How does it work?
As the name implies, these tanks are constructed on site from preformed steel sections. They are basically the same construction as used for agricultural grain, feed or fertiliser silos. Constructed from high quality structural grade steel, they have a heavy duty galvanised coating on both sides to protect against rust for many years.
The sections are supplied as a kit, therefore even for the larger sizes the transportation is much easier and cheaper than for complete pre-assembled tanks. Being created from sections also means that the range of sizes is huge, with different height and diameter options.
What are the options?
A basic steel tank will require a liner to be used for liquids of any sort. For water storage there are three options:
- EPDM which stands for Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer which is a synthetic rubber material and very durable. This is available in various thicknesses.
- Butyl Rubber – which is a natural rubber product. Also available in two thicknesses as standard.
- Special liners available if required for specific applications
Colour – whilst plain galvanised steel is the standard option, all of the tanks are available powder coated in most RAL colours, so you can even have them in your company colours.
Accessories – depending on the size, you may need an access ladder. No problem, these are available as accessories for the taller tanks.
Level indicators, valves, outlets, taps, pipework – all readily available in sizes to suit your individual application.
Roofs and covers – from a steel roof to completely protect the tank contents, to an anti-algae cover. PVC covers are probably the commonest and these are tensioned across the top of the tank.
Capacity – these tanks are available in capacities from 2000 litres up to 4,500,000 litres – which is quite large!
What can they be used for?
Not just water. Sectional steel tanks are suitable for a wide range of agricultural or industrial chemicals including liquid fertiliser or slurry. Please do ask if you want to use sectional steel tanks for any other liquid, as they may need a different type of liner from the standard options.
But even as water tanks they have a variety of uses. One of the most common is probably fire tanks – either for a direct firefighting water supply, or for a sprinkler system. Another common use is rainwater systems – as a storage and distribution tank for irrigation – think nurseries, garden centres, golf courses, sports grounds, private estates as well as farms. If you use an anti-algae cover the tank itself can absorb rainwater directly as well as from a roof water harvesting diverter. This type of cover is permeable, but protects against sunlight and consequent algal growth.
Open tanks indoors or out can be used for aquaculture (fish farming).
They have even been used for swimming pools.
Environmental aspects
Rainwater harvesting is a very important environmental aspect as it helps to protect groundwater by reducing the need for extraction.
Sustainability and recycling. Whilst these products will last for many years, we do have to consider what happens when they are no longer in use. Steel is easily recycled, even galvanised steel. Even the zinc from galvanising can be recaptured for recycling (Source: galvanizing.org.uk).