What material should the tank be made of?

Virgin food-grade polyethylene conforming to IS 10146 (Clause 3.1).

How can I verify a tank is suitable for drinking water?

It must be made of food-grade material, carry the ISI Mark, and be labelled 'For Drinking Water' (Clause 9.1).

What is the maximum capacity covered by this standard?

The standard covers tanks with a nominal capacity up to 10,000 litres (Clause 1.1).

Does the code specify a minimum wall thickness?

No, the standard does not mandate a specific wall thickness but requires the tank to pass performance tests like impact strength (Clause 6.4) and be free from defects (Clause 5.1).

IS 12701

: 1996

rotational moulded polyethene water storage tanks

CurrentEssentialSpecificationBIMMEP · Sanitary Appliances and Water Fittings

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This standard specifies the requirements for rotational moulded polyethylene (PE) water storage tanks up to 10,000 litres capacity. It covers material properties, construction, performance criteria like impact strength and reversion, and marking to ensure tanks are safe for storing drinking water.

rotational moulded polyethene water storage tanks

Quick Reference Values

Maximum Reversion5 percent

Maximum Overall Migration Limit60 mg/l

Impact Test Dart Mass12 kg

Impact Test Drop Height2 m

Maximum Capacity Covered10000 Litres

Practical Notes

Always ensure the tank has the ISI mark and a complete manufacturer's label as per Clause 9 before purchase.

Black tanks generally offer better UV resistance and prevent algae growth compared to lighter colors, though the code's primary requirement is opacity.

Installation requires a firm, flat, and level base that supports the entire bottom surface to prevent stress concentration and failure.