Gauteng-based structural steel product manufacturer Structa Technology has successfully undertaken, delivered and commissioned a 4.2 Mℓfire water tank project for state-owned power utility Eskom’s coal-fired Medupi power station. This is the largest tank manufactured in South Africa to date.
Structa Technology’s managing director, Hercules Rossouw, says the company is always extremely pleased to assist Eskom and the water industry with products and services that contribute to water storage solutions in South Africa and Africa. The scope of the company’s work included the design, manufacturing, material selection, corrosion protection, supply, delivery and erection of the tank. The tank, known as Prestank, is divided into two compartments of more than 2 Mℓeach and consists of 1 092 tank plates, with 35 000 M16 fasteners. Eskom and engineering company Lesedi Nuclear Services tested the tank in July 2012 for faulty pipe connections and leaks once each tank compartment had been filled. The tank was handed over on completion on time. The tank panels were fabricated at the Structa Technology factory in Meyerton, Gauteng, using a 1 300 t press and automated punching facilities. More about Structa Technology and Prestank:Structa Technology, a member of the Structa Group of Companies, is based in Meyerton, Gauteng, and manufactures electrical masts, utility poles, lighting masts and pressed steel water storage tanks known as Prestanks.
The company manufactures and supplies the pressed steel water tanks under the 40-year-old brand Prestank. Prestanks are hygienically safe, cost effective and a reliable way to store water for industrial or potable water storage. The Prestank may be used for various water storage applications from temporary or permanent installations at mines, power stations, building sites, hospitals, water affairs, municipalities, rural communities and agriculture. The tanks are fully customisable, high-quality water storage solutions that are manufactured according to SANS guidelines and meet South African Hot Dipped Galvanising requirements. There are many benefits ofchoosing a Prestank:- It facilitates construction of an infinite range of sizes and configurations to meet the specifications and needs of the client;handrails, walkways and lightning protection are just a few examples of the features available.
- The profile panel sections provide excellent strength properties and are structurally sound for storing water. The stand is designed strictly in accordance with SANS 10160and SANS 10162 for Structural Steel Work. Tanks mounted on steel towers above ground level have an aesthetically pleasing appearance.
- Another major advantage of the sectional tank design is that it makes logistics easier. Handling and transportation over long distances and to remote areas, regardless of the final dimensions of the assembled unit, is easily attainable.
- Assembly on-site is quickly achieved without the need for sophisticated tooling methods.
- Minimum maintenance is required because the galvanised steel panels resist weathering from the elements, while maintaining the integrity of the water within from contamination of most forms.
- Access to the water tank can be restricted by means of a lockable, ventilated access cover, providing safety and peace of mind to clients.
