FRP water tanks (glass fiber reinforced plastic water tanks) usually do not leak under normal production, installation and use, but whether they leak depends on multiple factors such as material quality, manufacturing process, installation specifications and post-maintenance. The following are possible causes of leakage and preventive measures:

Possible causes of leakage

• Manufacturing defects:

If there are bubbles, stratification or uneven resin curing during the production process, the local strength of the tank will be insufficient, and it may crack after long-term use.

The welds or joints are not fully bonded or sealed, which is prone to leakage.

• Improper installation:

The foundation is uneven or the support is not firm, resulting in uneven force on the water tank, local deformation and cracking.

The sealing rubber rings at the joints such as the inlet and outlet, flange, and manhole are not installed correctly, or the bolts are not evenly tightened.

• External force damage:

Collision or scratches on the tank during transportation or installation, causing hidden cracks.

Long-term exposure to over-design loads (such as top loading, earthquakes and other extreme situations).

• Aging or corrosion:

Long-term exposure to ultraviolet rays, high temperature or corrosive environment will cause the resin to age and reduce its strength.

If the medium in the water tank contains strong acid, strong alkali or organic solvent, it may corrode the FRP layer (special resin type needs to be selected according to the medium).

• Inadequate maintenance:

The inside of the water tank is not cleaned regularly, and the sediment compresses the tank or blocks the overflow pipe, causing the water level to rise abnormally.

Failure to take antifreeze measures in winter will cause internal ice expansion and cracking.

Measures to prevent water leakage

• Choose qualified products:

Purchase GRP water tanks that meet the standards to ensure that the raw materials (resin, fiberglass) and processes are reliable.

• Standardized installation:

Ensure that the foundation is flat (concrete foundation or channel steel bracket) and the bottom of the water tank is evenly stressed.

Use flexible joints when connecting pipes to reduce vibration transmission; use anti-aging rubber pads at the seal.

• Regular inspection and maintenance:

At least one comprehensive inspection per year: focus on checking whether there is leakage in welds, joints, flanges and other parts.

Clean the internal sediment to avoid local stress concentration; check whether the float valve and overflow pipe are working properly.

• Environmental adaptability treatment:

Outdoor water tanks need to be treated with UV protection coating; cold areas need to install insulation layer.

For corrosive media, choose chemically resistant resins (such as epoxy resin, vinyl ester resin).

• Avoid overload use:

It is forbidden to place heavy objects or climb on the top of the water tank; the water level should not exceed the design capacity.

Treatment methods after water leakage is found

• Small-scale leakage:

Clean the leaking part, polish the surface with sandpaper, and apply special fiberglass repair glue (such as epoxy resin + fiberglass cloth) to cure and repair.

• Large-scale cracking:

Contact the manufacturer or professional maintenance personnel to replace the damaged module locally or strengthen the whole.

• Interface leakage:

Replace the sealing rubber ring, re-tighten the bolts evenly, and use sealant to assist when necessary.

• Summary

The fiberglass water tank itself has the advantages of corrosion resistance and high strength. It is not easy to leak when used normally and properly maintained. The key is to choose high-quality products, standard installation and regular maintenance. If there is a leak, timely repair can extend the life of the water tank (generally designed life is 10 to 20 years).