Proper storage of CAS

Before we get into the main topic of the article, we should find out what UAN is and its importance in the agro-industrial sector. Urea-ammonia mixture (UAN) is a highly effective liquid fertilizer that is widely used in agriculture. It not only helps to increase crop yields, but also improves soil fertility. Its popularity is due to its ease of use, high efficiency and good solubility, which makes it an indispensable element of the plant nutrition system.

However, in order for UAN to retain its characteristics and not lose its effectiveness, it is necessary to comply with certain storage conditions and transportation rules. Violation of these requirements can lead to a change in the composition of the fertilizer, loss of its properties and even spoilage of the stored product. In this article, we will consider in detail the basic requirements for storing UAN, types of containers, their modifications, as well as safety measures and ways to optimize the storage process for maximum convenience for farmers. 

What are the main requirements for storing UAN?

High-quality storage of UAN can only be ensured by strictly observing a number of key rules, since the fertilizer has specific physical and chemical properties. The main requirements include:

• Temperature conditions. The optimal temperature range for storing UAN is from -5°C to +30°C. When the temperature drops, crystal formation is possible, which can lead to clogging of hoses and pumps when feeding the fertilizer. Excessive heating can cause evaporation of ammonia, which not only reduces the concentration of nitrogen in the fertilizer, but can also create an unpleasant odor and be dangerous for personnel.
• Tightness of containers. UAN easily interacts with air, which can lead to its partial loss and a change in composition. Therefore, it is extremely important to use sealed containers with minimal oxygen access.
• Material of manufacture. Containers (tanks, barrels, other types of tanks) for storing liquid nitrogen fertilizers must be made of corrosion- and chemical-resistant materials, such as special types of plastic or stainless steel with an anti-corrosion coating.
• Absence of contaminants. Storage must exclude the ingress of foreign substances into the fertilizer that can affect the chemical composition, worsen the properties, and thereby negatively affect the efficiency when applied to the soil.
• Storage location. Tanks with UAN must be placed on a flat surface, away from water bodies and sources of drinking water, to exclude the possibility of environmental pollution in the event of a spill.
• Control and monitoring system. It is important to regularly check the fertilizer level in the tanks, as well as monitor the integrity of the tanks to avoid leaks and possible emergency situations.

What tanks are used to store and transport UAN

Various types of tanks are used for storing and transporting UAN, which differ in the material they are made of, their design, and their intended purpose.

Metal tanks

Metal tanks are traditionally used to store liquid fertilizers. They are highly durable and long-lasting, but have several disadvantages:

• Susceptibility to corrosion, especially with constant contact with UAN.
• Need to apply an anti-corrosion coating, which increases the cost of operation.
• Large mass, complicating their transportation and installation.

Plastic tanks

Modern plastic tanks have a number of advantages over metal counterparts:

• Absolute corrosion resistance – polymer materials do not rust, do not oxidize, and do not require additional protection (anti-corrosion coating and additional protective painting).
• Lightweight – simplifies transportation, installation and maintenance.
• Durability – plastic is resistant to mechanical damage and aggressive effects of UAN.
• Flexibility in use – plastic tanks are available in various volumes and shapes, which allows you to choose the best option for specific operating conditions.
• Efficiency – the cost of plastic tanks is lower compared to metal ones.

In addition, depending on how to store UAN, tanks are conventionally divided into mobile and stationary. As a rule, mobile tanks are chosen for prompt transportation of UAN to the place of application and are convenient when working in large areas. They can be installed on trucks, trailers or special transport platforms. As for stationary (warehouse) tanks, they are designed for long-term storage of fertilizers at chemical industry enterprises, agricultural enterprises and farms. Usually, the designs of such tanks are characterized by large capacity and are equipped with various additional equipment.

Additional equipment for UAN tanks

Depending on the purpose of use, UAN can be stored in tanks of the following modifications:

• With heating – prevents fertilizer crystallization in the cold season, ensuring composition stability.
• With a mixing system – allows maintaining a uniform concentration of nutrients and prevents sedimentation of solid particles.
• With additional equipment – such as filters, pumps, pressure control valves and automatic dosing systems.

Safety rules

In order for UAN to retain its original qualities for a long time without changes, without harming others, it is necessary to strictly observe the following safety rules:

• Compliance with sanitary standards – prevent fertilizer from entering water bodies and groundwater.
• Use of specialized containers – prevents spills and leaks.
• Monitoring the condition of tanks – regular checks for leaks and integrity.
• Staff training – employees must be familiar with the rules for handling UAN, including emergency measures in case of a spill or leak.
• Availability of emergency means — the storage area must have absorbent materials and equipment for prompt elimination of spills.

Advanced methods for optimizing UAN storage

Optimization of UAN storage includes the use of modern solutions. One of such solutions is plastic containers from the KRAFT company. They are highly durable, resistant to chemical influences and ensure reliable storage of UAN and other types of liquid fertilizers. KRAFT containers are adapted to various climatic conditions, easy to use and fully comply with modern standards for the long-term preservation of liquid fertilizers. In addition, the company, as a leading manufacturer of industrial plastic products in Ukraine, offers not only a wide range of standard models, but also manufactures custom-made plastic containers. Thanks to this, the client can choose the most suitable option for specific farm conditions.

Proper storage of UAN is the key to its efficiency and safety. Compliance with all requirements, selection of optimal containers and use of modern technologies help minimize fertilizer losses and increase the profitability of agricultural production. With a competent approach to storing UAN, it is possible to significantly reduce costs and increase the yield of agricultural crops.