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UAN 28% Storage — Liquid Nitrogen Fertilizer Tank Specification

Storing Urea Ammonium Nitrate 28? Start Here

If you're dealing with Urea Ammonium Nitrate 28% (UAN 28), you're likely in the business of maximizing nitrogen delivery for crops like corn, small grains, or cotton. This liquid fertilizer is a water solution that blends ammonium nitrate and urea, offering a total nitrogen content of 28%. It's engineered to remain stable in colder climates, making it a go-to for winter storage in northern regions. Whether you're using it for side-dress, pre-plant, or fertigation, getting the storage right is crucial to avoid complications like salt-out, which can clog systems and damage equipment.

Can you store it in a poly tank?

Yes, you can store UAN 28 in a polyethylene tank. High-density polyethylene (HDPE) or cross-linked polyethylene (XLPE) tanks are suitable, especially when equipped with EPDM gaskets and 316 stainless steel bolts. These materials are recommended based on their compatibility with UAN's chemical properties and the demands of agricultural use.

Watch out for salt-out

One key issue with UAN 28 is its salt-out temperature, which is 1°F (-17°C). If the temperature drops below this point, ammonium nitrate can crystallize at the bottom of the tank, leading to blockages and potential equipment damage. To prevent this, consider using a tank heater and insulation, especially if storing through the winter in colder climates.

The safety that actually matters

  • Use EPDM gaskets for better long-term performance.
  • Ensure tanks are rated for at least 1.4 ASTM specific gravity.
  • Monitor temperature to prevent salt-out and maintain flow.
  • Inspect and maintain fittings regularly to avoid leaks.

Common questions

What type of tank is best for UAN 28?
HDPE or XLPE tanks with EPDM gaskets and 316SS bolts are recommended.
How can I prevent salt-out in my tank?
Use a tank heater and insulation to keep the temperature above 1°F.
Is UAN 28 safe for fertigation?
Yes, it has low vapor pressure, making it safe for fertigation with the right equipment.

UAN 28% storage tanks from OneSource

For uan 28% storage, specify HDLPE_OR_XLPE rated to specific gravity 1.35. Verified, compatibility-matched options:

Confirm chemical compatibility and a ZIP freight quote with our team at 866-418-1777.

Sources & References

All compatibility ratings, hazard classifications, and chemical identifiers on this page are sourced from authoritative third-party publications. Verify against the original references before final specification.

  1. Snyder Industries Chemical Resistance Recommendations — system-of-construction guidance for polyethylene chemical-storage tanks at industrial ASTM 1.9 SG design rating. SNY-3041 Chemical Resistance Chart. Snyder Industries, current edition. Resin + fitting + gasket + bolt MOC matrix.
  2. Equistar Technical Tip — Chemical Resistance of Polyethylene — LDPE / MDPE / HDPE rating chart by concentration and temperature, distributed by Enduraplas. enduraplas.com (PDF). Equistar polyethylene resin chemical-resistance data, distributed via Enduraplas.
  3. NFPA 704: Standard System for the Identification of the Hazards of Materials for Emergency Response. nfpa.org. NFPA 704 'fire diamond' health/flammability/instability/special-hazard rating system (0–4 scale).
  4. UN Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS), current revision. unece.org/transport/ghs. GHS pictograms, signal words, and H-statement codes referenced in this guide.
  5. ASTM D1998 — Standard Specification for Polyethylene Upright Storage Tanks, current edition. astm.org. Cited as the design-specific-gravity standard (typically 1.9 SG) for industrial chemical-service polyethylene tanks.
  6. NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards — occupational exposure limits, PPE, and IDLH data for Urea Ammonium Nitrate 28. cdc.gov/niosh/npg. CDC / NIOSH chemical-specific occupational-safety reference.

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