3 PSIG, and design qualification tests, required for U.N. marking of an IBC, vary from 14.7 PSIG to 62 PSIG for a period of 10 minutes, depending on design type and applications. In some cases, users or shippers of IBCs may want to put a N2 blanket on the product or apply some pressure to help facilitate certain off-loading application requirements. Minimal intermittent pressure exposure of between .5 PSIG - 5 PSIG, for all IBC design types marked with a test pressure = 14.7 PSIG is possible to address.
  • Do Snyder IBCs have to be vented before unloading?
    All Snyder IBCs come equipped with an automatic vacuum vent, which begins relieving internal tank pressure at .25 PSIG, so no manual operation is necessary by IBC users.
  • How long will a Snyder IBC last?
    The useful life of an IBC is dependent on many variables, including the type of IBC, material construction, degree of chemical attack, environmental exposure factors, and the level of handling and transport abuse endured over the years, so it is difficult to define a "rule of thumb" expected useful life. Snyder recommends that IBC owners periodically inspect their IBCs before shipment and use an accredited DOT recertification service provider every 2.5 years to ensure safe IBCs are reused. Snyder provides a tank inspection guide to help supplement IBC inspection and replacement protocol.

    Tank and Inspection Guide
  • What is the difference between Snyder's rotationally molded IBCs and the "caged", blow molded plastic IBC design type?
    Snyder IBCs are typically acquired as an asset for long-term use in reusable/returnable shipping and handling applications. The lighter duty caged plastic IBCs are primarily sold for one-way or limited reuse shipping applications. Reason being, Snyder's IBCs are four times thicker, corrosion proof, and substantially more impact resistant, which results in a much longer lasting and more durable IBC construction.
  • Can I ship filled IBC's stacked. How high can I stack them?
    Snyder does not recommend stacking full containers during transit.
  • Can an IBC be FDA approved?
    Designs are not approved by the FDA, they only approve the MATERIAL used to construct the tank. Snyder can build IBC's using FDA compliant materials. Snyder IBC’s can be manufactured to comply with FDA Title 21 CFR's - 177.2600, 178.2010, 177.1520 and 178.3297. Compliant parts include all gaskets, caps, tank material, and valve.
  • Can I stack filled IBC's for storage?
    Yes, full Snyder IBCs can be stacked multiple units high, as long as you don't exceed the rated gross capacity of the container or the stacking test load shown in the U.N. marking.
  • How long has Snyder been manufacturing chemical tanks and IBCs?
    Snyder has been manufacturing plastic containers for over 55 years in Lincoln, Nebraska. We have expanded over the years to include additional plants with similar manufacturing capabilities.
  • How often does the DOT/UN Marking have to be updated?
    Snyder IBCs must be retested every 2-1/2 years for either UN31H1 or UN31H2 marked units.
  • Where can I find information regarding Department of Transportation Hazardous material regulations?
    The following link will take you to the Department of Transportation Research and Special Programs Hazardous Materials Website. This is an invaluable resource for anyone involved with the shipment of or the offering for shipment of Hazardous Materials in U.N. Marked IBC's.

