Which Industrial Water Storage Container Is Safe?

Water scarcity is a common challenge faced by industries in peak demand durations. And one thing that helps is buffer water storage.

But what if the stock water storage gets contaminated? It will be of no use, right?

Although the water storage containers act as a buffer against scarcity, disasters, or unreliable supply systems. However, the quality of stored water is not guaranteed over time.

Container types and the environment under which the water is stored play a critical role in preserving or degrading water quality. Understanding these impacts can significantly help in long-term water storage.

This blog explores in detail how different water storage containers impact the water quality over time. Here are all the answers you need before finding your perfect tank!

Types of Industrial Water Storage Containers

So, what are some commonly used water storage containers for industrial or commercial purposes? Here we go:

• Plastic Water Tanks

Polyethylene and polypropylene are types of plastic that are used in the construction of water storage tanks. Plastic tanks are the most widely used water storage tanks for medium-capacity storage.

Talking about the composition, these tanks are mainly composed of HDPE, PP, or LLDPE. 

Although the food-grade variants are considered normally safe, however, long-term use, UV exposure, or poor quality tank construction can leach chemicals like BPA, phthalates, antimony and shed microplastics.

Prolonged use of these tanks may cause hormonal disruption, gastrointestinal issues, and microbial growth.

• Concrete / RCC Tanks

Concrete/RCC tanks are one of the traditional water storage methods. It is used for huge-capacity water storage. 

These tanks are composed of cement, aggregates, water, and reinforcing steel. While it is considered safe and durable when constructed properly, are they really safe?

Prolonged use can lead to chemical degradation like rebar corrosion, sulfate or alkali–silica attacks, or calcium leaching. All these issues result in cracks and structural weakening. 

Ultimately, this may cause seepage, microbial growth, unpleasant taste, and compromised water quality over time, leading to health issues.

• Fibreglass-Reinforced Plastic (FRP) Tanks

FRP tanks are another popularly used tank for water storage. But maybe not your friend in the long run. 

In the prolonged service, this may face several challenges. Their resin matrix can degrade under continuous UV exposure, leading to embrittlement and surface cracking.

Another issue is that poor-quality resins may leach harmful substances into stored water, compromising safety. Over time, microcracks and delamination can promote microbial growth and chemical contamination. 

These issues reduce structural integrity, shorten lifespan, and pose risks to long-term water quality.

• Stainless Steel Water Tanks 

Stainless steel water tanks are made from iron alloys with chromium and nickel, which form a protective layer that keeps corrosion at a distance.

Grade 304, with 18% chromium and 8% nickel, is durable, easy to weld and shape. Grade 316 goes a step further by adding 2-3% molybdenum, which makes it even more resistant to pitting and corrosion from chlorides or acidic conditions. 

This extra boost makes Grade 316 ideal for tough industrial environments. Both these stainless steel grades are perfectly safe for prolonged water storage. 

Read: Applications of Stainless Steel Water Tanks

Factors Affecting Water Quality in Industrial Storage

1. Material Composition: 

The type of tank matters because different materials interact with water differently. 

Plastics can break down and release chemicals when heated, bad metals can corrode, and concrete can make water more alkaline by leaching lime. 

Choosing the right material depends on whether the water is for industrial processes, cooling or drinking.

2. Chemical Leaching: 

Tanks made from plastic, coated steel or concrete can sometimes release substances into the water.

Plastics can leach additives when exposed to sunlight, and coatings like epoxy or bitumen can wear down over time. Metal tanks without proper linings can release iron, zinc or other metals.

3. Biological Contamination: 

Big tanks, warm temperatures and stagnant water are basically a playground for microbes. Algae, bacteria and biofilms can grow if tanks get too much sunlight, aren’t disinfected properly or aren’t sealed well. Porous materials like concrete or unlined surfaces make it even easier for microbes to settle in.

4. Physical Conditions: 

The environment around the tank also plays a role. Sunlight can promote algae growth and even damage plastics. Temperature swings can cause condensation, which encourages microbial activity. And if the tank isn’t sealed properly, dust, insects and airborne pollutants can get in, especially in open or neglected tanks.

Learn: Why Stainless Steel Are the Best 

Impacts of Different Tanks Over Time

Frequently Asked Questions about Water Storage Containers

• How long can water in tanks be safely stored?

Treated water in a suitable environment can be stored up to 12 months. Though it is advised to rotate the water every 6 months, irrespective of the water tank material.

• Which tanks are best for long-term storage?

Stainless steel water tanks are the best when it comes to safety and durability for long-term storage. 

• What signs indicate tank water is unsafe?

If the colour, taste, or odour, floating particles, cloudiness, or algae growth are there in the water or water tank, it is a sign that the stored water is unsafe to drink. Do a weekly routine checkup to avoid any contamination. 

• How should tank water be treated before use?

There are various options for water treatment. Some of them include boiling, chlorination, or using water purification tablets, which are effective ways to make stored water safe. Filtration systems can also help remove sediment and microbial contaminants.

• Where should water storage tanks be located?

Stainless steel water storage tanks can be safely placed even in areas exposed to direct sunlight. Since stainless steel blocks sunlight and prevents algae growth, they don’t require shaded or covered locations like plastic tanks often do

Conclusion

Safe water storage is not just about filling a tank;  it’s about the material, maintenance and conditions. 

Hope this blog has helped you understand different water storage containers’ materials and how they impact the water quality over time. 

Contact Beltecno today for expert advice and water storage solutions for your Industry!