Water storage is a crucial part of industrial, municipal, and commercial applications. To ensure a reliable supply of water for different needs, various types of tanks are available to store it efficiently. It is essential to select the appropriate water storage solution based on material, capacity and intended use.
In this article, we will explore what tanks are used to store water—specifically providing insights into field-erected tanks designed for large-scale storage solutions. Additionally, we will discuss different water storage tanks, their classifications, and how to choose the best option for specific applications.
What Tanks Are Used to Store Water?
To suit various industrial and civil engineering needs, water storage tanks come in multiple designs, materials, and sizes. The types of water tanks in civil engineering include:
- Field-Erected Tanks: Used for municipal water storage, industrial applications, and firefighting reserves, field-erected tanks are typically large and custom-built on-site.
- Bolted Steel Tanks: Modular and easily assembled, these tanks are used in both commercial and industrial applications.
- Concrete Tanks: Offering durability and resistance to environmental factors, these tanks are common in municipal and agricultural sectors.
- Fiberglass-Reinforced Plastic (FRP) Tanks: Lightweight and corrosion-resistant, FRP tanks are ideal for potable water storage.
- High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) Tanks: Used for smaller applications such as residential water storage and rainwater collection, polyethylene or HDPE tanks are also quite cost-effective.
- Underground Water Tanks: These tanks are ideal for space-saving applications and are also designed for groundwater storage.
What Are the Three Types of Water Storage Tanks?
Based on their application and functionality, there are three primary types of water storage tanks—
- Potable Water Tanks: Used for drinking water supply, these tanks must comply with health regulations and be constructed from food-grade materials such as stainless steel, polyethylene (HDPE), or fiberglass.
- Non-Potable Water Tanks: Made of materials like reinforced concrete or coated steel, these tanks store water for industrial processes, irrigation, and fire suppression.
- Emergency Storage Tanks: Typically used for disaster preparedness, these tanks provide backup water reserves for municipal and commercial facilities.
What Are Water Storage Tanks Called?
Different industries refer to types of water storage tanks by various names, depending on their function and design. To follow are some of the common terms you may come across—
- Reservoir Tanks: These large-scale water storage structures are used in municipal water supply systems.
- Cisterns: Cisterns are typically used for rainwater harvesting and underground water storage.
- Sump Tanks: Found in industrial plants, these tanks collect and store water for secondary use.
- Bladder Tanks: Flexible and portable, these storage solutions are for temporary or emergency use.
- Pressure Tanks: Used in water distribution systems, pressure tanks maintain consistent water pressure.
How Long Can Water Sit in a Holding Tank?
The storage duration for water in a tank depends on several factors, including the material used in the tank’s construction, environmental conditions, and usage frequency. The best material for water tanks plays a significant role in maintaining water quality.
- Stainless Steel Tanks: Resistant to corrosion and bacterial growth, stainless steel is ideal for long-term potable water storage.
- FRP Tanks: Fiberglass-reinforced plastic storage tanks prevent algae and microbial contamination, making them suitable for extended storage durations.
- Plastic Tanks (Polyethylene & PVC): These tanks are best for short- to medium-term storage, as they may degrade under UV exposure over time.
- Concrete Tanks: Great for storing water for extended periods, concrete tanks also require proper sealing to prevent water contamination.
For potable water storage, recommendations are to rotate stored water every six months and to use water treatment methods like chlorination to maintain quality.
Selecting the right water storage tank is essential for ensuring a stable, dependable water supply in industrial, municipal, and commercial settings. Understanding the different types of water storage tanks and their applications will help you make an informed decision for your project’s needs. Whether choosing field-erected tanks for large-scale projects or polyethylene tanks for short-term storage, the right choice enhances efficiency and safety.
Contact Kennedy Tank for more information on our years of expertise in constructing water storage tanks—both in-shop and at your site. We’ll put our 125 years of experience to work building the best storage tank solution for your application.