    https://hazmat.dot.gov
  • Dry Powder Bins

  • What material does Snyder use to manufacture its Hopper Bins?
    Snyder can produce both Poly Hopper Bins and Metal Hopper Bins to meet almost any dry material handling situations. Snyder uses HDLPE (high density linear polyethylene) to manufacture poly hopper bins. High density linear polyethylene has good structural rigidity and impact resistance. Our metal hopper bins can be manufactured using 304 Stainless Steel, 316 Stainless Steel or Carbon Steel.
  • What is maximum weight you can put in these bins?
    Our Poly bins are designed to hold product that has a bulk density rating of 100 Lbs./Per Cubic Foot; I.E. – a 40 Ft³ bin has a rating of 4000 Lbs., 80 Ft³ is rated to hold 8000 lbs. For heavier products, Snyder can manufacture a metal bin to meet the exact design requirements.
  • Can Snyder bins be used in food and pharmaceutical applications?
    Yes, our bins are used in many types of food and pharmaceutical applications from croutons, flavorings, trail mixes, dry blended food mixes, as well as, pharmaceutical tablets. The resin used with our Poly Bins is FDA compliant material and also translucent which allows you to see the product levels inside the bins during operation.
  • How are the Poly bins fabricated?
    The bins are fabricated using a Rotational Molding Process which molds the containers a single one piece molded unit.
  • What is the maximum temperature that Poly Bins can withstand?
    Linear Polyethylene (HDLPE) Hopper Bins have a maximum storage temperature of 130° F. The leading manufacturers in this industry design their product based upon 100° F with ASTM D 1998 calling out 73°F. It is important to contact the factory when your application will continuously be above 100° (ambient). The container can be designed specifically for your elevated temperature application.
  • Can Snyder bins be UN/DOT labeled?
    Yes, depending on the application, both metal and poly bins can be tested and labeled to meet UN/DOT applications for Packaging Group II & III. Contact Snyder Industries for your specific application and testing requirements.
  • Can you stack the bins?
    Yes, Flowmaster Bins can be stacked - all of our Closed Top Bins can be stacked 2 high when full. All Open Top Bins with a removable top cover are a Non-Stackable design.
  • Can you use a pallet jack with the Flowmaster Bins?
    Yes, Flowmaster Bins can be moved with either a pallet jack or fork lift.
  • Can you get the Poly Flowmaster Bins and Base Frames in different colors?
    Yes, most of the bins are natural white with our standard Red colored base frame. We have several customers who like to color code the bins for dedicated products such as peanuts or other allergens specific flavors. We can offer the base in multiple colors such as red, blue, black, green, orange, and natural. Other colors may be available, please contact with us for color and pricing.
  • What is the warranty on your Dry Handling Bins
    Snyder warrants to the purchaser for any manufactured Intermediate Bulk Container (IBC) or dry material handling product proven to be defective in material or workmanship within 2 years (for polyethylene) and 1 year (for steel) from date of original invoice from factory. Contact Snyder on questions regarding warranty for your specific application.
  • Agricultural Tanks

  • What type of tanks should we be using?
    The weight of the product stored and how the tanks are going to be used will determine which tank is required. Our tanks are offered in HDLPE and XLPE, HDLPE being less expensive. Specific gravity of the material being stored is also a factor.

    Specific Gravity (SG):

    1.35 SG – for liquid weight 11.25 pounds or less (typically used for water storage only).

    1.5 SG – for products weight 12.5 pounds or less

    1.9 SG – for products weight 15.8 pounds or less

    2.2 SG – for products weight 18.3 pounds or less (recommended for storage of sulfuric acid, vertical tanks only). Our poly ag tanks are not recommended for transporting sulfuric acid.
  • How long should a poly tank last?
    Our poly tanks are not designed to last forever. The lifespan of our poly tanks depends on several factors:

    Type and size of tank

    Material stored in tank

    Environment – UV radiation degrades polyethylene over time (tanks turn hard and brittle), ambient temperature where tank is stored (desert vs northern California), stored inside or outside.

    Stationary tanks (tank farm) versus tanks that are moved from grower to grower on a frequent basis.

    Frequency of filling

    Misused, neglected or used beyond their design specifications

    The manufacturer – the amount of resin used to make the tank and the manufacturing process
  • What are the most common failures of poly tanks?
    - Temperature of product being stored in the tank

    - Wrong application for the tank

    - Fitting area - improper fitting installation (holes for studs too large, installed on an uneven surface), too much weight on fitting (flexible connections required, must support fitting and valve with block of wood or stand), fitting and/or gasket not compatible with product being stored (poly vs stainless steel, EPDM vs viton), hard plumbing too rigid (over tightened hoops on horizontal tanks, improper installation – tanks placed on improper surface or on a slope, rocks or sharp objects penetrate bottom of tank over time, too much pressure on tank side wall in on slope), gouged or struck by a forklift, other lifting device, trailer or vehicle.
  • What are signs of an aging tank?
    The top signs of an aging tank are either when it becomes hard and brittle or when stress cracks start to develop.

    How do we test them?

    Marking pen or bat test.

    How should we inspect/maintain the tanks and how often?

    Check the tank fittings and camlocks/gaskets for leakage, check to ensure lid is not missing, check vent for blockage, visibly inspect tank for cracks or damage, inspect hoses.

