FRP Building Products Used for Tank Farm Roof Canopy Structure

The acid storage tanks require overhead cover and protection from rain and weather. The project was to replace the previous canopy constructed of steel materials that experienced acid corrosion due to the highly aggressive, chemical environment. The roofing panels and primary/secondary structural members will continuously be exposed to chemical vapors, high humidity and Florida’s high wind pressure and weather. To eliminate corrosion concerns and realize significant life-cycle cost savings, the client needed materials that would stand up to the application’s corrosive elements. Another important element for the client was to have an aesthetically pleasing, light-transmitting cladding with increased UV stabilization.

Tuff Span™ FRP roofing panels, FRP primary and secondary framing and FRP gutter system manufactured by Enduro Composites were chosen for this facility due to the application requirements. Tuff Span™ panels utilize premium, isophthalic polyester resin for superior corrosion resistance and increased UV protection designed for environments with continuous exposure to acids. Tuff Span™ 12F12 (primary) and 8F6 (secondary) beams, also utilizing iso-polyester resin, are a tubular flanged shaped beam providing long span framing capabilities without the use of lateral bracing and a limited amount of clips. This system greatly reduces corrosion concerns and installation costs. Tuff Span™ panels are offered in a wide range of opaque and translucent colors with premium UV inhibitors and shop applied acrylic polymer coating. White translucent roofing panels were chosen providing an aesthetically pleasing appearance while increasing natural light under the canopy. These noted benefits of Tuff Span™ will provide a long-term, structurally performing canopy system.