The D15 ePTFE membrane vent plug is a universal pressure management component for a wide spectrum of agricultural and industrial chemical storage applications. From on-farm chemical storage containers to industrial tank closures, this 15mm plug provides reliable, long-term protection against pressure-induced structural failures. Its fully encapsulated ePTFE membrane offers a broad chemical compatibility profile, handling everything from liquid fertilizers to process chemicals. Molded with a versatile HDPE housing, it can be welded or press-fit into drums, tanks, and container lids, making it a go-to choice for OEMs, chemical distributors, and storage system builders seeking a standardized, high-performance venting solution.

Long-term chemical storage presents unique challenges. Over months or years, even stable chemicals can generate trace gases, and ambient temperature cycles relentlessly pump pressures up and down. Large industrial containers and agricultural storage tanks may be located outdoors, exposed to solar heating and cold nights. Without appropriate venting, these containers can experience metal fatigue, welded seam cracking, or plastic creep rupture. Additionally, storage containers often need to be sealed against rainwater, insects, and airborne contaminants—requirements that simple open vents or bellows cannot satisfy without compromising pressure balance.

The D15 ePTFE membrane vent plug solves these long-term storage challenges with a completely passive, maintenance-free design. Once installed, it immediately begins regulating the container’s internal atmosphere. The ePTFE membrane provides a massive surface area for gas transmission relative to its size, ensuring that even large-volume containers breathe efficiently. The membrane blocks external water, dust, and microbial ingress, preserving the chemical’s quality. The plug form factor makes it easy to retrofit into existing container lids or incorporate into new designs. It supports the push toward closed-loop chemical management by preventing fugitive emissions while maintaining operator safety.

• Stationary farm liquid fertilizer storage tanks
• Industrial chemical tote containers and day tanks
• Agricultural aviation chemical mixing and loading systems
• Drums storing hydraulic oils and lubricants (indoor/outdoor)
• Water treatment chemical storage containers
• Any bulk or intermediate chemical storage container requiring IP68 breathability

The plug operates on the principle of gas permeation through a selectively permeable membrane. The ePTFE membrane is composed of a micro-fibrillar structure with extremely high void volume. When the internal pressure of the storage container differs from ambient, gases diffuse through this structure to equalize. Liquids and solids are physically excluded due to the nanoscopic pore size and the membrane’s inherent non-stick surface. The vent plug’s rugged HDPE housing protects this delicate membrane from mechanical impact, UV radiation, and direct liquid impingement, making it suitable for exposed outdoor environments.

1. Determine your container volume and required breathing capacity: larger tanks or those subject to rapid temperature changes need vents with higher airflow.
2. Verify chemical compatibility: consult a chemical resistance chart for ePTFE and HDPE with your specific stored chemical.
3. Select installation type: welding is permanent and leak-proof; press-fit is removable; threaded adaptors allow replacement.
4. Consider environmental factors: for intense UV exposure, ensure the HDPE body includes UV stabilizers; for sub-zero temperatures, confirm low-temperature impact resistance.

• Q: Can multiple D15 vents be used on a single large tank?
  A: Yes, you can install multiple vents to increase total airflow capacity, placing them at high points to avoid liquid blockage.
• Q: Does the vent prevent the entry of volatile organic vapors from the outside?
  A: It allows gas exchange in both directions. If external VOC contamination is a concern, an activated carbon pre-filter can be added on the external side (custom solution).
• Q: Will spiders or insects block the vent?
  A: The membrane’s pore size is too small for any insect or debris to penetrate. The smooth, non-stick surface does not provide a foothold for spiders to nest.
• Q: How do I install this vent in an existing metal drum lid?
  A: We can supply a HDPE backing plate and gasket set for mechanical compression fitting, or you can weld it into an HDPE bung adaptor.
• Q: Is this vent suitable for highly flammable liquids?
  A: Yes, it allows breathing to prevent flammable vapor-air mixtures from building pressure, but ensure the entire container system meets ATEX or local flame-arrestor requirements. The vent itself is not a certified flame arrestor.