    Recommendations:

    Establish a regular maintenance and inspection schedule (prior to taking tank to field, thoroughly examine and inspect at least once a year), install hinged lids on tank used for transportation, purchase tanks with a poly or stainless bolted fitting in lieu of a bulkhead fitting, purchase tanks with a stress reliever to minimize the chance of a crack at or near the fitting, establish a timeframe to rotate tanks out of service (track with serial numbers from date of purchase or from date when tank was put into service).
  • Septic Tanks & Cisterns

  • Does Snyder sell its septic and water tanks direct to the marketplace?
    No, Snyder markets its products through a carefully selected channel of wholesale supply companies who specialize in products sold to the plumbing contractors and contractors involved in water-well or rainwater collection. We would gladly forward all direct inquiries to one of these stocking distributors located in your region.
  • What material do you use in the manufacture of your septic tanks and water tanks?
    We use linear polyethylene (HDLPE) in the manufacture of all of our septic and water tank products.
  • What are the advantages of using polyethylene in place of other materials in the construction of your tanks?
    Poly tanks are lower cost than stainless steel or fiberglass. Lightweight - less than one-half the weight of steel; a fraction of the weight of pre-cast tanks. Seamless construction for easy cleaning and leak proof service. Exceptional Impact resistance. Corrosion resistance, even in septic environments. Better weatherability.
  • Do your water tanks contain BPA?
    No, BPA is not present in either our material or our manufacturing process. (BPA stands for bisphenol A. BPA is an industrial chemical that has been used to make certain plastics and resins since the 1960s.)
  • Are your water tanks FDA approved?
    Snyder water tanks are built with material that is FDA compliant. "Designs" are not approved by the FDA. Snyder water tanks and cisterns are built in NSF certified facilities. Snyder can build water tanks that are NSF61 certified when they are ordered as such. In addition, Snyder can provide water tanks that meet the NRCS specifications for ASTM1998, again when ordered as such.
  • How long has Snyder been manufacturing polyethylene storage tanks?
    Snyder has been manufacturing plastic containers for over 55 years in Lincoln, Nebraska. We have expanded over the years to include additional plants with similar manufacturing capabilities.
  • What is the maximum temperature that can be stored in your underground and above ground tanks?
    Snyder's linear polyethylene (HDLPE) above ground and below ground storage tanks have been designed for a maximum storage temperature of 100 degrees F.
  • Will freezing temperatures have a negative effect on my water storage tanks?
    Freezing temperatures will not have an effect on a polyethylene water tank, however, if there is water in the tank, make sure the freezing water has enough head room to expand.
  • Can above-ground water tanks be buried (even partially) or can below-ground tank be used above ground?
    Above-ground tanks are designed for containment and are not designed to withstand the exterior stresses caused by soil loads. Below ground tanks are designed to withstand specific soil loads caused by burial actually require the soil load for structure. Use of these tanks in applications for which they are not intended is not recommended and will void the warranty.
  • Does my underground tank require anti-floatation devices to keep it under the ground?
    Snyder Industries does not recommend the installation of our Dominator series of underground water and waste water tanks in locations where the water level outside of the tank is expected to be higher than the water level inside of the tank due to but not limited to seasonal, perched, or high water table or improper management of water run-off. Therefore the installation of a Dominator tank is appropriate when installed accordingly and per SII installation instructions. In the case of septic tanks installed in appropriate high water table situations, SII recommends refilling the tank with water immediately after the tank is pumped. When installed in appropriate situations, the need for additional ballast is not necessary.
  • Petroleum Products

