Short Answer:

RCC (Reinforced Cement Concrete) water tanks are strong, durable structures used to store water for domestic, industrial, or municipal use. These tanks are classified into different types based on their shape, position, and construction method, and they are designed to resist water pressure and environmental conditions.

The main types of RCC water tanks include underground tanks, ground-level tanks, overhead tanks, and they can be further shaped as circular, rectangular, spherical, or intze-type tanks. The choice of tank depends on water demand, space availability, and structural requirements.

Detailed Explanation

Types of RCC Water Tanks

RCC water tanks are essential components in any water supply system. They are made using reinforced concrete which provides both strength and water resistance. These tanks can store large quantities of water and are designed based on usage, location, and environmental factors. Depending on how and where they are built, RCC tanks are categorized into several types.

The two major classifications are:

• Based on location (position of the tank)
• Based on shape (form of the tank body)

Let’s understand each type in detail:

Based on Position

1. Underground RCC Water Tanks

• These are built below ground level and are used where overhead space is limited.
• Suitable for storage of large quantities of water.
• Require waterproofing and careful design to resist soil pressure.
• Commonly used in residential complexes, industries, and for fire-fighting reserves.

2. Ground-Level RCC Water Tanks

• These are constructed at or slightly above ground level.
• Easy to construct and maintain.
• Used for irrigation, treated water storage, and temporary storage needs.
• Less pressure head compared to overhead tanks.

3. Overhead RCC Water Tanks

• Constructed on columns or staging above the ground to supply water through gravity.
• Commonly used in cities and villages to maintain water pressure.
• Require careful structural design due to wind and seismic loads.
• Can be cylindrical, spherical, or intze-type in shape.

Based on Shape

1. Circular Water Tanks

• Most commonly used due to uniform distribution of pressure.
• Economical and easy to design.
• Suitable for all capacities and positions (underground or overhead).

2. Rectangular Water Tanks

• Used where space is restricted.
• More reinforcement required due to uneven pressure distribution.
• Common in small buildings or where land shape demands it.

3. Intze-Type Water Tanks

• A type of overhead circular tank with a conical dome and bottom.
• Designed for large capacities with economical material usage.
• Preferred in high-rise buildings and public utility systems.

4. Spherical Water Tanks

• Have uniform stress distribution but are difficult to construct.
• Used for aesthetic purposes or specialized designs.
• Rare in general building construction.

5. Conical or Bottom Sloped Tanks

• Used for storage of industrial or chemical liquids.
• Sloped bottoms help in easy draining and cleaning.

Other Classifications

1. Elevated Service Reservoirs (ESR)

• These are overhead tanks serving a large area.
• Include proper inlet, outlet, overflow, and scour pipes.

2. Sumps or Raw Water Reservoirs

• Ground or underground tanks for raw water before treatment.

3. Firefighting RCC Tanks

• Usually underground or ground level; hold emergency water reserves.

Conclusion

RCC water tanks come in various types such as underground, ground-level, and overhead tanks. They are also categorized by shapes like circular, rectangular, and intze-type depending on structural needs and space availability. The right type of RCC tank ensures efficient water storage, safe pressure management, and long service life.