Support steel bands

Steel Hold-Down Bands for Plastic Tanks

Are you installing a plastic tank on a trailer, truck or stationary platform? The hold-down bands must be designed for the specific tank model.

Steel bands secure certain tanks without applying the direct pressure on their walls that improperly positioned tie-down straps may create. They also help preserve the tank's shape during filling and use.

Agrico Plastics offers steel band kits designed for specific models of horizontal plastic tanks and rectangular plastic tanks.

Steel bands or tie-down straps: what's the difference?

Both methods secure a tank, but they work differently and offer different installation flexibility.

Securing a tank with tie-down straps

Straps must pass through the molded slots provided on the tank and extend to the anchoring points on the truck or platform.

This method has several limitations:

• The tank slots must align with the anchoring points, limiting positioning options.
• The straps press mainly against the top of the tank. Tightening can slightly flatten it without supporting its sides.
• Straps extend outward toward the anchors, reducing space available for other equipment.

Tank orientation may also be limited by the location of the molded slots and anchoring points.

Securing a tank with steel bands

Steel bands are designed to follow the tank's shape and fit into the molded spaces between its support legs. They are then bolted directly to the platform.

Unlike straps, properly installed steel bands do not need to compress the top of the tank to secure it.

They allow the tank walls some freedom to expand and contract during filling and emptying while keeping the tank in position.

Practical advantages include:

• No straps extending to distant anchoring points.
• More usable space around the tank for other equipment.
• Greater positioning flexibility, depending on the tank and platform.
• Support for the tank's shape without direct compression across its top.

Steel bands do not eliminate the need to verify platform strength, vehicle capacity and applicable transportation securement requirements.

Which plastic tanks require steel hold-down bands?

Manufacturer requirements depend on tank shape, series and capacity.

Required steel bands are already included with the corresponding tank. They do not need to be ordered separately.

For tanks with optional steel bands, compatible kits are offered directly in the accessories section of the tank's detailed product page.

Required steel bands must be installed according to the manufacturer's requirements, even for stationary installations.

Steel bands are not universal

Two tanks with similar capacities may have different shapes and dimensions. Steel bands are manufactured to fit specific tank models.

Do not select a steel band kit based only on the tank's gallon capacity.

When purchasing a new tank with optional bands, select the compatible kit directly from its product page.

If you already own a tank, identify its model number before ordering replacement bands. For example, the AR617452 and AR605202 kits are designed for specific horizontal tanks. The AR635532 kit is designed for a specific rectangular tank.

How many steel bands are needed?

The required number varies by tank model. Some kits contain two bands, while larger tanks may require three, four or more.

Never assume that a two-band kit fits every tank or remove a manufacturer-required band to simplify installation.

When steel bands are mandatory, the correct quantity is included with the tank sold by Agrico Plastics.

Installation: check the gap below the mounting feet

After positioning steel bands on certain horizontal tanks, a gap may remain between their mounting feet and the supporting platform.

This does not automatically mean that the bands are incompatible.

Depending on the model, suitable-length bolts or spacers may be needed. Do not force the bands downward to eliminate the gap.

Mounting bolts are not included with the kits.

Steel bands, transportation and tank configuration

Before preparing a truck or platform, consider the weight and density of the liquid, tank stability and the location of connections.

Horizontal tanks can be used for water transportation, agricultural applications, liquid recovery and certain industrial processes.

Plan the required bulkhead fittings, valves and Camlock connections before installation.

Our tank installation and use guide provides additional information about supporting and securing plastic tanks.

Agrico Plastics can also help you evaluate the tank and equipment required for your application through its technical consultation service.

Frequently asked questions

Are steel bands required on all plastic tanks?

No. They are required for cylindrical HL tanks of 725 US gallons and above and all elliptical EL tanks. They are optional for cylindrical HL tanks of 525 US gallons and below and for rectangular models where compatible bands are offered.

Are mandatory steel bands included with the tank?

Yes. Required bands are included and sold with the applicable tank. You do not need to add them separately.

Where can I find compatible optional steel bands?

They are offered as accessories directly on the detailed product page of the corresponding tank.

Can bands from another tank with the same capacity be used?

Not automatically. Matching capacity does not establish compatibility. Verify the exact tank model and steel band kit reference.

Is a gap below the steel band mounting feet normal?

Yes. Certain models have a gap that must be accommodated using an appropriate fastening method rather than forcing the bands downward.