  • What makes polyethylene a great choice for lube storage applications?
    Poly tanks are lower cost than stainless steel or fiberglass. Lightweight - less than one-half the weight of steel. Seamless construction for easy cleaning and leak proof service. Exceptional Impact resistance. Broad range of chemical resistance. Better weatherability. Translucent when molded of natural resin for visible liquid level. Virtually maintenance free.
  • What makes Cubetainers™ a better solution than using drums?
    Eliminates messy clutter from drum storage. Eliminates loss from unused product left in the bottom of each "empty" drum. Eliminate potential contamination form outdoor drum storage. Eliminate down-time and potential injury moving around awkward 55 gallon drums. Buy in bulk to reduce your total fluid expenses. Optimize valuable shop space for additional revenue producing areas such as an additional service bay. Flexibility to move Fluids throughout your shop.
  • What petroleum products can I store in the Cubetainer™?
    Motor Oil, Lubricants, Hydraulic Fluids, Automatic Transmission Fluids (ATF), Antifreeze can all be stored in the Cubetainer™.
  • Can I store DEF (Diesel Exhaust Fluid) in the Cubetainer™?
    Yes, but there is a special Cubetainer™ DEF unit that eliminates the two bottom brass outlets and adds two top replaceable bung connections. One top connection is set up to accept a Micromatic RSV closed system valve with diptube to maintain a CLOSED, SEALED and SECURE system to fill and dispense DEF and ensure DEF purity and packaging integrity. An optional DEF pump package is available with all the connections, hoses, 12V pump and dispenser for DEF applications. An optional pallet base is also available for mobile DEF applications. The HDLPE tank construction allows the Cubetainer™ to comply with ISO 22241-3 section 4.1.2.
  • What other chemicals can I store in Cubetainers™?
    The Cubetainer™ is designed to store liquids with a flash point of 200 degrees or lower with a specific gravity of 1.1 (9.1 lbs. per gallon) or lower that are compatible with the brass insert outlets on the tanks. Poly tanks have a broad range of chemical resistance to both agricultural and Industrial chemical, however many hazardous chemicals would be too heavy or not compatible with the brass outlet material. Snyder offers a wide variety of ASTM D 1998 tanks in single wall and double wall containment designs for these hazardous chemical applications. If you have an application that only the Cubetainer™ design will work for please contact Snyder with details of the chemical (chemical, concentration, weight) and the application so we can determine if a heavier wall unit with an alternate insert outlet material with work for your application.
  • What material does Snyder use to manufacture the Cubetainer™ tanks?
    Snyder uses HDLPE (High Density Linear Polyethylene) to manufacture the Cubetainers™. High density linear polyethylene has good structural rigidity and impact resistance. It is resistant to a broad range of materials including Motor Oil, Lubricants, Hydraulic Fluids, Automatic Transmission Fluids (ATF), Antifreeze and Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF).
  • How heavy a material can the Cubetainer™ tanks hold?
    The Cubetainer™ is designed to store material that is 1.1 specific gravity (9.1 lbs. per gallon) or less. If you have an application that is heavier than 1.1 specific gravity please contact Snyder Industries and provide us with information on the material (name of material & specific gravity or weight of material) along with what size Cubetainer™ you need and the quantity of Cubetainers™ that would be needed.
  • Is the Cubetainer™ FDA Compliant?
    The resin used to manufacture our linear polyethylene tanks (HDLPE) meet specifications contained in FDA Regulations 21 CFR 177.1520, © 3.2 an so may be used as an article or component of articles intended for use in contact with food, subject to any limitations in the regulation. Cross-linked polyethylene (XLPE) tanks do not meet FDA regulations. The HDLPE resin that Snyder uses is also NSF 61 listed.
  • What is the maximum temperature of material that can be stored in the Cubetainer™?
    The maximum recommended temperature 100 degrees for the material inside the tank.
  • Will freezing temperatures hurt my Cubetainer™ tank?
    Freezing temperatures will not have an effect on a polyethylene tank, however, if there is liquid in the tank, make sure the freezing liquid has enough head room to expand. We would also not recommend moving/transporting tanks around with frozen liquid inside of the tank.
  • Can the Cubetainer™ tanks be pressurized?
    No. The Cubetainer™ cannot be pressurized. They are designed to atmospheric pressure.
  • What is the warranty on the Cubetainer™ tanks?
    Snyder warrants to the purchaser for any manufactured Cubetainer™ proven to be defective in material or workmanship within 3 years from date of original invoice from factory. A copy of Snyder's warranty can be viewed on the Industrial Distributor log-in site.

