What material are most below ground level storage tanks typically made of?

Most below ground level storage tanks are typically made of concrete due to several key advantages that this material offers. Concrete has excellent durability and strength, which are essential for withstanding the pressure of surrounding earth and any potential load above it. This resilience makes it less susceptible to corrosion, which can be a significant concern in underground environments where moisture and other corrosive agents might be present.

Concrete also has beneficial thermal properties, helping to maintain consistent water temperatures. This can be crucial for water quality management. Additionally, concrete can be easily molded into various shapes and sizes, allowing for customization to fit specific site requirements and capacity needs.

While other materials like steel or fiberglass may also be used for specific applications, they have limitations in terms of protection against corrosion (steel) or may be more susceptible to impact damage (fiberglass). Plastic tanks typically are not robust enough to be used below ground, especially in environments where structural integrity is critical. This leads to concrete being the preferred choice for underground storage solutions in water distribution systems.