Did you know that semiconductor giant TSMC used around 101 million cubic meters of water in 2023?
That single fact shows just how essential water is to the chip industry, but few people realise how deeply connected water is to every step of semiconductor production.
Whether it is delicate wafer cleaning or precision cooling, water runs through every part of a fabrication plant. What most people don’t see is the quiet system that makes it all possible.
So how do these high-tech facilities secure enough clean, reliable water to keep production going non-stop?
The answer lies in a piece of infrastructure you might have heard about, and it’s more important than you might think. So, let’s dive in and find out!
Making chips is one of the most water-intensive processes in the world. A single fab can use millions of litres of water a day. It’s needed for cleaning wafers, diluting chemicals, cooling machines and even fire protection systems.
But not just any water can be used. It has to be pure water, so clean that even a trace of dust or metal can damage a wafer. Keeping that level of purity across large volumes is a big challenge.
As technology advances, the demand for chips keeps growing. Artificial intelligence, electric vehicles and 5G devices all need more chips, which means more water. Many semiconductor industries are now being built in areas that face water shortages, so water storage and security become critical.
Large stainless steel tanks help the semiconductor industries to prepare for these challenges. They store both treated and untreated water, act as a buffer when supply fluctuates and ensure the plant can keep running even if there’s a short-term disruption.
Read about: Stainless Steel Water Tank Applications
Large water tanks are the silent supporters of semiconductor manufacturing. They may not be visible on the production floor, but they make sure everything keeps moving behind the scenes.
Here’s how they help:
Tanks act as buffers between the incoming water and the treatment systems. If there’s a drop in supply or pressure, they step in to keep the flow steady.
Water flow must stay consistent for delicate semiconductor processes. Tanks help maintain stable pressure across different operations, protecting equipment from damage.
Water goes through multiple stages of purification, such as filtration, reverse osmosis, and UV treatment. Tanks hold water between these steps, ensuring smooth operation and constant flow.
Cooling systems depend on chilled water. Tanks store and stabilise this water, adding thermal balance and backup capacity in case of power loss or equipment failure.
Tanks are also part of the plant’s fire safety system. Dedicated fire-water tanks ensure that firefighting systems always have enough water available.
With these roles, tanks help fabs manage both day-to-day operations and unexpected issues without interrupting production.
Read about: Stainless Steel Tank Material Grades
In semiconductor manufacturing, even an hour of downtime can mean huge losses. Production stability depends on having enough clean water ready at all times.
If the main supply from the city or treatment plant stops, stored water keeps the production line running until the problem is fixed.
Treated water is stored in stainless steel tanks that prevent dust, corrosion, or contamination. This helps maintain purity for sensitive processes.
Read: Why Stainless Steel Water Tank is Trusted for Safety
Water demand changes throughout the day. Tanks make it easy to balance flow and usage, especially during maintenance or production changes.
If a power outage or natural disaster occurs, stored water ensures that critical systems like cooling and cleaning continue to work.
Many fabs reuse water. Tanks store reclaimed water safely for further treatment or non-critical use, reducing dependency on municipal supply.
These benefits make water tanks essential for both stability and long-term sustainability in chip manufacturing.
Not every industrial tank can meet semiconductor standards. The tanks used in these facilities must be precise, clean, and made to last.
Stainless steel is the preferred material, especially grades like SS304 or SS316. These resist corrosion and do not release impurities into the water.
The inner surface of the tank should be smooth to avoid particle buildup. Many are electropolished to make cleaning easier and prevent microbial growth.
Tanks must be sealed to stop dust and contaminants from entering. They also need easy access for cleaning and maintenance.
Sensors track water level, temperature, pressure, and purity. These connect to automated control systems for real-time monitoring.
Tank size and placement depend on how water flows through the plant. Multiple tanks may be installed for raw, treated, and ultra-pure water to avoid mixing.
For tanks that store chilled or hot water, insulation is added to reduce energy loss and prevent condensation.
When designed properly, these tanks perform reliably for years, maintaining water quality and operational efficiency.
Every semiconductor fab needs a backup plan. Water tanks play a huge role in managing risks and emergencies.
If water quality drops or a treatment unit fails, the plant can switch to stored water. This prevents production delays and product loss.
When the municipal supply or pumps fail, tanks provide enough water to keep the fab running until systems are restored.
Dedicated fire-water tanks are always kept ready for emergencies. They ensure immediate response when needed.
When production increases or new chip designs are introduced, water demand can rise suddenly. Tanks handle these fluctuations without straining the system.
Tanks also help fabs meet water management regulations by enabling reuse, storage, and conservation.
By including large water tanks in their infrastructure, fabs build resilience and reduce risks before they turn into major issues.
Q1) How to select the best water tank?
Select a water tank based on your usage, space and material. Stainless steel tanks are strong, hygienic and long-lasting.
Check for corrosion resistance, insulation and easy maintenance before buying.
Read: Why Beltecno Stainless Steel Water Tanks are Best for IT and Data Centres.
Q2) How to calculate the required capacity of a water tank?
Calculate your daily water consumption, number of users and purpose: domestic, commercial or industrial.
Multiply your average daily usage by storage days to get the ideal capacity. This will ensure a water supply without over-sizing the tank.
Q3) What are the benefits of large water tanks?
Large water tanks ensure a steady water supply, reduce dependence on external supply and help in high-demand situations.
They are ideal for industrial and agricultural applications, providing long-term efficiency, stability and cost savings in water storage and management.
Water may not seem as critical as semiconductors, but it’s just as important.
Every process in chip manufacturing requires clean, consistent and reliable water, and that’s exactly what large stainless steel tanks deliver.
As global demand for semiconductors increases, water management is becoming a top strategic priority. The right tank system doesn’t just support production, it supports reliability and growth.
Investing in the right tank system is not just a technical choice but a strategic one.
Need a customised large water tank for your facility? Contact us today!