As seen on Water Online, July 15, 2020
Escalating environmental challenges, local and state regulations, and sustainable development initiatives are all playing a role in the evolution of new tank designs. Advanced wastewater treatment for limited and sensitive sites and rainwater harvesting for potable and non-potable water use are two major areas demanding new approaches to tank construction and use. The demand for lightweight, durable, easy-to-transport tanks to accommodate remote sites has catalyzed the increasing options for plastic. Additionally, elaborate water features in landscaping have been a boost to the development of new, smaller pump tanks.
Tank Materials
Tank materials have evolved based on applications and the size required, with tanks available ranging from 300 gallons up to 10,000 gallons for some plastic tanks. The most common tank size is approximately 2,000 gallons, which serves the bulk of the residential septic marketplace. Plastics and fiberglass are preferred for rainwater capture and potable water systems as both are inert to wastewater constituents, which is a benefit for tank longevity. For potable water systems, the tank must be constructed of virgin, not recycled, material.