Vienna optimizes winter services with Polem brine storage

Frosty nights without stress: how Polem helped Vienna master winter with smart brine storage and salt dissolution

Vienna, renowned for its culture and classical music, faces another seasonal ritual each winter: snow and ice. For effective road treatment, efficiency is critical—there’s no room for delay or error. Together with Blumer & Lehman, Polem delivered three composite brine storage tanks and a salt dissolver that helped Vienna face winter with more control and less worry.

Challenges and analysis

Austria’s winter service faced several complex challenges. It wasn’t just about storing large quantities of brine efficiently, but also maintaining the correct mix ratio and ensuring reliable operation under extreme conditions. Metal corrodes. Plastic deforms. And continuous access to brine was essential to keep the city safe for residents and tourists alike.

Another key requirement: Vienna demanded long-term durability and minimal maintenance—something traditional storage systems could not guarantee.

Solution and implementation

Polem supplied three high-quality composite brine tanks and an advanced salt dissolver. The tanks are specifically engineered to resist both corrosion and chemical stress. With high insulation value, the brine stays at a consistent temperature—crucial to prevent crystallization.

The salt dissolver ensures a precise, stable salt-water ratio, critical for effective ice prevention. Together with Blumer & Lehman, the system was seamlessly installed at Vienna’s winter service site. Commissioning went smoothly with zero service interruptions.

Results

The results were clear:

100% fault-free operation during the first winter season.
Minimal maintenance thanks to corrosion-resistant materials.
Optimal brine mixture ratios, reducing salt and water waste.
Rapid tank drainage due to intelligent design and materials.

Vienna could rely on a robust system that delivered exactly what was promised: safety, efficiency, and reliability—even in the harshest weather.

Lessons learned

This project highlighted the value of working with partners who not only deliver, but truly understand end-user needs. Through custom design and premium materials, the result wasn’t just a product—it was a long-term solution.

What went well: the close collaboration between Polem, Blumer & Lehman, and Vienna’s winter service team.

Conclusion

This case proves how smart materials and thoughtful design can transform performance in a traditional sector. Where other systems fail in freezing conditions, Polem delivers. Today, Vienna is more prepared than ever for the winters ahead.

FAQ

Why did Vienna choose composite tanks from Polem?
Composites offer high resistance to corrosion and chemical exposure, which is crucial for brine storage. They are also lighter and provide better insulation than metal or concrete.
What exactly is a salt dissolver?
A salt dissolver mixes salt and water in a precisely balanced ratio—essential for effective ice control. This creates ready-to-use brine for road treatment.
How does insulation affect brine tank performance?
Insulation prevents the brine from cooling and crystallizing, which can lead to blockages or reduced effectiveness. Polem’s tanks maintain the mixture's usability, even in sub-zero conditions.
What makes this solution sustainable?
The tanks require minimal maintenance and last for years without material degradation. This reduces replacement needs, cuts costs, and supports environmental goals.
Can this system be implemented in other cities?
Absolutely. The solution is scalable and adaptable to local conditions. Cities with different climate demands can also benefit from Polem’s technology and expertise.