The promise of steel
The growing awareness about the harmful effects of plastic containers over the past few years has changed the homebuyers' perception about overhead plastic water storage tanks. Research has showed that the most commonly used plastic storage tanks have carcinogenic and harmful health effects due to the presence of toxins and Bisphenol A (BPA). While BPA is added to plastic for increasing durability, it can lead to hormone imbalance, allergies and neuro problems. Besides this presence of phthalates and bacteria due to extreme temperature variations in overhead tanks also make the use of overhead tanks dangerous. These grave health concerns have led to the introduction of stainless steel water storage tanks in the market. Sahil Garg, Director, Purever Technix LLP, Gurgaon, whose group has having 15 years of experience in stainless steel fabrication and is currently into manufacturing stainless steel (SS) tanks in Haryana talks about how these tanks can be an answer to health concerns of users. Excerpts from an interaction:
What are the health hazards that plastic tanks can pose?
All across the world medical study found that plastics are harmful for humans as well as for environment. Plastic is manufactured by using a number of chemicals, which have abundant toxins that are harmful for humans. Extensive exposure of overhead tanks to sunlight dissolves these chemicals into water and these chemicals release toxins into water that is used in households. You can check this by opening your overhead tank on rooftop during afternoon time. You will be able to smell the harmful toxin gases being released from the tank. You can imagine what happens when all these chemical s enter your body through stored water. BPA traces and Phthalic acid are commonly found in plastic tanks. According to the medical news written by Christian NordQvist Bisphenol in plastics can cause male impotence, breast cancer, reproductive disorder, heart disease, and memory loss and brain disfuction.
Which grade of stainless steel is used in water storage tanks?
Two types of stainless steel grades are used in water storage tanks. One is food grade SS (304) and the other is surgical grade EU 4404. Stainless steel EU 4404 is a most hygienic surgical steel grade which is used extensively in biomedical implants like teeth braces, fixation device for fracture bone plates & other medical instruments while doing surgeries. We are using surgical grade EU 4404 for inner tank which is in direct contact with the water.
What is the average life of SS water tanks?
The average life of SS water tanks is 70-80 years almost same as that of surgical steel equipment. But until physically damaged these tanks don’t require replacement.
Are these easy to install?
The installation of SS water tanks is very easy. All types of universal plumbing equipments and accessories get along well with these tanks. These tanks are maintenance free and user friendly.
What is the average price and difference from plastic tanks?
Average price of EU 4404 stainless steel tank is Rs 40-50 per litre. Whereas plastic tanks cost Rs 8-Rs 16 per litre. Keeping life span and health benefits in mind, these tanks turn out to be much cheaper and are virtually maintenance free. Available in 500 to 5000 litre sizes, these tanks with dish shaped bottom doesn’t let water stagnant and all the sedimentary particles in water settle down.
How popular are stainless steel tanks in India at the moment?
The popularity of these is increasing as general awareness of people regarding hygiene and health is increasing. Now most of household avoid taking any risk about the health of family.
How many companies are manufacturing SS tanks in India?
In India at present only 5-6 companies are manufacturing stainless steel tanks. Purever is the only company located in Karnal, Haryana that is manufacturing these tanks. Due to general awareness about health and Hygiene among Indians is expecting growing demands of these tanks in Indian Market.
— As told to Geetu Vaid
Benefits of these tanks
1. High quality steel is high on hygiene basically because its passive film stability maintains the purity of water.
2. These tanks are non-toxic and rust free
3. The growth of bacteria, algae and molds is not accelerated in these tanks.
4. These tanks are sturdy and durable. There is no warping or wearing out of the tanks.
5. Easy to clean. The valve fitted at the bottom can be opened to clean the tank daily if required.
6. No effect of UV rays.
7. Resistant to oxidation
These tanks, however, need detailed and proper installation for being fully beneficial. The tanks should be installed on a flat paltform.
