During the initial phases of project design, the process of configuring and selecting a water storage tank typically takes place. Factors such as construction timelines and overall project costs are carefully weighed, particularly in terms of securing funding available. Since many municipalities depend on a single water storage source, the design of the tank becomes pivotal in meeting both current and future community needs.
Assessing various aspects such as existing and anticipated water supply demands, site conditions, pressure requirements, long-term maintenance considerations, accessibility, and overall costs are crucial details that inform the final selection process for tank configuration.
Manufacturing Process
The technology and manufacturing process of this equipment distinguish it from painted steel or concrete structures. By utilizing a factory manufacturing process, uncontrolled variables are minimized compared to field-manufactured products like painted steel or concrete tanks. Factors such as worker experience and extreme climatic conditions, which notably impact in-field manufactured products, have minimal influence on the glassing process. Moreover, since the tanks are fabricated in the factory and only require assembly of components in the field, they can be erected year-round.
Coating
Each storage tank undergoes a coating process, with options today including paint, concrete, or glass. The impermeability and properties of glass offer distinct advantages.
The process of applying a glass coating begins with glass frit, which is mixed with other minerals and water to create a liquid slurry. This slurry is then precisely sprayed by robots onto steel sheet panels that have undergone cutting, rolling, punching, grit-blasting, and cleaning. These panels are then heated to 1500°F in a furnace. This intense heat melts the silica glass slip onto the grit-blasted steel surface, establishing both mechanical and chemical bonds between the steel and the silica glass.
In contrast to other tank coatings, which rely solely on a mechanical bond, the chemical bond strength of glass is significantly higher. This prevents undercutting of the coating, which could lead to corrosion spreading on the primary steel material. To better understand this benefit, consider a scratch on a car. With a coating that only has a mechanical bond, corrosion will occur if the steel is exposed. If left untreated, this corrosion can propagate beneath the surrounding painted surface, compromising the remaining coating.
Signs of this include raised bubbles, spreading rust, and weakened substrate. The chemical bond provided by the glass-fused-to-steel coating prevents corrosion from spreading even if the coating is compromised.
Tank Construction
During the assembly of a glass-coated bolted steel storage tank, a jacking system is utilized. Initially, the tank’s top ring is assembled on the jacks once the starter sheet (bottom ring) is either embedded in the concrete foundation or constructed using a glass-fused-to-steel floor design. Subsequently, the tank’s roof is installed, and both the ring and roof are elevated using jacks. Each subsequent ring is then bolted together beneath the top ring, with a urethane sealant applied between the seams.
The tanks are constructed from the top downwards, allowing for a safer and more efficient construction process. Typically, the erection process is completed within a week or two, resulting in cost savings for the owner if prevailing wages for on-site labor are utilized. Additionally, the manufacturer requires all construction crews to undergo factory training and certification in the erection process to ensure quality control in the field.
Maintenance/Life Time Value
Glass-coated bolted steel tanks offer an extended lifespan due to the permanent nature of the glass coating, eliminating the need for repainting. These tanks are commonly selected for locations where maintaining a visually appealing appearance over the long term is crucial. Funds allocated for repainting painted tanks or refurbishing aging concrete structures can be conserved and reallocated to other municipal projects.
Flexibility
The bolted design and assembly process of this product provide flexibility. The need for extensive staging areas typically required for on-site manufacturing is eliminated since production takes place in a factory. Construction of the tank typically requires only a cleared area of 6 to 10 feet around its diameter. This compact footprint can result in significant cost savings for the overall project, as well as for the tank itself. The panels are lightweight and can be hand-carried, making assembly straightforward without the need for cranes or specialized equipment. Consequently, this tank can be installed in numerous locations where other types of tanks would be impractical.
Expandability
The design of glass-coated bolted tanks enables vertical expansion. In the event of community or industrial growth requiring increased capacity, the tank’s jacking process allows the user to quickly and cost-effectively expand capacity. A factory-trained construction crew proficiently executes the process by removing the bottom ring from the initial starter sheet, raising the tank using jacks, and adding the necessary number of rings to achieve the new capacity. Notably, when these tanks undergo expansion, there is no discernible distinction between the original and additional panels.
Our friendly and experienced customer service team can help you more about the proper installation of a new water tank construction. We offer tried and tested services around Houston, Texas and Longbeach, California.
Call Tank Inspections Vegas by American Tanks at +1 800 656 0167
Or email at info@tankinspections.vegas
