In the potable water storage tank industry, we are faced with a variety of different styles and designs of potable water storage tanks made from a variety of different materials. One of the most common materials used in potable water storage tank construction is steel.
Steel has been used in major construction since the 19th century in buildings and skyscrapers. Since then, it has continued to play a vital role in the potable water storage tank industry.
Carbon steel is the most popular steel used. Various levels of carbon in the steel can be used based on the engineer’s specifications. Low to medium carbon steel is great for decorative or ornate pieces and medium steel is great for structural members in a building. High carbon steel is hard and less flexible.
There can be mixtures of steel and other alloying elements to change the physical properties. When adding manganese to the product, you get a sturdy and harder product. Adding aluminum to the steel you can provide a more uniform appearance in the finished product.
There are many benefits to using steel in construction and the water industry. The strength and durability of the finished product along with its ability to bend and flex allow engineers the ability to create roofs for water tanks over larger areas without the need for load-bearing support structures.
With the product being manufactured in fabrication shops and shipped to the sites to be welded or bolted together, it can reduce the time of installation in the field saving many thousands of dollars on labor.
Steel is also more resilient in natural disasters because of its ability to flex under extreme conditions instead of cracking like concrete. Steel can be painted and protected in a variety of products and colors depending on the environment.
