What is ISO Tank Containers?
While tank containers are known for transporting liquid products, ISO tank containers are produced according to ISO standards (International Organization for Standardization) and are designed to carry both hazardous and non-hazardous liquids in bulk. These containers are made of stainless steel and are surrounded by various protective layers. Depending on the cargo, different outer linings can be used. The container has a manhole at the top and has at least one valve, with another valve at the bottom. They are cylindrical in shape. Since ISO tanks are produced according to ISO standards, the frame in which the tank sits is approximately 6 meters long, 2.4 meters wide, and between 2.4 – 2.5 meters in height, varying in size and type, and can carry between 21,000 and 40,000 liters of liquid.
What Can Be Carried in ISO Tank Containers?
ISO tank containers are designed to transport hazardous and non-hazardous liquids in bulk. These containers are specifically designed and certified to ensure the safe transport of liquids. There’s a wide range of materials that can be transported, but below is a general list of common materials that can be carried in ISO tank containers:
Chemicals: Acids (e.g., sulfuric acid, hydrochloric acid)
Alcohols: methanol, ethanol
Bases Solvents Fuels: Diesel Jet fuel Marine fuels
Foods: Vegetable oils (e.g., palm oil, sunflower oil) Wines Fruit juices Liquid sugars
Industrial Gases: Liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) Liquid oxygen Liquid nitrogen
Other liquid substances: Water (drinking water, wastewater) Liquid bitumen Liquid plastics Hazardous Materials: Toxic liquids Flammable liquids Radioactive materials (in special containers)
This is just a subset of the materials that can be transported in ISO tank containers. It’s essential to remember that specific regulations and requirements might apply to transport a particular substance. Therefore, you should refer to the relevant regulations and transportation requirements before transporting any substance.
What are the Benefits of ISO Tank Containers?
ISO tank containers are multifunctional and flexible transport units specifically designed for the transportation of liquids. There are numerous benefits to using ISO tank containers:
Safety:
ISO tank containers offer a secure solution for transporting particularly hazardous liquids. They are durable since they are made of stainless steel, providing extra protection against leakage.
Cost-Effectiveness:
These containers are more cost-effective for transporting liquid loads compared to other methods. Their adaptability across multiple transport modes (road, sea, rail) helps reduce logistical costs.
Environmental Benefits:
ISO tank containers minimize environmental impacts by reducing the risk of liquid spills. Their multi-use nature also helps reduce waste.
Flexibility:
They are available in different sizes and capacities, making them suitable for various liquid quantities and types.
Efficiency:
Due to their high capacities, they allow for the transportation of large amounts of liquid, advantageous in situations where vast amounts of liquid need to be transported.
Easy Storage and Stacking:
Designed according to ISO standards, they can be easily stored and stacked.
Reduced Processing Times:
ISO tank containers facilitate quick filling and emptying processes.
Reusability:
ISO tank containers are durable and can be used multiple times, offering cost savings in the long run.
Control and Monitoring:
Some modern ISO tank containers are equipped with features to control and monitor the temperature of the contents, vital for transporting specific liquids.
International Compatibility:
Since they’re produced according to ISO standards, they are widely accepted in international transportation and can be used in many countries.
These benefits make ISO tank containers a preferred choice for international liquid transportation.