Ever wondered “Why are water tanks cylindrical”. It’s a common question we get asked a lot. There are several practical and engineering reasons for water tanks being cylindrical. This shape offers numerous advantages in terms of strength, efficiency and material use. We’re going to go into more detail below…
Structural Strength
The main reason water tanks are cylindrical is because this shape evenly distributes the pressure exerted by the stored liquid. Assume that the liquid is water. The water creates outward pressure on the walls of the tank. But, because the tank is cylindrical, that pressure is spread evenly, (symmetrically) along the entire surface. This minimises weak points and helps the tank withstand the high, internal (hydrostatic) pressure, even if the volume of water increases.
Square or rectangular tanks, on the other hand, are more prone to stress and structural damage because the water pressure tends to concentrate on specific points, (asymmetric load or pressure).
Efficiency
Another reason why water tanks are cylindrical is because this shape is the most efficient use of materials. This means that a cylindrical water tank can hold the same amount of water as a square or rectangular tank, whilst using less material. This is because:
- A cylinder has no corners or flat sides, so its curved surface can contain the same amount of water whilst remaining structurally solid.
- A square tank, on the other hand, would need more material for the walls because the flat sides experience the most pressure, meaning they need to be thicker and stronger.
By making water storage tanks cylinder-shaped, engineers get the best balance between strength and materials used. This means they can create reliable, light products that are also cost-effective.
Better Water Quality
In a square/rectangular tank, the corners are prone to collecting dirt, sediment or debris. Over time, these areas become harder to clean because they trap these particles, which then means the water quality is reduced.
In a cylindrical tank, however, the round walls allow the water to flow more evenly. There are no areas for debris to build up so the tank is easier to drain and clean too.
FAQs
Why are cylindrical tanks more cost-effective?
Cylindrical water tanks are most cost-effective because they need less material to store the same amount of water as a square or rectangular tank. This is because the curved shape of a cylinder is more efficient. It needs less reinforcement to handle the internal pressure, which reduces the overall cost of materials.
Can a cylinder tank improve the quality of the water?
Yes, a cylinder tank can improve the quality of water. This is because there are no corners where sediment, dirt and debris can build up. Not only is there less chance of build-up, but cylinder tanks are also easier to clean and drain when compared to a square or rectangle tank.
Are there any downsides to the cylinder tank shape?
The biggest drawback is that a cylinder tank might not make the best use of space, especially if your site is tight on space. The round shape of the tank means they leave unused space between the tank and the surrounding walls.