Hi Bob, it wouldn't think you need any more than 20-30 ton to press out CMP tanks. To get an even pressing it all relies on the top press die and by that I mean getting an even distribution of power to all paints to stop deflection. I assume you are using a garage press style which is a single point of power. You could simply use very thick steel or thinner and fabricate with lots of bracing (Gussets) That's the method I used. The base of my top one is 10mm thick and have put a number of triangle gussets around. I never got any deflection at all and I was pressing 16g If you have access to a press brake, that would be even better and mine is only a 40tonner.
I never put baffles in my tanks as they are well supported in a carrier unlike a truck hanging on the side.
I mig welded the ends in doing vertical downs where possible but yours being thinner would probably be better to Tig them.
I tested mine with an air fitting in the fuel pickup point with about 60psi and did the old soapy water which shows up the smallest of leaks. You could use some sealant as well.
Good luck and post photos.
Colin.
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