    Snyder Industries Tanks Distributor Login
  • Is there some way to tell when my Cubetainer™ tank was manufactured?
    Cubetainers™ are produced with a hot-stamped 10 digit serial number. In addition, the tank's bar code label has a 10-digit serial number and date of manufacture. Contact Snyder Industries with your serial number and we can help you interpret the date of manufacture.
  • How high can I stack the Cubetainer™?
    The Cubetainers™ can be stacked in a variety of combinations. The overall height of the combined units stacked should not be over 82" height (bottom of stand base to top of tank, not including the stand legs).
  • Is the Cubetainer™ inter-stackable with other competitor stackable lube tank designs?
    Yes. There is one competitor design that is inter-stackable with the Cubetainer™. Please contact us if you have questions about inter-stacking with a competitor design.
  • Can I see the liquid level inside the tank?
    Yes. The polyethylene is a translucent white color so you can see the liquid level through the tank wall. The Cubetainer™ also has molded-in markers in both gallons and liters. The markers are inked for easy visual display – some stackable lube tanks made by competitors take a short-cut and don’t ink the level markers making them difficult to read.
  • My Cubetainer™ isn't dispensing or is dispensing slowly?
    Make sure the fill cap is either loosened or vented to allow air flow into the container. Tightening the fill cap can create a vacuum inside the tank during dispensing which can reduce flow out of the bottom valves.
  • Is the Cubetainer™ SPCC Compliant?
    Yes. The Cubetainer when combined with secondary containment provides a clean, space saving solution to meet SPCC guidelines and 40 CFR 264.175 which requires 110% containment capacity of the largest single primary tank within the containment.
  • Is the Cubetainer™ UN/DOT approved?
    No. The Cubetainer™ is not UN/DOT approved, however Snyder offers a wide variety of Intermediate Bulk Containers (IBCs) in polyethylene, carbon steel and stainless steel that are UN/DOT approved for the storage and transport of hazardous materials.

    Snyder Intermediate Bulk Containers
  • Is there a seismic restraint tie down system available for Cubetainer™?
    We have drawing design details for stacking options up to 360 gallons but we do not have a current seismic restraint system that we offer. Current codes are International Building Code (IBC 2018) and California Building Code (CBC 2019).
  • Seismic Restraint System

