Storage tanks

Duplex stainless steels offer a powerful combination of strength, corrosion resistance, and lifecycle value – making them an optimal storage tank material for demanding industrial applications. With higher chromium and nitrogen content than standard stainless steel storage tanks, duplex grades like Outokumpu’s Forta range deliver superior performance in corrosion-resistant tanks used across chemical, biofuel, and water sectors.

Unlike 304L and 316L, duplex alloys have a lower nickel content, improving price stability and helping reduce total project risk. Their high strength allows for thinner walls, enabling up to 25% weight savings in steel storage tanks – cutting both fabrication time and material costs. This strength advantage, combined with high weldability and low thermal expansion, simplifies stainless steel storage tank design without compromising safety or durability.

When evaluating industrial storage tanks, considering lifecycle cost is just as critical as upfront investment. Duplex tanks require no coatings, reduce inspection frequency from 10 to 20 years under API 653, and significantly lower maintenance demands. This translates into measurable savings and higher operational uptime over decades of use.

Duplex is also a more sustainable choice. Outokumpu’s duplex grades are made with over 90% recycled content and have the lowest CO₂ footprint in the global stainless steel industry. For storage tanks that need to perform over decades – with lower weight, less maintenance, and stronger long-term economics – duplex isn’t just an alternative. It’s a smarter specification.