Water Tank Corrosion Problems and how they Impact Your Storage System
Corrosion is one of the most common and costly issues affecting large water storage tanks. Whether a tank is made from steel, concrete, GRP, or lined materials, corrosion can gradually damage the structure, reduce water quality, and shorten the tank’s service life. Understanding water tank corrosion problems is essential for facility owners who want to maintain a safe, efficient, and reliable storage system. This guide explains what corrosion is, why it happens, the early warning signs to look for, and how it affects the performance of your water tank. What are Water Tank Corrosion Problems? Water tank corrosion problems occur when the interior or exterior surfaces of a tank begin to break down due to chemical reactions, moisture exposure, or environmental conditions. Over time, corrosion can weaken the tank walls, cause leaks, contaminate stored water, and lead to expensive repairs. Corrosion may appear as surface rust, pitting, scaling, discoloration, coating failure, or structural weakening. While steel tanks are most commonly affected, all types of water tanks can experience deterioration if they are not properly maintained. Common Causes of Corrosion in Large Water Tanks Corrosion can develop for many reasons. Some of the most common causes include: 1. Constant Water Exposure Continuous contact with water—especially untreated or high-mineral water—creates ideal conditions for corrosion. 2. Chemical Reactions Chlorine, salts, and certain minerals in the water can react with tank surfaces, accelerating material breakdown. 3. Environmental Factors Humidity, extreme temperatures, and industrial surroundings can damage exterior surfaces and coatings. 4. Poor Maintenance or Infrequent Inspections Tanks that are not inspected regularly are more likely to develop unnoticed corrosion issues that worsen over time. 5. Coating or Liner Failure Protective coatings and linings wear down with age. Once protection fails, corrosion can begin rapidly. 6. Sediment Accumulation Sediment at the bottom of the tank can hold moisture and bacteria, contributing to localized internal corrosion. Understanding these causes helps facilities take preventive steps before corrosion becomes a costly problem. Early Signs of Water Tank Corrosion Spotting corrosion early can prevent serious damage and expensive repairs. Some of the most common warning signs include: If any of these signs appear, it’s important to investigate promptly. How Corrosion Impacts Your Water Storage System Corrosion is more than just a visual problem—it affects the entire performance of a storage system. Here are the main risks: 1. Structural Damage Corrosion weakens the tank walls and roof over time. Severe corrosion can lead to cracks, holes, panel failure, or even full structural collapse in extreme cases. 2. Water Contamination As tank materials break down, contaminants may enter the water supply. This affects water quality and can be especially dangerous in potable water systems. 3. Leaks and Water Loss Corrosion often leads to leaks, which waste stored water, increase operating costs, and cause damage to surrounding structures. 4. Reduced Capacity and Efficiency Sediment and corrosion buildup reduce the effective volume of the tank and place extra strain on pumps and connected systems. 5. More Frequent Repairs Left untreated, corrosion spreads quickly. What starts as a small patch of rust can turn into major repair work, taking the tank out of service unexpectedly. 6. Shortened Tank Lifespan Without proper monitoring, corrosion can force early replacement of an otherwise functional tank—resulting in major capital expenses. Understanding these impacts emphasizes why early detection and prevention are essential. Best Practices to Prevent Water Tank Corrosion While corrosion cannot always be avoided completely, there are proven methods to minimize its impact: Implementing these preventive measures helps keep water tanks in safe and reliable condition. When Should You Inspect Your Water Tank? Most tanks should be inspected at least once every one to two years, depending on their age, usage, and the type of water they store. Inspections help identify early corrosion problems, measure coating or liner wear, and ensure the tank remains compliant with industry standards. If corrosion has already developed, a refurbishment may be necessary to restore the tank’s condition. Conclusion Water tank corrosion problems can significantly impact the safety, performance, and longevity of a storage system. By understanding what causes corrosion and recognizing early warning signs, facility owners can take proactive steps to protect their assets. Regular inspections, proper maintenance, and timely refurbishment help prevent serious deterioration, ensure safe water quality, and extend the overall lifespan of large water tanks.
Water Tank Corrosion Problems and how they Impact Your Storage System Read More »
