Project Overview

Project Overview
 

Steel Dynamics recently partnered with a major customer in the water industry to process and supply stainless steel for the construction of water tanks and silos. These tanks and silos, designed for both sewer systems and fresh water storage, demanded high-quality materials capable of withstanding corrosive environments while ensuring long-term durability and safety.

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Steel Dynamics extensive stock holding of over 6,000 tonnes of stainless steel, all sourced from European suppliers, provided the ideal foundation for this project, which required precision, reliability and fast turnaround times.

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The water industry is characterised by stringent standards for materials. The tanks and silos involved in this project were essential for water treatment facilities that manage wastewater and fresh water for public utilities. After consultations with the customer, it was clear that 316L stainless steel would not only meet the performance demands but also offer the best longevity and cost-effectiveness for the water tanks and silos. This grade is particularly well-suited for water treatment applications, as it maintains its structural integrity and resists corrosion even in the presence of aggressive chemicals like chlorine, commonly used in water purification.

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The tanks and silos built for this project were sizable structures, with some tanks measuring up to 10 metres in height and silos designed for long-term storage of treated water or raw sewage. For fresh water applications, the tanks needed to ensure the purity of the water without introducing contaminants, while for sewer systems, the silos had to withstand the harsh conditions associated with wastewater. 

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The waterjet cutting process was especially advantageous for this project, as it allowed for precise cuts without generating heat, which can alter the properties of the stainless steel and potentially reduce its corrosion resistance. The UK’s largest 14m x 4m waterjet cutting machine was instrumental in cutting large stainless steel plates to precise specifications. 

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The finished water tanks and silos were designed for use by a major UK water board, where they would be deployed across various facilities to manage both fresh water and wastewater treatment. In particular, the tanks were earmarked for a water treatment plant that serves a large metropolitan area, where the storage and distribution of drinking water is critical to public health. The silos, on the other hand, were destined for a wastewater treatment facility where sewage is processed and treated before being released into the environment. 

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In addition to providing the materials, Steel Dynamics worked closely with the customer to ensure the cutting and processing of the stainless steel met the project’s exact specifications. Our ability to deliver large quantities of stainless steel, precisely cut to size, enabled the customer to complete the fabrication of the tanks and silos on time and within budget. 

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By leveraging our extensive experience and technological resources, Steel Dynamics played a key role in supporting the water board’s infrastructure, ensuring that both fresh water and wastewater were stored and processed in tanks and silos built to last. This case demonstrates how Steel Dynamics continues to set the standard for stainless steel supply and processing, particularly in industries where safety, reliability and performance are critical.