FAQ

1. What types of industries does Peak Processes serve?
 

At Peak Processes, we serve a wide range of industries that rely on reliable bulk material and fluid handling systems. These include mining, forestry, aggregates, grain handling, food processing, and chemical processing, as well as smaller operations with unique handling needs. Whether you're looking to optimize a material flow system, repair a chemical storage tank, or install a new fluid handling line, we tailor our services to meet the exact demands of your industry.

 

2. What services does Peak Processes provide for bulk material handling systems?

We offer complete solutions for bulk material handling systems — from flow testing and hopper design to chute optimization and custom fabrication. Using our in-house shear tester, we gather empirical data on your material’s behavior to inform design choices like discharge geometry, wall liner selection, and flow angles. We also provide retrofits for underperforming systems and material handling upgrades to reduce downtime and improve reliability.

​

3. Why is shear testing important for hopper and chute design?

Shear testing is essential to understand how your specific bulk material behaves under pressure and against various surfaces. At Peak Processes, we use a proprietary shear tester to measure internal friction and wall friction, which directly impact your hopper angles, critical outlet size, and flow behavior. Designing without this data often leads to bridging, rat-holing, or inconsistent flow — all of which cause costly downtime. Testing ensures your system works as intended, right from the start.

​

4. How does Peak Processes determine the best liner material for my application?

We determine the best liner material by testing your actual bulk solid against several potential liner options using our in-house shear tester. This allows us to measure wall friction and evaluate how each liner performs under stress — including common materials like TIVAR 88, UHMW-PE, mild steel, and stainless steel. With real data in hand, we can recommend the best-fit liner to prevent hang-ups, reduce wear, and optimize flow — especially in high-moisture or cohesive applications.

​

4a. How can polymer liners outlast steel (AR400) liners?

This is a question we get asked a lot in the heavy industrial sectors. While AR400 steel is known for its hardness, it can wear down quickly in high-abrasion or high-friction applications — especially with fine or sticky materials. Polymer liners like TIVAR 88-2 offer a much lower coefficient of friction, drastically reducing material wear, buildup, and flow resistance. Polymers also absorb less moisture, resist chemical attack, and are often quieter and easier to install, making them a more durable, low-maintenance solution in many
applications.

​

5. Can you repair existing thermoplastic or polymer tanks on-site?
 

Yes — Peak Processes offers on-site plastic tank repairs across Alberta and surrounding regions. Whether it’s a cracked RV holding tank, a leaking chemical process tank, or a failing seam on a storage vessel, we bring industrial-grade thermoplastic welding tools directly to your location. Our DVS-certified welding ensures that repairs are strong, permanent, and chemically resistant, even under tough conditions. We service polypropylene (PP), HDPE, PVC, and other common tank materials.

​

6. What types of custom polymer tanks can you fabricate?

We design and fabricate custom plastic tanks for a wide variety of applications — from chemical processing and water treatment to fertilizer mixing and food-grade storage. Every tank is built to suit the needs of your process, including shape, volume, connection fittings, and material compatibility. We work with polypropylene, HDPE, and other high-performance thermoplastics, ensuring long-lasting performance in harsh or corrosive environments.

​

7. Do you offer remote or emergency fabrication services?
 

Yes — we offer remote services and emergency repair response for critical bulk and fluid handling systems. Whether you’re dealing with a sudden equipment failure or an urgent process bottleneck, we can quickly mobilize to assess and stabilize the situation. Our mobile thermoplastic welding equipment, portable tools, and flexible design support allow us to work on-site, even in remote industrial settings.

​

8. What is the typical project timeline from consultation to installation?
 

Project timelines can vary depending on complexity, but most projects follow a clear process: Initial consultation and material review, testing and data collection (if applicable), design and modeling in SolidWorks, fabrication or procurement, and delivery and installation. Smaller jobs like repairs or small-scale tank fabrications can be completed in a few days, while larger projects usually take 2 to 6 weeks. We prioritize clear communication and realistic timelines, ensuring your system is ready when you need it — with no surprises.