IS 3370:1965 Part 1 is the Indian Standard (BIS) for concrete structures for storage of liquids - general requirements. This code lays down the general requirements for the materials, design, and construction of plain, reinforced, and prestressed concrete structures intended for the storage of liquids, primarily focusing on watertightness and durability.
Lays down general requirements for the design and construction of concrete structures for storage of liquids.
Overview
- Status
- Current
- Usage level
- Specialized
- Domain
- Structural Engineering — Tanks, Silos and Storage Structures
- Type
- Code of Practice
Also on InfraLens for IS 3370
Practical Notes
! The 1965 edition relies exclusively on the Working Stress Method, designing sections so that concrete on the liquid-retaining face does not crack.
! For modern design, this code has been superseded by the 2009 version, which shifted the minimum concrete grade from M20 to M30 and introduced Limit State design for crack width control.
! Correct selection and detailing of joints (expansion, contraction, sliding) with appropriate waterstops are often more critical for watertightness than structural thickness.
Frequently referenced clauses
reinforced concreteplain concreteprestressed concrete
International Equivalents
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Key Values3
Quick Reference Values
Minimum grade of concrete for reinforced structuresM 20
Minimum nominal cover to reinforcement25 mm or diameter of bar, whichever is greater
Maximum concrete tensile stress in bending (M20)17 kg/cm2 (1.7 N/mm2) for crack resistance
Tables & Referenced Sections
Key Tables
Table 1 - Permissible Stresses in Concrete (Calculations relating to Resistance to Cracking)
Table 2 - Permissible Stresses in Concrete (Calculations relating to Strength)
Table 3 - Permissible Stresses in Steel Reinforcement
Key Clauses
Clause 3 - Materials
Clause 4 - Joints in Liquid Retaining Structures
Clause 7 - Permissible Stresses in Concrete and Steel
Clause 8 - Design for Resistance to Cracking
Frequently Asked Questions3
What design philosophy is used in IS 3370:1965?+
It uses the Working Stress Method, keeping tensile stresses in concrete and steel extremely low to prevent cracking on the liquid face.
What is the minimum concrete grade allowed in this 1965 code?+
M20 is specified as the minimum grade for reinforced concrete liquid retaining structures.
Does this code cover storage of hot or corrosive liquids?+
No, it is intended for liquids at normal ambient temperatures. Corrosive liquids require special protective linings.
QA/QC Inspection Templates
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QA/QC templates coming soon for this code.