  • What is an IBC and CBC?
    IBC stands for International Building Code. CBC stands for California Building Code.
  • Is the IBC and California Building Code (CBC) the same thing? If not, what are the differences, which code should I follow when designing projects in California?
    Yes, but with amendments. The California Building Standards Council (CBSC) went through extensive review of the IBC and the California legislature adopted it by law as the new CBC in 2007, making it effective January 1, 2008. The current version is CBC 2019 and that is the code you must now follow depending on when the local jurisdiction you are working in adopts it and when the structure was submitted for plan check.
  • What about states other that California?
    Other states may have already or may be soon adopting IBC 2018. Typically many states follow the lead of California on seismic system design requirement. You will need to check with local authorities for requirements for your area and when they take effect.
  • What does the code require with regard to equipment anchorage?
    The California / International Building Codes require all stationary equipment to be anchored to its supporting structure (CBC 2019, Section 1613 & IBC 2018, Section 1613). In addition, much of this equipment must have calculations to validate its method of anchorage (ASCE 7-05, Section 13). For floor mounted equipment the requirement is for equipment that weighs 400 pounds or more or is over 60 inches in height.
  • How do I know if Snyder's system will be accepted?
    With IBC 2018 / CBC 2019 the seismic design coefficients are site specific so each zip code may have different requirements. Our standard calculations are based on the design coefficients of a specific zip code in California (see seismic design coefficients in question 1). To determine if our standard calculations will be accepted we recommend you present a copy of our standard seismic design calculations to the contractor and/or engineering firm and have them review the calculations for acceptance. If the calculations are not acceptable then you will need to have the contractor and/or engineering firm provide information on the design coefficients required for the project so they can be reviewed by Snyder.
  • What if I'm being asked to provide a wet stamp?
    Original Wet Stamp calculations are listed in Snyder's price book as a purchased option for vertical tanks, double wall Captor tanks and cone bottom tanks. The wet stamps are broken down into three categories - Standard Calculation, Site Specific (VST/Captor), and Site Specific (CBT). The standard calculation is the calculation we already have done for a specific site that may work for your projects site. If, however, you require a "site specific" calculation which requires changes to the standard calculation then you would use the Site Specific calculation pricing. These site specific calculations will be provided in the same format at the standard calculation only they will be adjusted for the specific site design coefficients. If a "non-standard" format calculation is required please contact Snyder as these will need to be quoted on a case-by-case basis as priced by the Engineer contracted to provide the calculations. A copy of our standard calculation can be provided (PDF format) at no charge by contacting your Snyder Regional Sales Manager or Customer Service.
  • What is a seismic design category?
    The old Uniform Building Code (UBC) 1997 used maps with numbered zones, 0, 1, 2, 3, 4. These maps are practically obsolete (1969 was the last year such a map was put out). The current IBC 2018 code uses Seismic Design Category (SDC). A SDC is a classification assigned to a structure based on its occupancy or use (referred to as Occupancy Category) and on the level of expected soil modified seismic ground motion. This can be expressed schematically as follows: Occupancy Category + Soil modified seismic ground motion = SDC. SDC-A = Very small seismic vulnerability, SDC-B = Low to moderate seismic vulnerability, SDC-C = Moderate seismic vulnerability, SDC-D = High seismic vulnerability, SDC-E and SDC-F = Very high seismic vulnerability and near a major fault. To determine the seismic design category you need to determine the Ss and S1 using maps or calculation tool. If you are working on a specified project then have the contractor or engineering firm responsible for the specification provide you with these figures: Ss = the maximum considered earthquake spectral response acceleration at short periods (0.2 seconds) S1 = the maximum considered earthquake spectral response acceleration at 1 second period.
  • What size pad do I need for the seismic restraint system?
    The diameter of the pad required is outlined in the standard VST and/or Captor calculations. Please review the calculations and find the pad drawing that applies to the tank you are using or quoting for your project. The pad design is based on the default value allowed by code. It may be possible to use a smaller pad size if soil conditions are known. This would have to be done by the engineer on site. The thickness of the pad will need to be determined by a local design engineer based on the soil conditions; however the pad should be thick enough for the anchor embedment outlined in the standard calculations. Please note that if you need a site specific seismic calculation or a non-standard calculation, then the pad size may differ substantially from what is shown in the standard calculation.
  • Today's date is beyond the "expired" date on the structural stamp, is the calculation still valid?
    The calculation is valid as long as the date on the calculation is prior to the expired stamp. The expiration date as related to the date of the permitted drawings, applies to the Engineer of Record's stamp. When Re-Stamping/Re-Signing is Not Required: When a set of documents is properly stamped and signed by an architect or engineer whose license or registration was current at the time of signing, it is considered valid. Re-stamping and re-signing of valid documents is not required except in cases of probably causes. Some of the probably causes for re-stamping and re-signing are, but are not limited to the following: • The architect or engineer of record exercises his/her right to assume responsibility for another engineer who has left the project, deceased or whose license or registration has been revoked, cancelled or retired before his/her design or construction was completed. • The stamps and signatures were improperly or fraudulently placed on the documents. • The documents have become expired or void.
  • What anchor bolts are approved?
    Anchor Rods/bolts and/or epoxy adhesive are not included with the seismic restraint system provided by Snyder Industries. These must be purchased separately. The structural engineer that did our standard calculations has reviewed the anchor requirements carefully and maintains the Hilti HAS-E Rod Standard or equal with Hilti HIT-RE500 V3 epoxy adhesive anchor system is acceptable for the parameters of our seismic calculation set submitted. This is listed on the first page of the calculations. If calculations are required to utilize a specific anchor rod/bolt other than Hilti HAS-E style or epoxy adhesive other than HIT-RE500 V3 then site specific calculations would be required (additional cost for calculations).
  • What is Snyder's VST, Captor, and cone bottom seismic systems design figures?
    The seismic restraint system for VSTs and Captors offered by Snyder meets System meets IBC 2018 / CBC 2019 code with seismic loads less than or equal to 0.445g SDC (Seismic Design Category) "D" - Fa=1.0, Fv=1.5, Ss=1.4, S1=0.5). When wet stamps are ordered the seismic restraint system for Cone Bottom tanks offered by Snyder meets IBC 2018/CBC 2019 code with seismic loads less than or equal to 0.33g SDC "D" - Fa=1.0, Fv-1.5, SDS=1.105, SD1=0.597. If the requirement is greater than these design coefficients then you will need to contact Snyder to see if a system can be provided to meet the requirements for the site. This may change the price of the standard seismic system offered in Snyder’s Industrial Tank Price List. See question 8 for further explanation of Seismic Design Category (SDC).
  • If I have an insulated tank, where do the anchor plates get installed?
    The anchor plate would be located next to the insulation on the tank with the front face of the anchor weldment located next to the insulation. Do not remove any insulation to install the anchor plates. See section 8.2 to 8.4 in Snyder's Guidelines for use and Installation for complete instructions.

    Snyder's Guidelines for Use and Installation
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