Ferrocement water tanks 1

[phuduhudu]

I have a client who wants a water tank of 45m3 so he figured dims of 5m by 3m by 3m for an underground tank. Now structurally a water tank is far more efficient if it is cylindrical but then formwork is much more difficult. I have a very good book on DIY ferrocement tanks but it is very much a DIY book. How do we as engineers spec hand placed or sprayed on concrete and can we be as sure of it's quality as conventional concrete? If I recommend to the client to use a circular tank I will have to produce the specs and drawings. This is hardly any different to a swimming pool with a concrete slab for a roof and for swimming pools the swimming pool guys just get on with it and do it themselves.

Carl Bauer

http://www.bauerconsultbotswana.com

 

[civilperson]

What is the question? Shotcrete or gunite applications are common for many applications. Factory manufactured glass reinforced plastic of the stated dimensions are very economical and can be delivered in a short time.

 

[phuduhudu]

Yes, I could use a GRP tank but it would need a cover as they want to landscape over it. Also I would be worried about soil pressures on it when it is empty. The question really is how is the quality controlled on shotcrete or gunite. I have never had experience of using it and neither will most local contractors. Like I say the closest we get are the swimming pool contractors who apply the mortar to the reinforcing mesh against the soil by hand.

Carl Bauer

http://www.bauerconsultbotswana.com

 

[MiketheEngineer]

You could probably buy a tank.

 

[civilperson]

The standard elliptical domed fiberglass tank has sufficient strength for a moderate bury, (not truck traffic). The walls and roof may be easily strengthened with ribs or thickened section.