Install the tank in an upright position, supporting the entire base of the tank on a solid level surface. Ensure that the area is free from any rocks, sharp edges/iron bars or any debris.
The area for installation must be solid, level, compacted base that extends beyond the diameter of the tank. For solid stable bases the following can be used:
Bricks
Concrete
Gravel with sand top surface between 300mm and 400mm in depth
Leave sufficient space between the tank and any surrounding structures to allow for expansion when the tank is filled up. Recommended space is minimum 150mm all around. Position the tank ensuring best access for filling, maintenance and safety.
Ensure the tank is protected from strong winds (especially when empty). If necessary strap it down.
Connect all pipework, fittings and accessories once location has been established. All pipework and fittings connected to the tank should be supported to avoid strain on the fittings and tank wall. Insert a length of a flexible pipe to absorb shocks and movements of pipe fittings from the tank. Position the pipe directly onto the ground to avoid damage caused by standing over pipes.
Water tank stands can be used but must be designed by a qualified engineer.
Water storage tanks must not be used for underground installation unless supported by load bearing walls and full underground slab.
Cylindrical water storage tanks are designed for static applications (not for transport purposes) and are heavy when full. For transportation only use horizontal design tanks.
Always move the tank with care, only when it is completely empty and away from any construction material at site.
Do not climb or stand on the tank (especially during filling). The outer space of the tank can be slip-hazard
The tank structure and integrity of seals could be affected if the pipe work and fittings are not fully supported.
Although Makoro Tanks are extremely durable, improper handling and installation can result in damage to tank, fittings, and accessories. Failure to comply with handling and installation instructions voids all warranties.
At delivery, inspect your tank immediately for defects or shipping damage. Any discrepancies, or product problems, should be noted on the driver’s delivery note.
When unloading your tank from the delivery truck, avoid any contact with sharp objects. Forklift blades can cause significant damage if proper precautions are not taken. Do not allow tanks to be rolled over on the fittings. Keep unloading area free of rocks, sharp objects, and other materials that could damage the tank. If tank is unloaded on its side, carefully brace to prevent rolling
Support bottom of tank firmly and completely. Concrete pads provide the best foundation. However, if wind factors are not being considered for 1000 L tanks and smaller, compacted bed of sand, pea gravel, or fine soil that won’t wash away can be used. 2000 Litres up to 10000 litres tanks require a reinforced concrete base. Steel support stands normally concentrate the loaded tank weight onto the stand leg pads so It is recommended that stands are mounted on a concrete base. Bolting of stands is also necessary to prevent movement due to agitation, wind, and accidental contact. Platform gaps should not exceed 50mm.
Install tanks in an area that is accessible. Ease of maintenance and removal should be considered.
Vertical tanks are designed to be stationary and should be mounted on a level surface. Tank stands should be designed and approved by a qualified engineer.
Vertical Tanks have to be tied down before filling. Tank Connectors, fittings and pipes should be fully supported not to put any strain on the tank wall.
Test by filling tank with water prior to use, to prevent material loss through unsecured fittings, shipping damage, or manufacturing defects. Tanks should be tested for a minimum 5 hours
Plastic screw on bulkhead fittings are designed to be hand tightened. Over tightening can cause fittings to leak. Do not use steel fittings on the plastic tank connector as it may damage the threads.
Support sides of rectangular tanks. In general, tanks with heights greater than 500mm must be supported. However, specific applications must be considered: smaller tanks with contents that have high specific gravity and/or elevated temperatures must be supported
Do not mount heavy equipment on tank sides
Do not allow weight on tank fittings. Fully support pipes and valves.
Use expansion joints to prevent damage at fittings from the differential expansion and contraction of the piping and tanks.
Tanks are designed for use only in the atmospheric storage of chemicals, never for vacuum or pressure applications.
Immersion heaters should never touch the walls of the tank. Minimum spacing should be 75mm – 100mm from wall.
Protect tanks from impact, especially at temperatures below 4 degrees ˚C. Maximum liquid temperatures up to 50 ˚C
Confined spaces must be considered hazardous. Do not enter tank without first taking proper precautions
Tank sizes as listed are nominal and calibrations on moulded tanks are only approximates, but provide an indication of volume. Polyethylene tanks expand and contract which will affect the volume. The degree in which this occurs depends on the size of the tanks, wall thickness, specific gravity of contents, and temperature of contents and ambient temperatures.
