Let’s Dive into Bel-Art Tank Pe Rect W/LID+FCT 5GLN H340920000
The Bel-Art Tank Pe Rect W/LID+FCT 5GLN H340920000 isn’t your typical piece of tactical gear; it’s a laboratory storage container designed for a specific purpose. Manufactured by Bel-Art, this 5-gallon rectangular polyethylene tank with a lid and faucet offers a solution for storing and dispensing liquids in a lab environment. Its resistance to acids and alkalis makes it a seemingly robust tool, but let’s see how it holds up under scrutiny.
I needed a reliable container for storing a custom cleaning solution I use for preserving sensitive optics in my gear maintenance business. Many containers I’ve tried react with the solution, leading to degradation or contamination, so I was hunting for something chemically inert.
Upon unboxing, the tank felt surprisingly lightweight. The polyethylene material seemed durable, but the overall build quality appeared more utilitarian than rugged. I was curious to see if it could withstand the rigors of repeated use.
Compared to other containers I considered, such as stainless steel drums or glass carboys, the Bel-Art tank offered a more affordable and lightweight alternative, although potentially sacrificing some durability. I opted for this tank due to its advertised chemical resistance and the integrated faucet, which would make dispensing the cleaning solution much easier.
Initially, I was cautiously optimistic. The tank seemed well-suited to my needs, but I had reservations about its long-term durability and the quality of the faucet. Only time and usage would tell if it lived up to expectations.
Real-World Testing: Putting Bel-Art Tank Pe Rect W/LID+FCT 5GLN H340920000 to the Test
First Use Experience
My primary testing ground was my gear maintenance workshop, where I used the tank to store and dispense the optics cleaning solution. I subjected the tank to repeated filling and dispensing cycles over several days. The tank sat on a sturdy workbench and endured several temperature fluctuations.
The Bel-Art Tank Pe Rect W/LID+FCT 5GLN H340920000 performed adequately during initial use. The faucet dispensed the solution smoothly without any leaks, and the lid sealed tightly, preventing evaporation. I was pleased with the ease of use, but the polyethylene material did feel a bit flimsy when the tank was full.
However, the plastic faucet worried me slightly. It felt less robust than the rest of the tank and potentially prone to damage.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the Bel-Art Tank Pe Rect W/LID+FCT 5GLN H340920000 has held up reasonably well. There are no signs of chemical degradation, and the polyethylene material hasn’t warped or cracked. The lid still seals tightly, and the faucet continues to dispense the solution without leaks, which is a major relief.
However, there’s now visible wear and tear on the faucet handle. Constant turning has caused the plastic to show stress marks. The tank is relatively easy to clean with soap and water.
Compared to my previous experiences with reactive containers, the Bel-Art tank has been a significant improvement. It has successfully stored the optics cleaning solution without any adverse effects, but I’m not convinced it’s a long-term solution due to the faucet’s fragility.
Breaking Down the Features of Bel-Art Tank Pe Rect W/LID+FCT 5GLN H340920000
Specifications
- Description: TANK PE RECT W/LID+FCT 5GLN. This is the core identifier of the product, indicating a polyethylene rectangular tank with a lid and faucet, holding 5 gallons.
- Material: Rotational molded polyethylene. This offers resistance to most acids and alkalis, making it suitable for storing a wide range of chemicals.
- Capacity: 5 Gallons (18.9 Liters). This is a decent amount of storage, though users should consider whether 5 gallons is sufficient for their needs.
- Shape: Rectangular. This shape likely saves space compared to a round tank.
- Includes: Lid and Faucet. The inclusion of a lid and faucet makes the tank a complete storage and dispensing solution.
These specifications matter because they define the tank’s functionality and limitations. The polyethylene material dictates its chemical compatibility, while the capacity determines its storage volume.
Performance & Functionality
The Bel-Art Tank Pe Rect W/LID+FCT 5GLN H340920000 performs its primary job—storing and dispensing liquids—adequately. The rectangular shape is efficient for space utilization, and the faucet provides a controlled dispensing mechanism.
However, the plastic faucet remains the main weakness. Its long-term durability is questionable.
The tank meets expectations in terms of chemical resistance and dispensing functionality, but I have reservations about its overall build quality. A sturdier faucet would significantly improve the product’s value.
Design & Ergonomics
The tank features a simple, utilitarian design. The rectangular shape and integrated faucet are practical, but the overall aesthetic is uninspiring.
The lightweight polyethylene material makes it easy to handle, even when full. There is no noticeable learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The polyethylene material appears durable and resistant to chemical degradation. However, the plastic faucet is the most vulnerable component.
The tank is easy to clean with soap and water, but care must be taken when handling the faucet. A more robust faucet design would drastically improve the tank’s durability.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Bel-Art Tank Pe Rect W/LID+FCT 5GLN H340920000 comes with a lid and a plastic faucet. There are no included or officially supported customization options.
Given its intended purpose, customization options are limited. Replacing the faucet with a more robust alternative might be possible, but compatibility would need to be verified.
Pros and Cons of Bel-Art Tank Pe Rect W/LID+FCT 5GLN H340920000
Pros
- Excellent chemical resistance, suitable for storing a wide range of liquids.
- Integrated faucet for easy and controlled dispensing.
- Lightweight and easy to handle, even when full.
- Space-saving rectangular shape.
- Relatively affordable compared to other chemically resistant storage solutions.
Cons
- The plastic faucet feels flimsy and prone to damage.
- Overall build quality is utilitarian and not particularly rugged.
- Limited customization options.
Who Should Buy Bel-Art Tank Pe Rect W/LID+FCT 5GLN H340920000?
This tank is perfect for: Laboratories, workshops, or anyone needing to store and dispense chemically sensitive liquids in a controlled manner. It’s well-suited for applications where chemical resistance and easy dispensing are paramount.
Who should skip this product? Anyone needing a highly durable or portable storage solution should seek alternatives. If the dispensing is needed in rugged environments, a sturdier tank with a metal faucet would be a better choice.
A must-have modification would be sourcing and installing a higher-quality faucet, if possible. This would significantly extend the tank’s lifespan and improve its overall reliability.
Conclusion on Bel-Art Tank Pe Rect W/LID+FCT 5GLN H340920000
The Bel-Art Tank Pe Rect W/LID+FCT 5GLN H340920000 is a decent, affordable solution for storing and dispensing chemically sensitive liquids, especially in laboratory or workshop settings. Its chemical resistance and integrated faucet are valuable assets.
However, the tank’s value proposition hinges on whether the user is willing to accept its primary weakness: the flimsy plastic faucet. The price is justified for those prioritizing chemical resistance and controlled dispensing over long-term durability.
I would cautiously recommend it, with the caveat that the faucet should be handled with care. For specific applications like storing optics cleaning solution, it does the job effectively, but be prepared to potentially replace the faucet down the line. If you need a reliable, chemically resistant storage container and are mindful of the faucet’s limitations, this Bel-Art tank could be a worthwhile addition.