There are two methods of manufacture in the panel tank industry, the MMD (Matched Metal Die) method and the SMC (Sheet Mould Compound) method. The MMD method is Sekisui's own exclusive design and continues to be the most effective method for manufacturing tank panels today. All other tank manufacturers use the SMC method. The MMD method uses long continuous filament of glassfibre in a mat form, adding resin and then submitting the mixture for the final moulding process. In retrospect, the SMC uses short, chopped strands of glassfibre and resin in a "clay-like" mixture.
Each of the long glass fibres used in Sekisui tank panels are woven together in the form of a mat. Further, each individual fibre strand is made by weaving together even finer strands in much the same way a rope is made.
Tensile Strength | |
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Note: Sekisui tanks attain Singapore Standard "SS245" at 6 times working pressure under hydrostatic pressure tests. | |
MMD Sekisui | 85 - 105MPa |
SMC Company A | 58.8 - 100MPa |
Hand Layup Company B | 39.2 - 68.6MPa |