Ever felt like you’re drowning in a sea of technical jargon when it comes to FRP water storage tanks? We’ve all been there. Terms like “volume,” “full capacity,” and “usable capacity” get thrown around like floaties in a hurricane, leaving you unsure of how much water your trusty tank can actually hold. But fear not! This ultimate guide dives into the depths of FRP tank sizing so you can emerge with a crystal-clear understanding.
Volume vs. Capacity: The Key Differences
Understanding the difference between volume and capacity is crucial for selecting the right FRP tank for your needs. These measurements are typically expressed in cubic feet (ft³), cubic meters (m³), gallons (gal), or liters (L). Here’s a practical breakdown:
Understanding Volume
In simple terms, volume refers to the amount of space inside the tank. Think of it as the physical size of the tank’s interior – how much water it can hold without considering any other factors. Volume is an essential aspect when considering the physical dimensions of the tank and how much space it will occupy on your property.
Volume Calculation Example:
Consider a rectangular tank with the following dimensions:
Length(L) = 4meters or 13.12feet
Width(W) = 2meters or 6.56feet
Height(H) = 2meters or 6.56feet
Total Volume: L x W x H = 4m x 2m x 2m = 16 m³ or approximately 4,200 gallons
Capacity and Its Different Types
When it comes to FRP water storage tanks, capacity plays a crucial role in determining how much water you can actually store. But capacity isn’t a one-size-fits-all concept. There are different types to consider, each offering a slightly different picture of your tank’s water storage potential.
Full Capacity or Actual Capacity
Full capacity is the maximum volume of liquid the tank can safely hold, accounting for design and safety considerations. This figure is the total tank volume minus the freeboard.
Freeboard: Freeboard (FB) is the vertical distance between the maximum water level and the top edge of the tank. It is included in the tank design to prevent overflow, accommodate wave action, and ensure safe operation. Typically, the freeboard is about 12 inches but can be as low as 6 inches in some cases. In seismic areas, the freeboard may be increased to provide additional safety .
Full Capacity Calculation Example:
Using the example above,
Let’s consider a standard freeboard of 12 inches, equivalent to 0.3 meters (m) in metric terms.
Water Depth: Subtracting the freeboard from the total height provides the water height inside the tank. For example, with a total height of 2 meters, subtracting 0.3 meters (freeboard) gives us 1.7 meters.
L x W x (H – FB) = 4m x 2m x (2 – 0.3)m = 13.6 m³ or approximately 3,500 gallons
Usable Capacity or Effective Capacity
Usable capacity is the portion of the tank’s total volume that can be practically used from the stored liquid. It excludes any space that is not practically usable, such as freeboard, dead space, and other safety margins. Usable capacity provides a realistic measure of the tank’s effective storage capability.
Dead Space: Dead Space, also referred to as Vortex Plate level or Mudd Level (ML), represents the area at the tank’s bottom beneath the outlet, which may not be effectively utilized.
Usable Capacity Calculation Example:
Continuing with the same example,
Let’s assume a standard freeboard of 12 inches, which equals 0.3 meters (m) in metric terms, and a Mudd Level (ML) of 6 inches, which equals 0.15 meters (m) in metric:
Usable Water Depth: Subtract the freeboard and mudd level from the total height to determine the usable height for water storage. In this case, 2 meters (total height) – 0.3 meters (freeboard) – 0.15 meters (mudd level) = 1.55 meters (usable height
L x W x (H – FB – ML) = 4m x 2m x (2 – 0.3 – 0.15)m = 12.4 m³ or approximately 3,270 gallons
Note: It’s important to acknowledge that some FRP tank designs, like those with outlets on the bottom panels, can potentially achieve full capacity as usable capacity. However, this is highly dependent on the specific tank design and application. Always consult the manufacturer’s specifications and recommendations for the most accurate information.
The Bottom Line
By considering volume and capacity, you can avoid underestimating your water storage needs. For further assistance in calculating usable capacity and selecting the optimal tank size, consult with a qualified water storage professional like FTC Tanks. With the right knowledge and guidance, you can ensure your FRP water storage tank delivers optimal performance and reliable water supply for years to come.At FTC Tanks, we understand the unique requirements of each project and are prepared to address your specific water storage needs. Our team of experts is ready to assist you in selecting the right container size based on your unique situation, especially when navigating the complexities of FTC’s ODD Shape tank designs. Contact us today to unlock the full potential of your water storage system.
