Project Overview
Bio-Dome Tanks
Somerset, UK
Project Overview
Steel Dynamics recently played a critical role in supplying stainless steel for the construction of bio-dome tanks used in the agricultural industry. The bio-dome tanks, situated in Somerset, are designed to capture and store bio-gas produced from organic waste such as livestock manure and crop residues, required materials that could withstand the challenging conditions of agricultural environments while ensuring long-term durability and reliability.
Steel Dynamics advanced processing capabilities, large stock of high-quality stainless steel, and commitment to meeting short lead times allowed them to deliver a tailored solution to the customer, helping to drive innovation in the agricultural sector.
Bio-dome tanks are used in the production of bio-gas, a renewable energy source generated through the anaerobic digestion of organic waste. These tanks feature a domed roof that captures the bio-gas produced during the digestion process, which can then be used as a fuel source for electricity generation that powers the farm and provides energy to the local community. Bio-dome tanks are increasingly being used in agricultural operations as part of sustainable waste management systems, helping farmers reduce their reliance on fossil fuels while minimising the environmental impact of organic waste.
After consultation with the customer, Steel Dynamics recommended the use of 316L stainless steel, a grade known for its excellent corrosion resistance, particularly in environments where chloride-induced corrosion or acidic conditions are present. The addition of molybdenum in 316L stainless steel enhances its ability to resist corrosion, making it an ideal material for bio-dome tanks that must endure the harsh conditions created by decomposing organic matter.
Steel Dynamics involvement went beyond simply supplying the stainless steel. The company’s Computer-Aided Design (CAD) service played a crucial role in optimising the use of the stainless steel plates for this project. Using CAD technology, Steel Dynamics was able to streamline the entire fabrication process, from the initial design phase to the final cutting of the stainless steel plates.
The advanced CAD system allowed for optimum material usage, reducing waste and ensuring that the customer received exactly what they needed with minimal surplus. This also helped reduce the number of manufacturing steps and drove down overall cycle times, contributing to one of the fastest lead times available in the industry.
To meet the customer’s specific requirements, Steel Dynamics utilised their 14M x 4M waterjet cutting machine, the largest of its kind in the UK. This state-of-the-art equipment enabled Steel Dynamics to cut large stainless steel plates with extreme precision, ensuring that the materials fit perfectly into the bio-dome tank structure.
By supplying high-quality 316L stainless steel and utilising cutting-edge technology in both the design and manufacturing processes, Steel Dynamics helped the customer meet the rigorous demands of the agricultural industry. The bio-dome tanks made from this stainless steel are designed to last for many years, even in the face of continuous exposure to moisture, organic acids, and gases produced during anaerobic digestion. The corrosion resistance of the stainless steel ensures that the tanks maintain their structural integrity, reducing the risk of leaks or damage that could compromise the bio-gas production process.
