Coatings And Linings For Water Storage Tanks

The purity of our drinking water is a never-ending concern. At the local level, it must be stored in containers made of material that will keep the water safe from contamination and bacterial growth.

That's why all water storage tanks--constructed of any material--require protective coatings and linings.

Steel Facts: Coatings and linings for water storage tanks offers information and explanation about protecting potable water storage tanks. In addition, the document explores the advantages of steel versus concrete construction.

"The porosity and unevenness of uncoated concrete surfaces enhances bacterial attachment and biofilm growth," according to a research study by Water Systems Engineering, Inc. Concrete can crack and leak when subjected to seismic activity or annual freeze/thaw cycles in colder areas.

The solution lies in applying today's low-VOC, high-elasticity coatings and linings to tanks built of welded steel. Steel is more flexible than either concrete or plastic, giving it longer durability. There are water storage tanks still in use that are 100 years old or more!

Coatings and linings for water storage tanks is the latest in STI/SPFA's series of Steel Facts documents. These handy pages present facts and figures about the benefits of steel tanks, researched by industry experts. The Steel Factsseries includes:

• Coatings and Linings for Water Storage Tanks
• Steel: The First Choice for Large-Diameter Water Pipe
• Newer Fuels and Storage Tank Corrosion
• Sustainable Steel
• The Strength of Steel
• Choose Steel for Lifetime Value
• Steel Tanks: Compatible with All Biofuel Blends
• Cathodic Protected Tank Inspection

Steel Facts files are downloadable from the STI/SPFA website and can be shared electronically or printed in quantity.

Steel Tank Institute/Steel Plate Fabricators Association (STI/SPFA)
STI/SPFA is a not-for-profit trade association whose member companies fabricate steel tanks, pipe and pressure vessels for use in the petroleum, food, water and chemical processing industries. For more information, visit our website.