If you’re facing a worn-out or damaged 18 inch manway on your storage tank, tank trailer, or processing equipment, understanding replacement costs and brand options is critical to staying on budget. On average, replacing an 18 inch manway costs $1,500 to $5,000, depending on materials, certifications, and installation complexity. Below, we break down the key cost factors, compare top brands, and highlight why Eagle stands out as a budget-friendly yet reliable choice—especially for sanitary and industrial applications.
Average 18 Inch Manway Replacement Cost Breakdown
The total cost includes two main components: the manway unit itself and professional installation. Here’s a typical range:
| Cost Component | Price Range | Key Factors |
|---|---|---|
| Manway Unit (18 inch) | $800 – $2,500 | Material (stainless steel vs. carbon steel), certifications (sanitary/industrial), brand. |
| Installation Labor | $700 – $2,500 | Tank type (vertical/horizontal), location (indoor/outdoor), need for welding/sealing. |
What Drives the Price Up?
- Stainless Steel vs. Carbon Steel: Stainless steel (304 or 316 grade) costs 2–3x more than carbon steel but resists corrosion—critical for food, pharmaceutical, or marine applications.
- Sanitary Certifications: Manways with FDA, 3A, or ASME BPE认证 (required for dairy, breweries, or biotech) add $300–$800 to the unit cost.
- Custom Features: Hinged doors, pressure ratings (over 150 PSI), or specialized gaskets (silicone, Viton) for high-temperature environments increase costs.
Brand Comparison: Which 18 Inch Manway is Right for You?
Choosing the right brand depends on your budget, industry, and compliance needs. Here’s how leading options stack up:
1. Eagle: Best for Budget-Conscious Sanitary Applications
Price: $800 – $1,500 (unit cost) | 30–50% cheaper than premium brands
Eagle has carved a niche in affordable, high-quality manways, making it a top pick for small-to-medium businesses. Key advantages:
- Certifications Galore: Meets FDA, ASME, and 3A standards, ideal for sanitary settings like craft breweries, food processing plants, or cosmetic manufacturing.
- Stainless Steel Durability: Uses 304 stainless steel (standard) or 316 (for harsh chemicals/saltwater) to resist rust and bacterial buildup.
- Universal Fit: Designed to replace manways from top brands (Tankfab, Cherry-Burrell) without modifications, saving on installation time.
Best For: Dairy farms, craft distilleries, and pharmaceutical labs needing compliance on a tight budget.
2. Tankfab: Premium Industrial-Grade Manways
Price: $1,800 – $3,000 (unit cost)
Tankfab is a go-to for heavy-duty industrial use, favored by oil refineries and chemical plants. Their 18 inch manways feature:
- High-Pressure Ratings: Handles up to 300 PSI, suitable for hazardous materials (acids, fuels).
- Custom Engineering: Options like quick-release clamps or explosion-proof locks for high-risk environments.
Best For: Large-scale industrial facilities with specialized safety requirements.
3. Stainless Steel Products (SSP): Mid-Range Versatility
Price: $1,200 – $2,000 (unit cost)
SSP balances quality and cost, offering both sanitary and industrial models. Their 18 inch manways are popular in:
- Water Treatment Plants: Carbon steel models with epoxy coatings for rust resistance.
- Beverage Production: Sanitary stainless steel options with smooth interiors for easy CIP (Clean-In-Place) processes.
Best For: Municipal facilities and mid-sized manufacturers needing flexibility.
When to Invest in Sanitary/Stainless Steel Manways
If your operation involves food, pharmaceuticals, or beverages, cutting corners on materials is risky. Sanitary 18 inch stainless steel manways (like Eagle’s stainless steel models) prevent:
- Bacterial growth in crevices (thanks to polished surfaces).
- Contamination from rust or corrosion.
- Failed inspections (critical for FDA or EU food safety compliance).
For industrial settings (e.g., oil storage, wastewater tanks), carbon steel manways may suffice—but factor in long-term maintenance costs (painting, rust repairs) which can add up over time.
Tips to Reduce 18 Inch Manway Replacement Costs
- Compare Quotes: Installation labor varies by region—get 2–3 bids from certified tank technicians.
- Buy Direct: Brands like Eagle sell direct to customers, skipping distributor markups.
- Prioritize Certifications Only When Needed: If you’re not in a sanitary industry, carbon steel manways cut costs by 40–60%.
Final Thoughts
Replacing an 18 inch manway doesn’t have to break the bank. For sanitary applications (food, pharma), Eagle offers unbeatable value—30–50% cheaper than premium brands with all the necessary certifications. For industrial use, Tankfab or SSP may be worth the splurge for specialized features. Whatever your needs, focus on material quality and installation expertise to avoid costly replacements down the line.