Making oil storage tanks from PVC pipe

Scribing lines is a possibility which gives finely detailed lines but a lowered reverse/inward effect.  However, an inexpensive way to create raised lines on storage tanks is to use  painter's/masking/auto detail tape and spray paint.

• Mark w/ a pen or pencil where you want to create your raised seams.  First I do all the horizontal lines and when completed, finish with the vertical lines. 
• Place the tape edge to the top/bottom (left/right) of those lines - almost touching - so there is a very, very tiny gap that follows the weld seam around the cylinder.  Try to make sure that your tape edges are fully adhered.
• Then spray a coat of gray primer paint over the masked PVC cylinder.  The paint fills the gap creating a raised line.  You can adjust the thickness by the amount of paint applied.
• Once dry, remove the tape to reveal the raised effect.
  You can fine tune the paint build-up or possible paint bleed through with sand paper or small file.  Continue the same process for the vertical seams.
• Attach any glue on details that will be the same color as the finished tank
• Once all seams are established to your liking, follow-up with a very light coating of primer over the entire PVC piece.
• Spray paint your finish color over the primer.
• Attach remaining add-on details and decals.
• Seal w/ clear/dull/satin coat if desired.

Nice technique, Keystone!

Do you use multiple light coats or a few heavy coats?

It depends on how well you tape, the auto primer paint spray nozzle pattern, and what look you prefer.  If your placing a bunch of these tanks in a distant area of the layout, you might not be too fussy with the details.

Also besides PVC material you might also find ABS plastic cylinders and caps in the plumbing or outdoor drainage department of the hardware store.

I must give credit to Keith's (CandO f/k/a SunfireGT1996) smoke fluid oil gas tank storage building thread from fall '92 of getting me to think of inexpensive ways to create the raised seam look.  Bondo also works in place of paint, but I thought auto primer spray paint gives a finer line and more control on the amount of buildup.

Thanks for the great technique Keysonte (and CandO), I never would have thought of it myself.  -Ken