TEC Container Solutions is highlighting the growing role of flexible, modular and fit-for-purpose storage solutions in supporting the evolving demands of the speciality bitumen market. From polymer modified bitumen (PMB) to crumb rubber and bond coat emulsions, the industry is increasingly recognising the need for equipment tailored to each product’s unique handling requirements.
In recent deployments across the UK and Australia, TEC’s MEST Bitutainer™ has demonstrated how a dedicated, modular tank solution can provide both the flexibility and control that conventional storage systems often lack.
A Shift in Industry Mindset
While advancements in product formulation continue to accelerate, driven by performance demands, environmental targets and temperature resilience, the same cannot always be said for storage infrastructure.
Frequently operators adapt existing tanks for new and more sensitive products, leading to poor temperature retention, product degradation, or inefficient site setups. Similarly, standard bitumen pumps operating at high RPMs can cause emulsions to shear or separate, particularly in systems that require recirculation.
“Across the industry, we’ve seen high-spec pumps deployed for specialist products, but tanks are often still an afterthought,” says TEC’s Jon Whittall. “As products become more advanced, so must the equipment used to store and deliver them.”
Addressing Practical Challenges On-Site
In one recent project, TEC supplied a MEST BitutainerTM to support on-site distribution of bond coat emulsion. The product required gentle heating and daily recirculation to maintain quality. The MEST’s automated heating system and programmable recirculation cycle eliminated the need for manual intervention to ensure product quality, while the fully self-bunded tank removed the need for additional containment infrastructure.
In another deployment, a world leading contractor required reliable storage of crumb rubber-modified bitumen, which has unique agitation and temperature stability requirements. The MEST BitutainerTM was configured to meet these specific handling requirements, providing a compact, tailor made and relocatable solution for regional asphalt projects.
These use cases underscore a growing truth, traditional tanks often fall short when applied to specialist products that demand tighter thermal control, recirculation, or product-specific pumping systems.
Fit for Purpose, Built for Performance
The MEST BitutainerTM is self-contained, turn-key storage unit, featuring a sealed equipment compartment that can be tailored to each product’s operational profile. From high efficiency electric heating and automated agitation, to custom transfer pipework configurations and safety interlocks, the system is designed to simplify on-site logistics while protecting the quality of high-performance materials.
Because the tank is double-walled, fully insulated and self-bunded, it removes the need for civil works or bund construction. Its standard 40ft footprint makes it easy to relocate between project sites, offering a truly flexible solution for operators managing diverse product types across multiple locations.
Looking Ahead
As the usage of niche and modified bitumen continues to grow, alongside the pressure to reduce waste, improve operational efficiency and meet environmental standards, TEC is committed to providing infrastructure solutions that evolve with the market.
From packaging-free storage alternatives for PMBs to precision handling of delicate emulsions, the MEST BitutainerTM is enabling contractors to move away from reactive adaptations and towards purpose-built systems that prioritise efficiency, safety and performance.
About TEC Container Solutions
TEC Container Solutions is a global provider of specialist equipment for the transport and storage of bitumen, fuel oils and infrastructure products. With a deep understanding of the industry’s operational and technical demands, TEC delivers customisable, high-performance tanks and services that support every stage of the logistics chain.
To find out more about the MEST Bitutainer™ or to discuss your speciality bitumen storage requirements, visit TEC Container Solutions’ website.
