Concrete Tanks Key Terms

Understand the ABC's of concrete tanks

By Howard Robertson

Concrete tanks are one of the most reliable ways to store materials — liquid or solid. Concrete tanks are gaining popularity in various industries, such as agriculture, plumbing and chemicals, due to their durability and ease of cleaning. Whether you want to use concrete tanks for commercial or domestic applications, you will need to be conversant with certain key terms that you will hear from the suppliers. This guide explains some of the common terms associated with concrete tanks, such as prestressed concrete, poured on site and pre-molded concrete tanks, septic tanks and stock tanks.

"Poured on site" concrete tanks

Concrete tanks are often "poured on site" using a steel mold. This mold is later removed to reveal the entire tank.
Try: For information regarding "poured on site" tanks, you can refer to Rainwater Tanks Direct. Additionally, you can refer to Adelaide Hills Concrete Tanks.

Pre-molded concrete tanks

Pre-molded concrete tanks are delivered to the site in a complete form. Depending on the size of the tank, these tanks can be in two to three parts. These parts are later assembled on site and sealed from inside using a sealant.
Try: Rain Harvesting offers information about pre-molded concrete tanks.

Concrete septic tanks

Septic tanks are tanks through which sewage or wastewater flows slowly. This enables the sewage solids to settle to the bottom of the tank where they are processed anaerobically. This reduces the volume of the solids. The tank is cleaned at regular intervals, usually once every one to five years.
Try: Online Concrete Restoration offers an explanation of concrete septic tanks.

Concrete stock tank

A concrete stock tank provides drinking water for livestock.
Try: Visit the Concrete Works for more information on concrete stock tanks.

Pre-stressed concrete

As the name indicates, pre-stressed concrete has heavily loaded wires or bars to counteract the load on concrete.
Try: Portland Cement Association has technical information about pre-stressed concrete.

Pre-cast concrete

Pre-cast concrete is a type of concrete that is cast in a reusable mold and then processed or cured in a controlled environment. It is then transported to the construction site and placed in position. Pre-cast concrete tanks are extremely durable and efficient.
Try: Visit the Singapore Environment Council for a definition of precast concrete. You can also refer to NEPCA for more information about precast concrete.